Y'all ever wonder why some people seem to have such a hard time finding gainful employment? Well, after reading this column you may better understand some of the reasons why. This week I'm going to share some actual comments from selected employment applications that have been submitted to some of the companies that I've worked for in the past. Y'all might think that I'm kidding or exaggerating, but I swear on a stack of Elvis CDs that the...more
When it comes to American spending habits, the sad truth is that most people don't put their financial assets to the best use. One of the greatest examples of this is the home mortgage. Surprisingly, most people fail to educate themselves about the dangers and the pitfalls of not shopping for the best mortgage. Worst still, many have not taken advantage of low interest rates that could save them hundreds of dollars a month.In addition to saving...more
The number one etiquette tip for interviews is writing a thank-you letter. This is not a tool commonly used by job seekers right now. If you are looking for an advantage and a way to stick out above the other job applicants then follow up your interview by showing appreciation and courtesy.The letter should be written and sent within 24 hours of your interview and sent to all people who either interviewed you or helped you out in the process. If it is not appropriate to send a letter to everyone who was involved with your interview, then just send one to the highest-ranking interviewer. Writing to the employer is another way to showcase skills and competency in communication and your career. Make sure your letter is understandable, easy to read and professional yet personal. Now that you have met the person or people you are writing to it is okay to include some personalization. The letter format should include the following: First, express your sincere appreciation for the interview. Second, reemphasize your best qualifications for the position requirements. Third, reiterate your enthusiasm and interest in the job. At this time you may want to offer additional information...more
Discussing life insurance with your spouse is sometimes a difficult conversation. But it's a conversation that should happen. The average American woman is widowed by age 56 and nearly 85% of the elderly poor in the nation are female. Many women aren't prepared for this life event - emotionally or financially.Replacement of income is one of the...more
As your home appreciates in value, you gain equity. You can look at this equity, as a portion of the value of your home, which becomes an asset that is not burdened by debt. Therefore, this is a critical financial vehicle that cannot be ignored. Let me say it another way. For most of us, your home Equity is likely to be, the primary,...more
Real Estate Agents play an essential, critical role in the process of buying and selling a home. You just simply cannot afford to work with an agent that does not exhibit top-scale professional values. We're talking about your primary investment, and the happiness of you and your loved ones.Here are the 3, most important things that I've encountered, that I believe contribute towards excellence in the profession of Real Estate agents. To Serve To Know To Listen1. To Serve: Real Estate is a service business, and homeowners and buyers must be treated with the respect that they deserve. A Real Estate Agent must demonstrate that they care about you, and that their primary concern is to serve your needs, and not their own. Look for agents that carry cell phones everywhere they go, and that have no problem taking late night calls, or being interrupted during a Saturday morning snooze. This isn't a rib of steak you're buying (or selling). It is more important than everything and anything, and it can be a stressful, anxious process to go through. Customers deserve a confidant, and to be treated with the utmost of care. Avoid agents that think they know everything. Seek out agents yearning...more
The quest is on! You're in the market for a new home loan, a refinance, or a consolidation and you absolutely insist on finding the lowest rate possible! So what better place to do your research, then here on the internet, late at night, with your...more
Many people fret the rising tide of interest rates. You'll hear things like, "Did I miss the boat? Is it too expensive now to buy a home? How can I afford the house of my dreams? Maybe I should wait! Maybe I should just rent for a while! Maybe the...more
Woolen jackets, paper rolls, light up teddy bears, clocks and DVDs - there is tremendous potential to make a very good profit from all of these products and countless others just by knowing the basics of one of the worlds oldest trades.Importing &...more
Any time you make changes in your life you are going to be met with opposition from people who would prefer you to stay exactly as you are. Sadly, these people are often the ones that love you the most; your family, friends, partners and even work...more
What do you do when fear shows up? Do you hide under the covers of life, shivering as you anxiously wait for the moment to pass or do you stand up with a confident smile and embrace it? Your answer to this simple question will have a considerable...more
There are two different types of personal bankruptcy that an individual can file, Chapter 7 & Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to disburse of most or all of your debts at the time of the court ruling. This method, however, has more of a negative...more