Consumer News » Uncategorized

There are huge numbers of nice salespeople out there, honest

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:41:46 +0000

At this time of year when we are battling our way around the shops making like Santa Claus, there is one dread that is in the back of all our minds that looms larger than things being out of stock. The thought of having to ask a Neanderthal sales assistant for help makes us shudder, and this is a reputation they have deservedly earned due to their lack of politeness, knowledge and their firm belief that the customer is never right.

The thing is that, without us even realising, the tide has changed and most salespeople know are now pleasant, personable and willing to do anything they can to help the weary customer. This is because no company wants to be known for their surely staff, and intensive in-house training now takes place to ensure that even the most miserable of souls has a smile at the ready and is extremely helpful.

In the majority of stores these days, the vacant expressions and vague wave of the hand in a general direction have long gone, and shopping is a much happier experience. There is also a point worth making that many will disagree with, but needs bearing in mind, when we have come home and moaned and groaned about the attitude of salespeople have any of you ever put yourself in their position?

When we go shopping we get agitated, fact, and these poor people have to stand there and be shouted at, abused and spoken to as if they are two year olds by ratty shoppers who aren’t prepared to look for stuff. While this is no excuse for bad manners, it’s not easy standing all day answering banal and ridiculous questions from customers who would try the patience of a saint.

Salespeople aren’t paid a fortune, and many are on minimum wage, and customers need to remember that they are doing their best and do a job that is, in the main, thoroughly thankless. While there are some miserable so and so’s out there, the majority are just like the rest off us, and if they have a bad day there is a reason for it.

So whilst we are more than likely to be greeted in the packed shops by happy, smiling people with big smiles on their faces, so try to keep a smile on your face and it will probably be returned by more enlightened modern shop staff.

Put your new C.V into practise with many sales Jobs at salestarget.co.uk

New high in UK fraud numbers In the UK reported fraud has reached a peak says...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Make it happen

admin — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:35:24 +0000

The Telegraph has teamed up with some inspirational speakers in a new mini-series of adverts titled ‘Make It Happen’ that are meant to build on their inspiring futures series. In the latest, Pete Cohen sits down with viewers for a few minutes to explain that if you want something you have to ‘make it happen’ for yourself otherwise you will never see the world around you change for the positive. Although the clip may be only two short minutes long, Cohen does manage to jam in plenty of thoughts that are worth pondering for a minute or two.

From the top, Cohen addresses the fact that it is much easier to stay in one place and never push for the future simply because it is easier to stay in one place. Anyone who has ever spent a Saturday on the couch due to lack of power can attest to this fact, but then he continues to say that most people are not going to get any satisfaction out of a life that always remains in one place. At the end of the Saturday on the couch most people can probably agree with this fact as well.

Instead, Cohen explains that the one thing that unites everyone throughout the human experience is the fact that they have problems, but it is how we choose to deal with our problems that makes us different and allows some people to truly ‘make it happen.’ He encourages those faced with problems to tell their goals and dreams to friends and family members so that they can help them get through the stumbling stones and closer to their goals because a life spent in process is always better than a life that is spent stagnant wishing for an unattainable goal.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

TEDxAmsterdam event Human Nature

admin — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:59:34 +0000

If you ask anyone what they are thinking about these days most likely they are going to start talking either about economic problems or technological gadgets that they want to get their hands on. In fact, one of the last topics you can expect to discuss with anyone is the state of the human experience, which is why TEDxAmsterdam has chosen the theme ‘human nature’ for their upcoming 2011 TEDxAmsterdam event in which they attempt to take a close look at just what it means to be human anymore in a world where human qualities are now downplayed and forgotten.

The conference is scheduled to take place on November 25^th and will be broadcast across Amsterdam to thousands of viewers and feature events, speakers, and of course enough audience participation to really make it worth viewing.

Also unique this year is the Ideas United Project created by WE ARE PI and some of the most creative people in the Netherlands that aims to show that there are plenty of ideas worth doing and spreading throughout the world to viewers. Focused on using the brain for good, the top creative talent in the nation has come together to create a two hour documentary that literally displays what the human brain is really capable of.

To better demonstrate this point, the team of thinkers and doers has created an actual ‘living brain’ with the help of 48 dancers from the Nova Dance College and the Dutch National Ballet that can now be seen online in a short video clip as a preview to the event. The fruit of their hard work is a large brain made out of actual living people exemplifying what can be done if you put your mind and effort into creating something unique out of thin air.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Hiking Tips: How to Stay Safe When Enjoying the Great Outdoors

admin — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:49:26 +0000

Advertising Feature

There is nothing as enjoyable and thrilling as being out in nature. It is important to give priority to your safety if you are undertaking a hike, whether in the UK or overseas. Follow our top tips on how to stay safe when enjoying the great outdoors.

Experienced hikers know far too well about the importance of ensuring they have protective clothing with them at all times, and avoiding elements such as falling rocks.

The only way for you to be aware of how to handle such situations is by researching different aspects of the wild and getting to know as many hiking tips as possible.

Strategize

Before setting out on your hike, the first thing you should do is know your hike and the type of terrain you will be dealing with. This information is quite easy to find. All you will be required to do is simply make use of a search engine and type the name of the destination or park where you will be going to – all the information you require will be right in front of you. Some of the information that you are likely to find will include; activities, tracks and contact details for the park rangers. It is also necessary for you to talk to a ranger before going for your hike and get as much information as you can about safety and any other issues.

Know Your Surroundings

Regardless of the location of your hike – be it in the Everglades or in the Brecon Beacons – it is important that you know your environment. The last thing anyone wants is to get injured while out on a hike.

Your knowledge of the terrain, weather conditions and a good pair of Hi-Tec walking boots may actually save your life. By knowing your environment, you will also be able to know which plants or animals to keep away from. Another important factor to study is being aware of the climatic condition of the place you will be going to for your hike. You can then plan accordingly depending on the weather, or plan for your hike during the best season.

Start Small

This is one of the most important hiking tips for beginners as it allows them to know the importance of hiking within a close proximity to their homes or base camp.

Clean Drinking Water

While out hiking, never fall into the temptation of drinking water straight from a lake or river regardless of how crystal clear the water maybe. The reason for this is because such waters often contain a large number of bacteria which will definitely end up making you sick. For this reason it is advisable to carry your own clean drinking water or a filter for the purpose of water purification.

Invest in Appropriate Equipment

The most important thing to do when undertaking any form of hike is to ensure that you have the appropriate equipment which is needed. This means that items such walking boots and a good Berghaus jacket will need to be purchased from reputable retailers. Individuals should always buy specialist equipment and should consider the different options provided by manufacturers. Outwell tents are a common brand and will offer individuals a range of options for all their outdoor needs.

Experiencing the Outdoors in Safety An Advertorial Feature Experiencing the outdoors is something which a...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Dressing for Job Interviews the Correct Way

admin — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:45:18 +0000

An Advertising Feature

For better or worse, when it comes to job interviews, knowing what to say is only half the battle. No matter how insightfully you can demonstrate the credentials that make you a perfect candidate, unless you also look the part, you’ll fail to make the best possible impact.

For that reason, it is vital to ensure you are immaculately turned out, although, as always, you should use your knowledge of the company to help you prepare. For example, if you happen to know that the working environment you are looking to join has a more casual dress code then you should bear this in mind for your interview.

Finding out how people are expected to dress in your desired role is just another part of the research you should do, along with what you can find out about the role at the job centre, plus your own online inquires.

As well as any specific tips you can find, there are some good general tips you can follow. One, which may come as a surprise to many, is to avoid wearing a black suit where possible. Experts feel that blue or grey suits will give you a more obviously business orientated look.

If you do go with black, it can be a good idea to set it off with a coloured, rather than a white shirt. The evidence seems to suggest that this will help to keep you lodged in your prospective employer’s mind, long after you’ve left the building.

Regardless of the colours you go for, make sure they compliment each other and are not gaudy. Furthermore, be absolutely sure to avoid mixing patterns. If your suit has a subtle pin stripe (which is perfectly acceptable) then by no means should you wear it with any shirt boasting a check design.

When it comes to ties, make sure you stay away from any novelty designs. A simple design that compliments your outfit is your best bet. Whilst, you can’t go wrong with silk, you could also consider a cotton tie if you think it fits with the ‘feel’ of the company. Once you’ve selected the one you want, a Windsor knot is the best way of fastening you tie.

Make sure your shoes are suitably formal, in a well polished black or brown. The devil is in the detail when it comes to putting together the perfect interview outfit, and you should always make the effort to select a belt that matches the colour of your shoes.

For the same reason, you need to make sure that everything that you are carrying with you is in keeping with the message you are looking to send with the rest of your attire. For example, if are you are planning on carrying your notes and CV along with you in a backpack, you should seriously consider investing a briefcase, which looks inestimably more professional.

Like wise, a little thing like carrying a cheap biro with you can really undermine the effect created by your other garments. With the jobs market as competitive as it is, it really is worth going the extra mile wherever possible.

Finally, take time to check yourself over before leaving the house, making sure you are neatly groomed. Generally, it is advisable to turn up for interview clean shaven. Some studies have shown that men with facial hair earn up to 25% less than their peers on average.

With your appearance talking care of, you can face your interview knowing that there’s no chance of the impression you make being let down by your clothes.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Importance of effective communication systems in customer service

admin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 09:38:19 +0000

Ring back, or ring tone advertising is on the rise, and it’s such a simple premise you wonder why nobody thought of it years ago. We all know what a ringtone is, those annoying beeps while we are waiting for the person we have called to answer the phone, so it really is the perfect opportunity to place an advert of jingle when you have the caller’s rapt attention.

There are some, obviously, who object to this, as they call it an intrusion, but it is no worse that TV programmes being interrupted at crucial points to bombard you with videos of people dancing around telling you which toilet rolls to use. There are even a few who have said that it could bring down the entire mobile phone market, they are probably those same purists that told us that computers were a flash in the pan!

Ring back advertising is extremely popular in Europe and is increasing quickly in India and Japan. The US has been a bit slow in catching onto the craze but they too are now grasping the concept and making moves to implement it. It is being targeted first at the pay as you go sector, and in return for listening to ads whenever you make a call you can get free minutes to use on your phone.

This seems to be win-win situation for all concerned, as the mobile providers sell the time to advertisers and then pass on the revenue to you through the free airtime you receive. With the cost of traditional advertising methods through the media rising all the time, companies are looking at other ways to get their message across, and ring back advertising seems very viable.

If you think how many calls are made every day on mobile phones, it’s little wonder that this form of advertising is the latest buzz in the marketing world. Experts reckon it can actually have more impact than a TV advert as many leave the room in the ad breaks to visit the bathroom or put the kettle on.

Even if you are multi-tasking and doing something else while waiting for your call to be answered, you are listening for the voice at the other end and thus will hear the ad or the jingle.

This service is one of a kind Advertising Feature When you travel around London it really does...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Used Car Worries? Understand MOT Checks To Feel More Confident

admin — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:07:09 +0000

Unless the car is less than 3 years old the chances are that if you buy a used car you will soon need to book an MOT. This can create a certain amount of apprehension considering the car isn’t new and you don’t know the full extent of its current state.

To help make the process of buying a second hand car easier it helpful to understand the components of an MOT check so you can conduct simple checks yourself to determine the quality of a vehicle. The following therefore is a very simple list of checks that are made.

Steering Wheel

The steering of your car is checked to make sure that the wheel is in good condition and attached securely to the shaft. The locking nuts and split pins are checked to ensure they are tight and also checked for any wear and tear. Sometimes checks will be made under the bonnet and car to ensure that swivel joints are in good working order and that steering racks are securely attached.

Seats & Seat Belts

Checks are made to ensure that seats are secure and are able to be moved easily through sliding them on the seat runners. Seat belts are checked to see if they are all in place and that the mechanisms are fitted correctly. The locking mechanism of the seat belt is also checked to ensure they are still in working order.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) & Number Plates

Introduced in 1954, the VIN is a unique number that belongs to a vehicle to help identify its legitimacy. Your cars VIN should be consistent and visible in all the intended places as well as match with the car database system.

Both your front and rear number plates should be visible and secure. Lettering and spacing should follow the law and so if in doubt you should check with the DVLA

strong>Bonnet, Boot & Doors

Simple checks are made on the bonnet, boot, and car doors to ensure that they can be opened and closed easily and above all securely. Car doors must be able to be opened from the inside as well as the outside.

Suspension & Tyres

Suspension joints are checked for any wear and tear and that they are secure. The springs are also inspected to see if they are in good condition and that the check absorbers are working as they should.

The condition of your tyres is checked to make sure there is no damage to them and that they are fitted to your car securely. The tread of the tyre is also inspected which needs to be 1.6mm all the way around the tyre.

Lights

All the lights on the car are checked to see if they work as they should. Dip and aim functions on side and front, and fog headlights are checked as well as the appropriate colour and positioning for brake lights, hazard and indicators. Number plate lights are also checked to see if they are working.

Body Condition

The overall condition of the car body work is assessed and checked against any corrosion especially around the brakes and steering which can be dangerous. Checks are also made to ensure there are no sharp protrusions which can be a danger to others.

Brakes

Checks are made on the inside and outside of the car to determine that brakes are in good order. The brake pedal and handbrake are checked inside the car to ensure they work as they should and the servo unit and master cylinder are checked under the bonnet to ensure there are no leaks. All pipes leading to and from the brakes both under the bonnet and the car as a whole are also checked against any corrosion. Lastly the discs and drums are checked against any wear and tear that could be dangerous.

Car Horn

Although this may seem trivial the car horn is checked to see if it works and if it is of the correct volume.

Exhaust, Fuel & Emissions

The exhaust is checked to see if it is still fitted securely and whether there are any leaks. Also noise levels are checked and if it is deemed excessively noisy then it can result in a fail.

The cars fuel cap and pipes are checked to ensure they are secure and that there are no leaks. To check that there is an appropriate output of carbon dioxide your car will also be analysed via a specialised piece of equipment.

Windscreen & Mirrors

This is an area where many people can fail as even the smallest obstruction can deem your car unsuitable. Windscreens are checked for any cracks and anything over 10mm that is near the driver’s line of site is treading on dangerous ground.

Mirrors are checked to ensure they are secure and that they are visible from the driver seat. The quality of the mirrors is also checked to ensure that you get a clear view of the road.

So that wraps up this simple list. Of course you won’t need to perform these checks yourself but it is always worth having these things at the back of your mind so that you are prepared. It is also worth noting that if you are looking to buy a used car then you should visit a proven car dealership who perform safety checks on all vehicles before they are put up for sale. The benefits of quality car dealerships are that they offer cheap car service meaning you can ensure the lifetime of your vehicle.

Bristol Street Motors are a UK wide dealership specialising in new and used cars in a multitude of different makes and models. For more information visit www.bristolstreet.co.uk

This is an advertorial feature.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Welsh Government warns elderly against doorstep scams

Alan — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:01:33 +0000

Carwyn Jones the Welch First Minister warned people to be on-guard against fraudulent scams that are focused on vulnerable and elderly people who are confined to their homes in order to steal their money.

Jones warning came following the cast of an elderly woman from Sully who lost over £270,000 of her life savings after it was taken from her by a criminal gang that claimed to have been working on her driveway.

The First Minister stated that he was shocked to hear the story of what happened to Anne Cornock and that that it is appalling that out of the gang members behind the crime only one person has been arrested.

He continued to say that sadly many other victims exist throughout Wales who have fallen prey to the same schemes. According to Jones, the crimes are focused on people that should feel secure in their homes but are defrauded by others who see honest and simply to be offering their services at a low price.

The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Ruth Marks, also said she was shocked to hear about Cornock and believes theft is not excusable under any circumstances. For this reason she welcomes the attention from the Welsh Assembly Government in order to help support older people that are being attacked by fraudsters.

In order to help, the Welsh Assembly Government has pledged £1.8m towards an initiative that will help tackle the crime issues that face older people. An additional £1.2m has been offered to 22 Community Safety Partnerships for a large range of initiatives.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.