Business

I watched a fascinating webinar last month, from musician Tiffany Ash, and she was discussing the need for businesses to invest in philanthropy. This is something which some businesses do, but not all are completely invested into supporting those around them, or indeed causes elsewhere. Tiffany was discussing in particular the need for businesses to both support, and spread the word about what they are supporting and why.

If you have a business and you are not currently investing in philanthropic missions, here is why you may look to give that a rethink.

Good for Business

Increasing your sales revenue through philanthropy should never be the sole reason for doing it, but we cannot ignore the fact that this is something which could be greatly beneficial to your business. Customers are looking to place their faith and loyalty and a company which shares their values with regards to helping others is certainly going to be attractive to them. Helping other causes is a great way to show your customers the values which the company has.

Inspiring Others

Something which you will certainly find about philanthropy is that it is extremely contagious and many businesses will follow suit once they see the good work that you are doing. Part of this is competition too, the idea that you can do better work than your competitors. This, despite how it sounds, is actually not a bad thing at all, because the more competition that there is, the better work and the more work that will be done.

Increase Employee Morale

Whilst you may not be aware of it, there is a high likelihood that your employees are do-gooders in their own right, and you can seriously increase morale when you decide to use the business to help others. Much like the customers, employees will feel far happier working with a business that is seeking to help others, and they will get engaged very quickly indeed. This will not just work well for your existing employees, it will also make your company a far more attractive place for new employees to work. This could help you to secure higher quality talent in the future.

Using Power For Good

Through the support from a business, rather than individuals, charitable causes can do so much more and they will have much more backing behind them. As businesses drive support they are able to do so with much more weight than an individual possibly could.

Community

It is not always easy for businesses to forge their way into the community. Thorough philanthropy and charitable work however, this is exactly what they are able to do and businesses can both join the community and bring it closer together. Many small business owners fail to recognize the power which they have in this regard.

This is why all small businesses should be looking to do all that they can to help support causes, both local and around the world.

 

As many candidates appear for the annual SBI Probationary Officers exam, it becomes challenging to drill down to the ideal candidate. This is where the SBI PO Cut Off score comes into play. SBI PO Cut off is the minimum qualifying mark required for candidates to qualify for the next round. This cut-off is decided by the State Bank of India Central Recruitment & Promotion Department.

SBI PO Cut Off score is designed to select the deserving candidates for the post of PO from the particular batch. For a candidate to qualify, the score should be equal to or greater than the cut-off marks as even a slight difference can affect a candidate’s selection.

An understanding of SBI PO Cut-offs is essential for candidates appearing for this bank exam as it will help them plan an effective strategy to achieve the set cut-off.

There is no sectional cut-off for the SBI PO exam as notified in 2018 by SBI. This cut-off varies from year to year and for candidates belonging to different categories. The exam conducting authority considers various factors that help determine the SBI PO Cut Off. Some of these factors are given below:

• Number of Vacancies

One of the critical factors which determine the SBI PO Cut off is the number of vacancies. When the number of vacancies is higher, the cut-off will be low, while when the number of vacancies is less, the cut-off will be higher.

• Number of Candidates

The total number of candidates appearing for this exam is another factor determining the cut-off of the exam. When the number of candidates appearing for this exam is high, the cut-off will be increased.

• The Difficulty Level of Exam

SBI PO Cut Off will also be decided depending on the difficulty level of questions in the exams. If the question paper is difficult, then the cut-off may not be very high. The examination authority considers the difficulty level of the set question paper to arrive at the right calculation basis.

• Performance of Candidates

If the candidates have performed well in the exam, the cut-off will go higher and vice versa. Depending on the performance of candidates, the examination authority creates a grading procedure to obtain the cut-offs.

• Previous Year’s Cut Off Trends

The previous year’s cut-off trends is another factor that will determine the SBI PO cut off. Also, the cut-off doesn’t need to increase every year. The cut-off will either be an increase or decrease of the previous year’s cut-off score. However, the previous year’s cut-off serves as a good indication and projection for the subsequent years’ cut-offs.

• Category of Candidates

The cut-off will be different for each category of candidates. These categories are General, SC, ST, OBC, and EWS. The number of candidates in each category will also influence the cut-offs for each category.

The various factors that affect the cut-offs are not the same for each year. The SBI PO cut-off is usually released along with the declaration of the SBI PO result. Candidates can check the cut-offs for the various rounds of SBI PO i.e., Preliminary exam, Mains exam, and the GD-PI, along with the results on the official website (sbi.co.in).

For candidates, it is mandatory to qualify for the cut-off score of the SBI PO Preliminary examination to appear for the SBI PO Mains examination. Similarly, candidates need to be eligible for SBI PO Mains cut off to qualify for the SBI PO recruitment process, which is the Group Discussion and Personal Interview.

While preparing the final list for recruitment, candidates’ performance in the SBI PO Mains exam is given more weightage, and preliminary exams are not considered. Candidates appearing for this bank exam can analyze the previous year’s cut-off to forecast the SBI PO Cut off for the upcoming exam.

Studies suggest that more than 50% of all cyberattacks that had happened in 2019, took place because of human errors. In other words, the end-users or touchpoints and their lack of action allowed spammers and hackers access into systems and processes.

For many companies, training their employees constitute one of the top strategies to boost cybersecurity infrastructure. If you feel that training employees about these measures are not important and simple software installation can do the trick, ask yourself one simple question-

‘Who is going to use, install and work with the cybersecurity software in the first place?’ Your answer would be your managers, team members, and other employees!

In this article, we are going to look at precisely this. We will look at why training your employees is essential when it comes to protecting against cyberattacks.

List of 5 Cybersecurity Areas that should be part of your Cybersecurity Training Programs

• Code Signing-

Can you remember how many downloads of files, folders, media, and software you have done in the past few months? Chances are you do not know who is the owner of the said file and whether it is genuine and does not carry any malware or ransomware.

Training employees to look for code signing allows them to verify the credibility of the software developer and maker. A credible software or file will always have the sign of its maker making it trustworthy.

• Removable Media-

USB Sticks, Memory Cards, Smartphones, CDs, DVDs, Floppy Disks are all examples of removable media. Human beings tend to pick up and plug-in removable media without first analyzing it for security purposes.

Employees need to be trained that whenever they plug in any removable media into their systems, they should first run a scan to find out whether it carries any malware or other dangerous components.

• Password Changes and Authentication-

123456, password, 111111, 123123…the list of the most common passwords goes on and on. Cyber experts also point out that the above-mentioned passwords took all of a few seconds to breach. Employees need to be trained on the importance of strong passwords.

This should include upper case and lower case characters. They should also include alpha-numeric special characters as well. The stronger the password, the lesser chances of it being breached.

• Training for Remote Work and WFH-

While businesses can ensure better cybersecurity measures at work, what happens when all employees and the business itself shift to a ‘Work From Home’ model? With the COVID-19 Pandemic raging, most businesses are now working remotely.

This means unsecured firewalls, public Wi-Fi systems, and more. Regular training sessions must be held so that employees working from home are trained on all the necessary security protocols.

• Social Media Use and Sharing-

Social media has become a fundamental part of our lives. From checking our Instagram, the first thing in the morning to using Facebook right before bed, we are using social media more than ever before.

This means that companies need to train and make their employees understand that they should have in place privacy settings on their profiles. This will prevent hackers from gaining access to crucial information that can be detrimental to the interests of a business.

The Bottom Line

Human error continues to be the number one reason for cyberattacks. Leaving any digital touchpoints unattended means that someone else can take advantage of your error. By following all the points in the article, you can ensure that your employees are up-to-date concerning cybersecurity measures.

Such training sessions must be done at regular intervals. This is because the nature of threats and attacks continues to become more sophisticated with every passing day. If you wish to know more about cybersecurity training or how to plan them, let us know in the comments below.

 

Brisbane, the capital of the Sunshine State, is experiencing a progressive economic and business environment. With many domestic and international businesses relocating or expanding into the Australian market, it has made Brisbane a hotspot for many new brands and companies.

With such an increase in competition, brands and businesses are coming up with different strategies to boost their visibility and stand out among the customers. And one such strategy is using promotional products.

The concept behind it is pretty simple. When your brand is easily recognisable, identifiable, and memorable, it can be a huge success. How does a simple cap or t-shirt with your brand’s logo impact the customers?

Here are six ways in which promotional products in Brisbane can elevate your brand’s visibility.

It Is Something People Like

Customers like to get promotional products, especially useful ones. According to PPAI, 75.4% of people keep the product around for more than a year because they are practically useful.

The objects solve a problem in their everyday life, be it cap or pens. The longer they stay around the more visibility for your business.

They Connect With the Potential Customers

Marketers in Brisbane and other parts of Australia spend around $2 billion (AUS) per year on promotional products. This is because all brands and companies want the consumers to be aware of their brand. Brands that use promotional products have a higher chance of staying on the customers’ minds.

It is said that nearly 50% of the customers who receive the promotional products Brisbane use it daily, and 52% of the brands receive a more positive response.

They Help Boost Sales

Businesses that use promotional products experience an increase in sales. According to the Australian Promotional Products Association, 52% of the people seemed to do business with the brand once they received the promotional products.

This shows that promotional products, any type it may be, inspire the customers to reach out and do business with you. Whenever they see your name on products like caps, umbrellas, cups, bags, t-shirts, they will naturally come to your company for business, thereby increasing your sales.

Creates a Good Impression

If you are starting your new brand in the Brisbane central business district, you must make a positive first impression on the consumers. When you give them promotional products or gifts that they will find unique and useful, it will create a good impression.

Free products are something everyone likes to get, so the products can take your brand to new people, increase your visibility and it will also ensure that it is in a positive light.

They Will Increase Your Reach

When you give promotional products to your customers, your brand’s advertising does not just stop there. Every time the customer uses the product, it is free advertisement and exposure for your brand.

Say it is a rainy day and your promotional product is an umbrella. If the customer is walking from Kangaroo Point to West End with the umbrella, it serves as a moving billboard for your brand from one area to another.

And when they use it repeatedly because of the product’s quality, there are high scopes for an increase in visibility for your brand.

Promotional Products Are Useful

Based on how useful the product is, it will increase the customer’s interaction with your brand. And that is why products like mugs and pens are an all-time favorite among marketers. Such gifts come in handy and are things which people use on a day-to-day basis.

Such products will always keep your brand in their sight. Your brand will be seen regularly for a long time, increasing their business interaction with you as well.

With the evolving business scene, promotional products in Brisbane not only helps with ROI but it also helps you develop a good and lasting relationship with your customers. This meaningful exchange is what makes a brand a success.

Many individuals are moved each year by a cause that motivates them to start a nonprofit to serve the community. Building and sustaining a charitable organization is not an easy task, however. To do this takes an incredible amount of passion, drive, and commitment. Starting a nonprofit is very similar to starting a business or corporation. The process requires paperwork, applications, and filings at the federal and state level. There are also numerous standard policies and procedures that all nonprofits will have to adhere to and implement.

Aside from this, promoting your cause and seeking out ways to support it will be the biggest step towards success. As nonprofits are fighting for survival, it’s more important than ever to engage donors and other stakeholders with causes that speak to them. With so many things going on in the world today, families and mothers have been the focus of many new nonprofits. Let’s take a look at how to start a nonprofit focused on moms.

Research

If you are looking to make an impact with families, new moms, grandmothers, or moms in general who might need help, starting a nonprofit might be the answer. Creating and building a nonprofit can be a significant challenge, however. Before you begin, it will be beneficial to do some market research to figure out if there is a need for your nonprofit and if there are other organizations in your area doing the same thing.

If you are interested in starting an organization aimed at motherhood and families, you might need to do some further research using a service like TrulyMama. TrulyMama can help you figure out the needs of expectant mothers, new moms, and anyone raising children. Researching the need in your area and the specific needs of your target demographic will help ensure the success of your nonprofit.

Engagement

Another key to running a successful nonprofit will be your engagement with the community. To do the most good for the moms and families in your community, you need to have a wide network of supporters. You can accomplish this with a strong p2p network (peer network). Peer-to-peer software platforms can offer customizable features, mobile and social media integration, training resources, and event management and registration. A strong p2p platform will help your nonprofit reach out to a wide range of people and keep your donors, team members, and others engaged.

Set-up

Once you have done the research and figured out ways to engage donors, you will need to set-up the nonprofit. Starting and building the organization is very similar to creating a business. First, you might need to contact lenders if you need to borrow money or apply for grants to get start-up financing. If you are investing in a good p2p operation, you can use this to help garner support for your start-up as well. Next, you will need to comply with all state and federal regulations for being a recognized charity.

This could mean that you draft bylaws, form a board of directors, and establish your tax-exempt status with the IRS. You might need to go through the IRS’s “organizational test,” as described in Publication 557. Once you have done all of the necessary steps and been approved, you will want to ensure that you maintain your certifications and registrations as a nonprofit. You will need a regular review process to ensure this.

The most important thing to keep in mind when starting up a nonprofit is the people that you are serving. Keeping the moms and families that you want to help in mind will help you as you jump through all of the hoops to start your organization. Nonprofits serve as the backbones of communities by helping those with the most need. Doing your research, engaging the community with a good p2p network, and following through on the required regulations will help ensure your success.

 

Introducing a new handbag into your wardrobe is one of the most joyful experiences you can have and one that all bag lovers always dream about.

While luxury handbags are often the most expensive items in your wardrobe, you can continue to build your collection by opting for pre-loved designer handbags that are often sold for up to 70% less than the original price. Not to mention that you can also opt to sell designer bags that you already have in your wardrobe to make space (and save money) for new ones.

In fact, opting to buy and sell designer handbags is one of the most effective strategies for creating the closet of your dreams.

If this is the year when you’ll significantly enhance your luxury handbag collection, keep reading to learn the dos and don’ts of buying and selling designer handbags.

DO: Plenty of research.

Before you buy or sell a designer handbag, you first want to make sure you are conducting the necessary research. Before you decide to purchase a pre-loved luxury handbag, make sure you have read plenty of reviews of the item you are interested in, as this will give you a better idea of its longevity and functionality.

For those who don’t currently have a specific bag in mind, start by researching different styles, brands, and materials. By opening yourself up to the various options on the market, you will discover which ones are right for you.

If you are looking to sell a bag, research what other similar bags have recently sold for in order to get an idea of what your resale range may be. In some instances, you may not be happy with the price range you see. If this is the case, you might consider it best to put it back in your closet and wait for that specific style and brand to come into fashion.

It is highly suggested that you partner with a leading marketplace that specialises in selling pre-loved luxury bags to ensure that you get the highest price possible.

DON’T: Purchase designer handbags you don’t love.

In order to curate your dream handbag collection, you want to avoid purchasing designer handbags that aren’t exactly what you are looking for and instead be patient until the perfect one comes along.

After all, you want to ensure that you love your new bag and that you are actually going to use it. While that may mean you have to spend more money, it will be worth it when you have a bag you use regularly, and that makes you feel your best when you carry it.

Even if it seems like a good deal, don’t make an investment unless you are madly in love with it – particularly if it is one of your first designer bags. Instead, save your money and wait patiently for your dream secondhand bag. You should never be settling when it comes to bags (and all other aspects of life).

DO: Consider the resale value.

When purchasing luxury handbags, you also want to consider the resale value of the item. While you want to buy bags that you intend to wear forever, the truth is that handbags are investment pieces and can be purchased and sold throughout your style journey.

Once you own a luxury handbag, there are a few steps you can take to maximise their resale value. First and foremost, the most important thing you can do is to keep your bag in the best condition possible.

The better the condition of your bag, the more money you will make. For example, an individual can usually sell a classic Chanel or Hermès bag in very good condition for around 80 per cent of its original price. In comparison, the same styles in pristine condition are often sold for 120 per cent of the original price.

Thus, it is crucial to recognise that the value of luxury handbags fluctuates based on trends; however, some designers and styles not only maintain their resale value but increase it over time.

These include the Hermès Birkin, the Hermès Kelly, the Chanel Classic Flap Bag, the Chanel Boy Bag, and the Louis Vuitton Neverfull. You can never go wrong with investing in one of these bags.

DON’T: Endeavour to buy or sell luxury designer bags on your own.

Whether you are purchasing your first secondhand luxury designer bag or selling your tenth, you don’t want to do the process independently. Instead, your best option is to work with a leading marketplace that specialises in the buying, selling, and swapping of pre-loved luxury bags.

By working with a trusted business, such as Luxury Promise, you can be assured that you are avoiding unscrupulous sellers or buyers, and that your purchase, sale, or swap is trustworthy and authentic.

Our goal is to support the global community in the movement towards sustainable shopping and help shoppers curate the luxury pre-loved handbag collection of their dreams.

DO: Consider trading handbags.

Opting to trade designer handbags is one of the best ways to bring a new luxury piece into your wardrobe, plus everyone involved gets a new bag they love!

Similar to when you sell through a luxury marketplace, when you trade your luxury handbags, you either post the item to us or bring it into the shop. From there, experts will inspect and authenticate the bag and then provide you with a final offer.

Next, you get to decide which bag from the collection you want (which is usually the most challenging part of the process!). Then, you can take your new-to-you bag home and introduce it to the rest of your wardrobe, feeling good that your previous bag is also going to a new loving home.

Have you ever bought, sold, or swapped a pre-loved handbag? If so, what was your experience? Any additional tips to add to this list? If not, is it something you are interested in doing this year? Which bag or designer would be at the top of your wishlist?

Let us know your thoughts and any other insights you have in the comments below!