4 mistakes to avoid when buying pickup trucks
auto

4 mistakes to avoid when buying pickup trucks

Who isn’t excited at the prospect of buying a new vehicle, especially one as powerful and multi-faceted as a pickup truck? With so many types, brands, and configurations available on the market, choosing the right pickup truck can feel overwhelming, particularly for first-time buyers. To simplify this experience, here is a list of four common mistakes people make when buying a pickup truck and how to steer clear of them. Failing to understand what one needs Don’t be in a hurry to run to the dealership to finalize that purchase. Instead, take time to outline some requirements, such as a list of key features, capabilities, and highlights that the truck must have. Also, when looking for the ideal truck, consider its size, engine, payload capacity, and towing abilities to suit one’s needs. For example, those planning to use the truck for business may want to look for an option with a higher towing or hauling capacity, while families may want one with comfortable interiors, a longer bed for camping and adventures, and a plethora of safety features. Forgetting the total cost of ownership The base MSRP is only the starting point when it comes to buying a pickup truck. To get a better idea of the overall cost of ownership, there are many other factors to consider when buying a new truck, such as insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repairs.
5 errors to avoid when checking blood pressure at home
health

5 errors to avoid when checking blood pressure at home

Blood pressure measurement is the most common test carried out at a physician’s office. However, sometimes, one may be asked to take the readings at home to allow them to continue with work and other commitments while recording the measurement in real time to keep an eye on drastic fluctuations. As this process is highly prone to errors, here are mistakes cardiologists want one to stop making while taking blood pressure readings at home: 1. Testing with a full bladder A full bladder may exert pressure on the kidneys, making them respond in a way that raises blood pressure by 10 to 15 points. So, going to the bathroom 20 to 30 minutes beforehand could help get more accurate readings. 2. Incorrect posture Keeping the legs crossed and slouching while taking a reading could compress the arteries in the legs and restrict blood flow, resulting in an irregularly high blood pressure reading. So, one should sit upright and place the machine on a flat surface like a kitchen or dining table before measuring blood pressure. Further, the feet should be on the floor, and the arm should rest at the heart level, i.e., on the table or the arm of the chair.
4 online money-making scams to watch out for
Internet

4 online money-making scams to watch out for

The internet has opened up a floodgate of money-making opportunities. These avenues have helped millions of people to make a big buck on the side. But they often require people to invest time, energy, and some skills to reap genuine results. On the flip side, there are several online hacks that promise income but have proven to be fraudulent. To avoid getting exploited or duped, it’s best to be cautious of these scams: Pyramid marketing schemes A pyramid marketing scheme basically asks individuals to join a program and recruit their friends and family to earn a commission through their investments or purchases. One should be cautious of any scheme that requires people to hire new members to make a profit. Work-from-home scams While many recognized companies offer work-from-home job opportunities, not all those who reach out can be trustworthy. Any pop-up ad or unsolicited messages on social media or email that promise such an opportunity should be avoided. Those who apply to these opportunities and get an interview call should be cautious if the company refuses to delve into details about their operations and location and mandates sharing information like driver’s license or bank account details first. Similarly, avoid any requests to pay money for remote work opportunities or “training” sessions.
3 common banking scams and how to avoid them
Everything Else

3 common banking scams and how to avoid them

According to data by the Federal Trade Commission, banking scams have increased by 70% between 2020 and 2021. Although bank security and technology have been rapidly evolving to keep accounts safe, this unprecedented rise in crimes is a matter of concern. Staying aware of some frequently reported frauds can help one steer clear of them and keep their money safe. Here are three of the most common banking scams and how to avoid them. Phishing scams Unfortunately, with the boom in online banking, there has also been a rise in online phishing scams. Here, the scammer sends a message or an email that looks like it is from the bank. These messages ask for immediate action and dangle the threat of account closure. They may also include a link to a website designed to look like the bank’s official website, but it is actually a front for gaining access to one’s account information. With access to this information, scammers and fraudsters can withdraw funds from any account. To avoid these scams, individuals must exercise extreme caution when opening messages received from unknown sources. If in doubt, double-check with the bank before clicking on any links. Automatic debit scams When scammers gain access to one’s banking information (including the account and routing number), they can set up routine, automatic payments to themselves in the same way that payments for subscription services are debited.
6 common coupon codes that brands offer
shopping

6 common coupon codes that brands offer

When one does not feel like stepping out, online shopping can also be therapeutic. Many online retail platforms offer coupon codes to users, helping them save up while shopping. These codes may be seasonal or apply if the items in one’s cart total a certain amount. Sometimes, those shopping from a website for the first time may also be eligible for coupon codes. Here are some common coupon codes brands use: WELCOME The “WELCOME” code is for customers shopping on an ecommerce site for the first time. This code has many variations, such as WELCOME + year (e.g., WELCOME2024) or WELCOME + the discount percentage (e.g., WELCOME20). Coupon codes for occasions Websites may also offer discounts for occasions like Easter and Christmas, with a coupon code for each. “NEWYEAR,” “CHRISTMAS,” and “EASTER” are some of these coupon codes for occasions. Sometimes, brands get creative with these codes, like having the code “JINGLE” for Christmas. Shopping season codes Shopping seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer huge discounts to shoppers. Discount codes for these seasons are the cherries on the cake. Besides the general “BLACKFRIDAY” and “CYBERMONDAY” codes, brands may also have these codes followed by the year (e.g., BLACKFRIDAY2023).
5 mistakes to avoid while paying off debt
finance

5 mistakes to avoid while paying off debt

Climbing out of financial debt does not have to be difficult if one handles their resources and spending well. To do this, it is important to set realistic goals and expectations while also ensuring that they align with the current financial situation. Some mistakes, however, can complicate and prolong the debt repayment process. Here are five such mistakes to avoid so that one can achieve financial freedom sooner rather than later: 1. Not adjusting expenses One way to lower the ratio of debt to savings is to change spending habits. For example, one can consider preparing food at home rather than dining out, using cash instead of credit cards, avoiding unnecessary expenses, or splitting rent. While these changes may seem insignificant, they can help speed up debt repayment. 2. Tampering with the retirement plan Some retirement plans like 401(k) allow investors to withdraw money prematurely from the account. This might tempt one to use this money to pay off debt, but it is not a wise move. Early withdrawals come with penalties, and the purpose of the account is to secure life after retirement. Further, the investment here grows steadily, so the longer the money stays in the account, the better the returns.
Top 4 mistakes to avoid while using food delivery services
services

Top 4 mistakes to avoid while using food delivery services

Food delivery services are growing exponentially, thanks to people’s changing preferences and fast-paced lifestyles. Customers can now order via two sources: restaurants that offer their own delivery and third-party platforms that act as a mediator to connect consumers with local restaurants. Both operate online and are pretty straightforward. However, some mistakes on the part of consumers can lead to financial losses or health issues. Here are a few such mistakes to avoid. Not evaluating a delivery service thoroughly One should consider several factors before zeroing on a third-party delivery service or restaurant. For instance, one should evaluate their packaging, safety measures (to avoid food contamination), cost-effectiveness, customer service, refund policies, food tracking options, and reputation. Reading through online reviews of other customers who have already used a platform can give an idea about its service and credibility. Ordering only when hungry There are a few issues with this approach. One may end up making the wrong food choices in a hurry and experience frustration or impatience until the food arrives. Ordering at the last minute also means one may not eat when hungry, leading to loss of appetite when the food actually gets delivered. Not eating when hungry can also increase the production of cortisol in the body, causing stress.
3 mistakes to avoid when opening a savings account
finance

3 mistakes to avoid when opening a savings account

A lot of hard work goes into saving money. It takes extensive planning, budgeting, and mindful spending. So, it is crucial that people put their money in the right savings account. Having a savings account is a great way of earning interest and moving faster towards one’s financial goal. However, people tend to make mistakes when selecting a savings account. Here are three mistakes to avoid while opening a savings account. Not shopping around It is always necessary to shop around for the kind of interest, perks, and security each bank or other financial organization has to offer. Avoid investing in the first one that catches the eye. Compare multiple savings accounts from different places to arrive at the right choice. Also, keep an eye on the fees, customer service, accessibility, interest rate, and any additional benefits. This research can go a long way in helping make the right decision. Only focusing on the interest There are times when people select a savings account that comes with an attractive interest rate. But later on, it could cost them in terms of fees for the account. While some savings accounts demand a one-time fee, others come with the caveat of an annual charge.
4 common mistakes to avoid with a debit card
finance

4 common mistakes to avoid with a debit card

Debit cards are a common and convenient form of payment. They are a hassle-free and stress-free payment method and do not require loans or credits. People who are not fond of digital transactions can turn to debit cards for their needs. But before going down that path, it is essential to learn about the safe practices of using a debit card. One should avoid these common debit card mistakes for safe use. 1. Failing to check hidden fees Debit cards are associated with an existing bank account and usually do not carry any fees. However, some banks might add annual fees to the discussion. People need to ensure that the card they select does not carry any additional charges. Thoroughly read any paperwork before signing up for the card, and ensure no other hidden terms or fees exist. 2. Not having a plan Make sure to plan out expenses. Try segregating purchases and expenses based on the perks of using a debit card. People with more than one debit card can find this rewarding, as it can maximize their savings and rewards. For instance, customers planning to make a substantial purchase that they may have to return, should use credit cards instead of debit cards.
3 mistakes to avoid when choosing buy now pay later
Everything Else

3 mistakes to avoid when choosing buy now pay later

Buy now pay later, also called BNPL, is a convenient way for individuals to purchase items at the moment and pay for them gradually. This method of paying has become quite popular, especially for expensive electronics, as it allows one to get their dream device without feeling overburdened with its cost. It is paramount to be cautious when dealing with credit. Therefore, when opting for BNPL, it is necessary to avoid certain errors, such as: Ignoring the terms and conditions Many people find reading terms and conditions to be a tedious task. However, when it comes to money, ignoring them can be a costly mistake. This is especially true for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) purchases. It is essential to carefully review all the plan details before agreeing. For example, if buying a phone, one should read the plan and understand what will be required to pay, how many installments to make, and what happens upon missing a payment. One should know several other important details before signing up for a BNPL plan. Missing payments One does not necessarily miss payment deadlines on purpose. It could happen due to several reasons, like busy schedules. However, if one forgets to pay or misses a deadline, the receiving company may charge late payment fees.

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Top 8 employee evaluation software for your business
software

Top 8 employee evaluation software for your business

One of the toughest tasks for any organization is the process of evaluating its employees every year to determine their performance. This where an employee evaluation software can make the process simpler and more systematic for the Human Resources (HR) department. Here’s is a list of the best software providers for employee assessment. BambooHR It is a human resources information system that makes the role of the HR team more effective. This cloud-based software offers a great range of employee information management options, which will help to keep an eye on their performance. This is an affordable software and ideal for small and medium-sized businesses. Engagedly When it comes to employee evaluation, today’s business needs a modern approach, and that is exactly what this employee evaluation software offers. It engages employees in the process of performance evaluation, making it possible for the system to be more simplified and save a lot of time. UltiPro This Cloud-based software offers a range of amazing features that make employee evaluation more effective. UltiPro comes with features like feedback, compensation management, evaluation history, development plans for individual employees, rating scale with customization options, on-going tracking of performance, goal-setting, skill assessment, and peer appraisal. Workday This employee evaluation software helps with the growth of your business by offering more insight into the workforce.
Top 3 Android smartphones for business
smartphone

Top 3 Android smartphones for business

An ideal smartphone for business is one that pleases you, delivers phenomenal value for the money, and on-the-go processing capabilities. It might not be easy for you to judge the usability of the handset simply by browsing the Internet. So, to help you, we have come up with a list of some of the best android smartphones that you can invest in right away. A good business smartphone is one that is capable of running all the latest apps that can help you with your business. So, from helping you connect with your business phone service to privacy services and PDF apps, a good business smartphone is capable of doing it all. Blackberry Key 2 Blackberry might not be the number one in the smartphone market, but the company still develops some of the finest business smartphones. Blackberry Key 2 is an Android run smartphone that was marketed as “an icon reborn,” primarily because Blackberry retained its classic keyword but improved it by adding a speed key button and increasing the size of the keys by 20%. Features of Blackberry Key 2 Long battery life, lasting you two days Qualcomm 660 processor A newer larger and more intelligent keyboard BlackBerry DTEK app that makes it incredibly secure Photos and files can be secured with the BlackBerry Locker The option of storage space of 64 GB and 256 GB 6 GB RAM Samsung Galaxy S20 If you need the best android smartphone that’s great for your business and is affordable at the same time, this 5G phone from Samsung should be your preferred choice.
A quick look at the iPhone X series models
software

A quick look at the iPhone X series models

The iPhone brand has been the father of smartphones since its inception. The first iPhone was introduced by Steve Jobs in 2007, which changed the game for smartphones with its multi-touch and camera capabilities. Since then, there’s no stopping Apple. In 2017, on its 10th Anniversary, Apple revamped the game again with the introduction of the iPhone X. This revolutionary iPhone paved the way for subsequent future iPhones as well, let’s have a look.   iPhone X This was the first iPhone in which the Home Button was replaced by clever software gestures. It had a 5.8-inch edge-to-edge high-resolution OLED display panel a better notch-superior than the previous generation’s LCD panel. The advantage of OLED is that color reproduction is way better, and it is certainly more power-efficient than the past models. As for the security, Apple ditched Touch ID and replaced it with the new biometric, Face ID. The front selfie camera, that was embedded in the notch of the iPhone X, was an added style plus. It created a 3D model of the user and worked in low-light with an infrared camera. In this model, there were two camera sensors on the rear with one telephoto lens and one wide lens.
Top destination travel options in Asia
travel

Top destination travel options in Asia

Asia is a beautiful continent and is home to some of the most exciting destination travel options. With so many exquisite countries to visit, the task of picking the best once can be a bit overwhelming. Well, fret not! Given the availability of affordable flights in-between prime hubs of Asia, you can certainly visit a couple of top destinations in Asia on a single trip. You can pick any one of the listed destinations below for your next destination travel trip. Chiang Mai, Thailand A lot of travelers visiting Thailand prefer its northern capital over Bangkok. The Old City of Chiang Mai is bustling with tourist activity all year round. The most beautiful thing that you’ll witness here is the welcoming and calming smile of monks. Happening night markets, a multitude of cultural festivals, beautiful temples, and sprawling mountains for trekking– Chiang Mai has something for every type of traveler. Every year the city gets a footfall of more than a million travelers that leave the destination enriched with hope and satisfaction. When in Chiang Mia, make sure that you take a tour of the magnificent riverside village, Pai, which is located only a few hours north of the city. Penang, Malaysia If you are looking for a destination travel trip where you can relax, unwind, and experience mouth-watering cuisine, then Penang in Malaysia is the right destination for you.
Top payroll software for small businesses
software

Top payroll software for small businesses

If you run a small business, payroll software can help you manage all the particulars and activities regarding your employee workforce. If you have 50 to 100 employees, it can get a little difficult to keep track of all the payslips, tax files, and other important employee details. That’s where payroll software for small businesses come in. Let’s look at the top software options you can choose from: Gusto Hailed as one of the best payroll software for small businesses, Gusto offers a comprehensive system with intuitive software that can help you handle a variety of employee-related matters. These include employee pay stubs and tax forms, benefits and payroll reports, health insurance, state and federal unemployment insurance, PTO tracking, direct deposit facilities, wage garnishments, automated tax filings, and unlimited payroll runs in all 50 states. The interface is easy-to-use, and the brand offers a free demo as well. Unlike other software, Gusto does not charge extra for features like automated billing, health benefits, online estimates, and workers’ compensation. ADP This software can take HR and payroll off your hands, easing your burden if you’re managing a small business. It handles all the time-consuming tasks for you, ranging from managing employees’ 401(k) accounts to filing payroll taxes, and it also takes over tasks like onboarding, hiring, and recruiting.
Business class flights and its features
travel

Business class flights and its features

All of us have daydreamed about traveling business class when we make a steady shuffle from business class to economy. Yes, it lures us with its spacious cabins, and luxe and cushy comforts. So, is it worth flying in a first-class or business class flight? Let’s discuss some of the best business class flight features that will prove that it is worth every penny. Priority check-in For travelers traveling business class, the check-in process is a lot more convenient and easier. You don’t need to stand in the long queue to finish your check-in procedure. Go ahead and sit down at the waiting room seat while the staff handles the check-in for you. Extra baggage allowed Now, this completely depends on the policy of the airline. However, irrespective of the airline you are traveling with, the permissible baggage allowance for a business class is certainly more than economy class travelers. So, if you are a shopaholic, it could be a huge plus. Access to the special lounge Ahead of the boarding time, business class travelers can wait in the exclusive lounge dedicated to them. Again, it might vary from airline to airline and airport to airport, but in most lounges across the globe, you’ll get scrumptious snacks and food.