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The Full Picture: What they didn’t tell you

The Full Picture: What they didn’t tell you 

The news and contemporary media can be a great source of information on global events, politics, weather and sports. But the mainstream news can often be bias, pushing some happenings more than others, focusing on some topics heavily and neglecting others. 

Here at MoneyMagpie, we believe in the importance of sharing the latest that many mainstream outlets may have failed to, or deliberately chose not to, cover. 

Every week, we’ll be rounding up some of the top stories that you may have missed.

Salaries being recalled by banks 

HR Businesses Partner Wes Griffiths posted the following on LinkedIn just yesterday:

 

The comments show many other people employees at automotive intelligence firm Wejo were facing the same confusion. After the firm entered a notice to enter administration earlier this week, it appears wages have been recalled after they landed in bank accounts at the end of the month as usual. 

Although it seemed to only be banks HSBC and First Direct affected, other high street banks have also started to recall wages. According to Prolific North, several staff suggested they have been forced into unauthorised overdraft or missed payments due to the unexpected withdrawal of funds.  

You can read more on this story here. 

What’s going on in East Palestine, Ohio? 

In February of this year, huge fires occurred in East Palestine, Ohio, in the US, after a 38-carriage train carrying chemicals derailed. Five of the cars were carrying vinyl chloride, a substance that becomes hugely toxic when burned. 

Clean-up crews were forced to burn more toxic fumes even after the crash to avoid explosions. The crash is thought to have left as many as 45,000 animals dead, and the town’s residents left with respiratory issues and skin irritation. 

But now, townsfolk are furious that this was ever allowed to happen, why people are not told of trains carrying dangerous chemicals are passing through their towns, and many suggesting officials are lying about their safety. 

News recently broke that in the first instance, frantic members of the public who called emergency services were told by officials not to evacuate. A huge number of people were told the train was simply carrying alcohol – not dangerous gases with links to liver cancer. 

bank accounts

The crash site. Source: EPA

According to The Daily Mail, when one grandmother desperately called the fire department, a dispatcher told her: ‘They’re not evacuating anymore, you’re good’. Although some residents very close to the crash site were ordered to evacuate in case of an explosion, those further away were told they were safe. 

Greg Mascher, a father who lives close to the chemical spill, wrote a strong opinion piece for The Guardian. “Officials who say we’re safe are lying,” he declares, before outlining his worrying experience. In his piece, he writes that by the next morning after the crash, smog was thick in the air. The day after this, the Enivronmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggested they detected no contaminants in the air. 

Despite this statement from the EPA, Mr Mascher said: “My granddaughters had developed blotches all over their bodies. They looked like burns, as if they’d spent too much time next to a sun lamp. My seven-year-old granddaughter’s leg was beet-red. They were coughing and their eyes were burning. I began to experience constant headaches and a nagging cough.” 

This whole experience is leading many people, both in Ohio and beyond, were profits put before safety, could this have been avoided, and have people been lied to about the severity of the health implications of such a disaster? 

Read more here. 

Journalist detained by British police

The topic of free speech in the UK has been brought into question, after journalist Kit Klarenberg was detained at London’s Luton airport and questioned for five hours about his work.  

According to media outlet The Grayzone, where Mr Klarenberg works, the journalist was also asked about his personal opinion on everything from the current British political leadership to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Kit has previously been vocal about his opinions on censorship and free speech and has made headlines previously due to his exposés on the British government, the CIA and more. 

Here’s what Youtube Channel ‘Redacted’ have said:

 

Other stories you may have missed 

 

The post The Full Picture: What they didn’t tell you appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/the-full-picture-what-they-didnt-tell-you

In-play Betting: Real-time Wagering in the UK

Home Business Magazine Online

In-play betting, commonly referred to as live betting, has developed into one of the most Live betting, or in-play betting, is one of the most exciting forms of gambling in the UK. This allows users to wager on various athletic events in real time, making it interactive. In-play betting is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and excitement.

Real-time sports betting underpins live betting. In-game betting, unlike pre-match betting, lets players take measured risks based on match dynamics. With the capacity to react to game developments, evaluate team or individual performance, and adjust betting strategy, new options arise.

In-play betting adds excitement and interest to UK gamers’ betting experience. Players may watch the game’s ebb and flow, team tactics, and individual performances that can change the outcome. The passive observer gets active.

Benefits and Features of In-play Betting

In-play betting has many benefits and features that make it an attractive choice for UK players.

  • Ability to make informed decisions based on live match dynamics

Bettors can evaluate the current scenario, keep an eye out for any changes in momentum, and take advantage of good odds for real-time betting rather than exclusively relying on pre-match analysis and predictions.

  • Wide range of sports and events

There is a wide range of live events to accommodate a wide variety of interests, from well-known sports leagues to smaller competitions. Whether you’re a tennis or a football fan, there are several possibilities available for live betting.

  • No restrictions of traditional bookmakers

The accessibility and ease of in-play betting have been revolutionized by online betting platforms and smartphone apps. Players are able to wager in real-time from any location at any time with just a few clicks on their cell phones. They can effortlessly follow the action and place bets thanks to this flexibility, whether they’re watching the game at home, in a sports bar, or even in person at the live event.

Understanding In-play Betting Mechanics

It’s crucial to comprehend the game’s mechanics in order to properly appreciate the nuances of the betting. The likelihood of various outcomes varying as the live event goes on. Players can modify their strategies in response to shifting game circumstances thanks to this adaptability. Real-time updates and live data are easily accessible thanks to technological advancements, providing gamers with the knowledge they need to make wise judgements.

Quick thinking and the capacity to effectively analyze match data in real-time are prerequisites for in-game betting. Bettors must remain on top of things by recognising shifts in momentum and taking advantage of constantly shifting betting odds. Players can increase their chances of winning at this thrilling kind of betting by participating actively and making wise choices.

betting
Depositphotos

In-play Betting Strategies

In-play betting success necessitates a well-planned strategy. Finding momentum shifts within a match is one strategy. The momentum of a sporting game can shift from one team or player to another due to its dynamic nature. Bettors can increase their potential returns by identifying these movements and placing appropriate wagers depending on the changing momentum.

Analyzing live match data is a crucial component of in-play betting. Monitoring statistics can give players insightful information about the course of the game, such as possession rates in football or serving percentages in tennis. Bettor’s decisions can be informed by this knowledge, allowing them to profit from new trends or weaknesses in the opposition.

The keys to effective in-play betting are risk management and self-control. Setting boundaries is crucial, both for the distribution of your bankroll and the total number of bets you can make. Bettor bankrolls can be preserved and more thoughtful judgements can be made by exercising control and resisting the urge to place impetuous bets or chase losses.

Exploring Alternatives: Betting Sites Outside of Gamstop

It’s crucial to recognise that Gamstop-excluded betting sites exist. Offshore corporations run these sites, which may not follow UK legislation.

These sites may attract people who want more betting possibilities or greater limits. Before using these sites, be cautious and do your research. Offshore platforms may not protect players or practise responsible gaming.

If you choose to play on betting sites outside of Gamstop, examine reputation, licencing and regulatory information, payment security, and user feedback. Be mindful of the risks of these services, including the absence of legal remedies for disputes or payout concerns.

The Role of Technology in In-play Betting

The Impact of Technology on the UK Betting Industry is very significant. Live broadcasting gives bettors a more thrilling experience. This lets people use their personal observations rather than statistical data to make better decisions.

In-play betting has also changed thanks to mobile betting apps. These apps let bettors follow the action anywhere with a simple interface. Mobile betting apps are accessible from home, a sports bar or the event itself.

In-play bettors rely on data analysis. These tools let bettors make smart judgements with detailed statistics, live updates, and prediction models. Bettors can improve their odds by using these technologies.

Technology raises worries about responsible gambling. Betting alternatives are readily available and may encourage excessive gambling. Operators and bettors must prioritise responsible gambling measures like deposit limits, breaks, and assistance.

sports betting
Depositphotos

Challenges and Considerations

In-play betting is thrilling and risky. Impulsivity is a major issue. Live odds change quickly, tempting impulsive bets. Bettors must be disciplined and follow their strategy to avoid rash and uneducated choices.

In-play betting risks chasing losses. Bettors tend to raise stakes when they’re losing to recover quickly. This can cause more losses and financial distress. Managing risks and avoiding emotional betting requires reasonable expectations and a long-term view.

In-play betting concerns integrity and match-fixing. Live events allow unscrupulous people to alter outcomes. Sports organizations, regulators, and betting operators must take strict efforts to avoid and detect suspicious activity. To protect the sport, bettors should report any abnormalities.

Conclusion

Many UK gamblers favor in-play betting for its real-time wagering and dynamic odds. Its popularity and growth are due to the ability to make informed decisions based on live match dynamics, the large selection of sports and events, and technical advancements.

In-play betting must be done properly. Limits, methods, and self-discipline are essential to enjoying and minimizing the hazards of this type of gambling. Bettor’s success can be improved by remaining informed, adjusting to real events, and making strategic decisions.

FAQ

What is in-play betting?

In-play betting, also known as live betting or real-time wagering, is a form of sports betting where wagers are placed on events that are currently in progress. It allows bettors to place bets and adjust their strategies based on the unfolding dynamics of the game or match.

Is in-play betting popular in the UK?

Yes, in-play betting has gained tremendous popularity in the UK in recent years. The ability to bet on live events and make real-time decisions adds an extra level of excitement and engagement for bettors.

What sports and events are available for in-play betting in the UK?

In-play betting covers a wide range of sports and events in the UK. Popular options include football, tennis, cricket, rugby, basketball, and many others. From major tournaments to local matches, there are ample opportunities for in-play betting across various sports.

How do odds change during the course of a live event in in-play betting?

In in-play betting, odds fluctuate based on the dynamics of the game or match. Factors such as goals scored, player injuries, and momentum shifts can influence the odds. As the event progresses, the odds are adjusted in real-time to reflect the current situation.

How can technology enhance the in-play betting experience?

Technology has played a crucial role in enhancing the in-play betting experience. Live streaming allows bettors to watch the events in real-time, while mobile betting apps provide convenience and accessibility. Data analysis tools and predictive models assist bettors in making informed decisions, while advancements like VR and AR offer exciting possibilities for the future.

The post In-play Betting: Real-time Wagering in the UK appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/special-types/in-play-betting-real-time-wagering-uk/

Unlocking the Benefits of Call Center Outsourcing for Your Business

Home Business Magazine Online

In today’s hyper-competitive business landscape, providing exceptional customer service is essential for business success. However, maintaining an in-house call center can be expensive and resource-intensive. That’s where call center outsourcing comes in. Outsourcing call center services to a third-party provider helps businesses save money, increase efficiency, reduce staffing costs, and improve customer service. By partnering with a call center service provider, businesses can utilize the expertise of skilled professionals and the latest state-of-the-art technologies without incurring the high costs of an in-house call center. With this in mind, this article will explore the benefits of call center outsourcing and examine how it can unlock your business’s full potential.

Cost Savings

Outsourcing call center services to a reliable provider can help businesses save money in various ways. It eliminates the need to invest in expensive equipment and software, and mitigates the costs associated with hiring and training staff. Outsourcing partners already have the infrastructure and skilled staff in place, resulting in reduced operating costs for businesses. In comparison to in-house call centers that have fixed costs and limitations, outsourcing allows businesses to easily accommodate fluctuations in call volume without incurring additional costs. Moreover, businesses can achieve significant cost savings without sacrificing the quality of service by working with an experienced and reliable call center outsourcing provider. Numerous case studies and examples have shown that businesses that have opted for outsourcing call center services have saved up to 60% on monthly call center expenses.

Improved Efficiency and Flexibility

Outsourcing outbound call center services can lead to increased efficiency and flexibility for businesses. By outsourcing such services, businesses can benefit from the expertise and experience of specialized professionals, who can provide quality services that are customized to meet the unique needs of their customers. Outsourcing also offers additional flexibility to businesses, including the ability to accommodate seasonal fluctuations in call volume, adjust to market demands, and provide multilingual call center services. Case studies and examples show that outsourcing call center services has led to improved productivity and efficiency, resulting in better customer satisfaction ratings for businesses.

Access to Skilled Professionals

Customer support outsourcing provides businesses with access to skilled and experienced professionals, who can deliver high-quality services to customers. Outsourcing call center services eliminates the cost of hiring, training, and maintaining an in-house team and allows businesses to focus on core activities, while the outsourced team handles customer support tasks. By partnering with an outsourcing service provider, businesses can leverage the skills, experience, and knowledge of qualified professionals, who have extensive industry-specific training and expertise, and are familiar with the latest tools and technologies. Case studies and examples show that businesses that have opted for customer support outsourcing have achieved significant improvements in customer satisfaction ratings, increased productivity, and reduced operating costs, delivering superior customer experiences.

Improved Customer Service

Hiring outsourced call center services can be a game-changer in providing better customer service. By outsourcing customer service functions, businesses can access specialized resources such as highly trained professionals knowledgeable in the business domain, advanced technologies, and artificial intelligence to elevate customer satisfaction levels. One great example is the addition of chatbots and virtual assistants that can handle incoming inquiries around the clock, which add significant value to the business. These specialized services can enhance the quality of customer service by making it more responsive and personalized. Case studies indicate that businesses that outsource their call center services to specialized providers gain notably increased customer satisfaction ratings and experiences, leading to improved retention, advocacy, and faster revenue growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, call center outsourcing can help businesses in various ways, including cost savings, improved efficiency, access to skilled professionals, and excellent customer service. By partnering with a call center outsourcing provider, businesses may benefit from the specialized expertise of highly skilled professionals who can provide customized services based on their unique needs. Call center outsourcing provides a long-term value as it enables businesses to scale and adapt to changing market demands while maintaining high-quality customer support services. Therefore, businesses looking to outsource call center services should seek to find reliable outsourcing providers and take advantage of the full potential of outsourcing for their business. It is crucial for businesses to make informed decisions and choose a provider that meets their specific expectations and requirements.

The post Unlocking the Benefits of Call Center Outsourcing for Your Business appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/sales/customer-service/unlocking-benefits-call-center-outsourcing-business/

Bing Chat increases chat turns, adds visuals to travel queries and expands Bing Image Creator

Microsoft Bing has released a number of improvements to Bing Chat this week, including more chat turns, more visuals and expanding Bing Image Creator.

More chat turns. Bing Chat now supports 30 chat turns per conversation, which is up from 20 chat turns per conversation. Plus, you are now allowed 300 total chat turns per day. Bing explained, “This increase also applies to any conversations in your chat history.” So you are allowed to return to conversations where you may have previously reached your turn limit and pick up where you left off, without it counting against your turns.

Eventually, these limits will go away but AI tools like these are expensive and server intensive to run, so Microsoft is scaling it up slowly.

Visuals in travel. Bing Chat now will show and generate more visual results for your travel queries. These visuals also contain links directly to Bing Travel results.

Here is what it looks like:

artificial intelligence

Bing Image Creator expanded. Bing Image Creator now works not just in creative mode, as it launched in within Bing Chat, but now works in all chat modes, including Precise and Balanced modes.

Here is a GIF of that in action:

Bing

Why we care. We will continue to keep track of these improvements to Bing Chat, Google Bard, SGE and other AI improvements. The pace of improvements are increasing and a super fast rate.

The post Bing Chat increases chat turns, adds visuals to travel queries and expands Bing Image Creator appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/bing-chat-increases-chat-turns-adds-visuals-to-travel-queries-and-expands-bing-image-creator-427832

Ask Instacart brings generative AI to Instacart’s search experience

Instacart is adding generative AI to its search experience. Called Ask Instacart, the new search feature is designed to help answer shoppers’ grocery-related questions and give a boost to sponsored product campaigns.

How it works. Just like with Google and Microsoft Bing, Instacart users will be able to search via natural language queries and get personalized recommendations. For example:

  • “What kind of side dishes should I serve with lamb chops?”
  • “What are dairy-free snacks for kids?”
  • “What are the best veggies to roast?”

Ask Instacart is built using OpenAI’s ChatGPT plus Instacart’s own AI models. Instacart said this is “a highly specialized model designed to only respond to relevant food-related questions.”

What it looks like. Here’s a screenshot of Ask Instacart:

Ask Instacart

Search prompts. Instacart has also added “personalized question prompts” to the search bar. Instacart said these prompts “anticipate customer preferences, remind them of their needs based on their shopping history, and inspire them to discover new products.”

Why we care. For CPG brands and retailers, this AI-powered search offers a new way to potentially get your product campaign seen by more shoppers – aiding in discovery and driving more sales.

Rollout timeline. More than half of Instacart app users now have access to generative AI search. It will roll out to all U.S. customers “over the coming weeks.”

Intro video. Here’s the video introducing Ask Instacart:

The post Ask Instacart brings generative AI to Instacart’s search experience appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/ask-instacart-generative-ai-launch-427831

A customer data roadmap for staying ahead of the competition by Cynthia Ramsaran

Business Finance

In today’s competitive landscape, the key to winning over customers lies in personalized and extraordinary experiences. First-party data is a vital ingredient in this journey.

By delving deep into customers’ engagement patterns, behaviors and transactional preferences, brands can gain invaluable insights. These insights, when effectively utilized, have the potential to transform the customer experience landscape.

In an era where every brand strives to capture customer attention and foster loyalty, this webinar will unveil the path to delivering a truly remarkable CX.

Learn more by registering for and attending “Your Customer Data Roadmap to Staying Ahead of the Competition,” presented by Redpoint Global.

Click here to view more Search Engine Land webinars.

The post A customer data roadmap for staying ahead of the competition appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/a-customer-data-roadmap-for-staying-ahead-of-the-competition-427797

Google Bard now can use your device’s precise location for more relevant local results

Google Bard can now use your device’s precise location to provide better local results to your questions. When you go to Google Bard, a popup dialog may show up that reads “To get more relevant responses, you can also choose to let Bard use your device’s precise location.”

The notice. Here is what you might see when you access bard.google.com:

.asec

You may also see another prompt asking you to confirm that you want to share your location with Google.

Better local results. Google said you should see “more relevant responses about restaurants near you and many other things about your area.” I tried it and it does not seem to work for me, just yet, but it may still be rolling out.

Why we care. Local search is a huge driver of business for many small and local businesses. If people use Google Bard to find places to get pizza, get a haircut, find a dentist and so on, this may drive additional traffic to those businesses.

You’d obviously think you need to be on Google Business Profiles for that to work, so make sure your clients are set up in Business Profiles and do some searches, see how it differs from Google Search.

The post Google Bard now can use your device’s precise location for more relevant local results appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-bard-now-can-use-your-devices-precise-location-for-more-relevant-local-results-427800

How to Choose the Right Office Door for Your Business — A Comprehensive Guide

Home Business Magazine Online

You must consider a number of factors when selecting the right office door for a business owner. With so many options available on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. The right door will not only enhance the look of your business but also provide your employees and customers with safety and security. You will find different types of doors that will meet your business needs in this comprehensive guide.

What Door Is Ideal for Your Home Business?

French Doors

A French door’s classic appearance and ability to let natural light into a room have made it a popular choice for centuries. Access is easy in and out of the office with these double doors, which push in or out based on the design of the space. In addition, French openings create a clear separation between the office space and the rest of the home, enhancing the appearance and décor of the room. French doors can increase the property’s value as well.

Glass Doors

If your budget allows it, consider installing glass doors for your home office. Glass doors are an excellent investment for workspace design as they provide an open and bright atmosphere to the space, which can lead to improved productivity and creativity. In addition to reducing electricity bills and environmental impact, you can reduce the need for artificial lighting by allowing natural light into the room.

Modern technology has made glass a relatively safe material, and tempered glass is the best option because of its strength and crumbles instead of breaking into sharp shards in the event of a breakage. Additionally, tempered glass is resistant to scratches and can withstand extreme temperature changes, making it a durable option for your home office. Furthermore, glass enclosures provide a sense of privacy while still allowing you to see outside of your workspace.

Sliding Barn Doors

It’s a great idea to use sliding barn doors in an office as they provide a sense of separation and privacy without taking up too much space. They also add a distinctive upscale touch to the typical barn doors and are not distracting, which can help create an atmosphere of calm and productivity. Additionally, the rails at the top of most sliding barn entrances may not provide complete soundproofing for the office, but they can still significantly reduce noise. This can be especially beneficial if your office is located in a busy area or if you need to take important calls or hold video conferences.

office door
Depositphotos

Pocket Door

For those who prefer an open layout for their office but still want some privacy on occasion, pocket doors are an ideal solution. The minimal apertures of the pocket frame frames provide a clean backdrop that works well in a minimalist office space. One advantage of pocket doors is that they are space-saving since they slide into a “pocket” in the wall instead of swinging out. Additionally, custom doors can be a great way to add architectural interest to an office space. It is possible to customize them to fit any office design since they come in a variety of styles and materials. Furthermore, pocket doorways can be used to control sound, making them a popular choice for conference rooms or private offices where confidentiality is important. Lastly, pocket doors can help with energy efficiency, as they can help to insulate a room by sealing it off from drafts.

Double Sliding Doors

Double sliding doors have become increasingly popular in modern office spaces due to their aesthetic appeal and functionality. Apart from providing a sleek and contemporary look, they also allow for ample natural light and air circulation, creating a more inviting and comfortable work environment.

One of the key advantages of double sliding shutters is their flexibility. They can be fully opened or partially opened, depending on the desired level of privacy or ventilation. This customization option makes them a great choice for office spaces that require versatility and adaptability.

Another benefit of double sliding doors is their eco-friendliness and energy efficiency. Many manufacturers offer options that are made from environmentally friendly materials, making them an environmentally conscious choice for any office space.

Hidden Doors

Hidden doors are an interesting and stylish way to incorporate intrigue into your home decor. These panels blend seamlessly with wall panels, adding a sense of mystery and sophistication to your living space. They are flush with the wall and do not have visible casings, hardware, or frames, which gives them a seamless and concealed appearance. Hidden doors are ideal for creating a secret room in your home office or a hidden passage in your living room or bedroom. They can also serve practical purposes, such as providing a safe place to store valuables or creating a panic room in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

Choosing the right office door is crucial for the overall look, safety, and security of your business. The ideal door will not only meet your business needs but also enhance the appearance and décor of your office space. The type of door you choose will depend on several factors, including your budget, the size of your office, the level of privacy required, and the overall aesthetic appeal. French doors, glass doors, sliding barn doors, pocket doors, double sliding doors, and hidden doors are all excellent options that can be customized to meet your specific business needs.

The post How to Choose the Right Office Door for Your Business — A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/home-office/office-design/how-to-choose-right-office-door-business-comprehensive-guide/

PATIENCE, MY SON, PATIENCE

Home Business Magazine Online

By Greg Battersby

CEO, ProBatter Sports

We live in a “now” world, with 24-hour cable news channels, Twitter, Instagram and other social media all expressing the immediacy of the moment.  It is a reflection of the seemingly universal condition of “pop-up brain,” in which our collective attention spans have become shorter and shorter.  As a result, we demand instant gratification and results in almost everything we do.  Otherwise, we simply swipe left.

Unfortunately, this currently popular approach to life isn’t ideal for building a business.  Creating a company that will hopefully be around for decades doesn’t happen overnight.  It requires patience, staying power and the ability to change to meet the moment.  The old adage “It’s a marathon, not a sprint” best describes the attitude necessary to be successful.

Truth be told, the easiest part of launching a business is designing and developing a new product that can potentially revolutionize (or at least change) the marketplace.  There are countless people out there who can identify a need and intellectually come up with a proposed solution that can be turned into a commercial endeavor.  Indeed, designing and creating such a product in the form of a prototype, is the first challenge that separates the dreamer from the businessperson.

If you’re fortunate enough to overcome that first hurdle, the second challenge is even more imposing — constructing a commercial version of that prototype that can be produced at a competitive price and, more importantly, is reliable.

If those challenges weren’t daunting enough, the final challenge could be the most difficult: convincing potential users that they should use your product versus the tried and true products they had employed for many years.

I started ProBatter Sports in the mid-90s, manufacturing and selling high-tech video pitching simulators for baseball, softball and cricket.  We were the first company to employ a three-wheel pitch head that could throw any pitch that a pitcher could throw in a real game at any speed to any location.  Combined with software we developed, we synced it up with the projected video image of an actual pitcher to simulate game-like conditions.

My youngest son, Adam, was the impetus for developing the product…and ultimately, the company.  He was a terrific scholastic baseball player who had trouble hitting off-speed pitches, which is a common problem with young players.  Adam was trained using a traditional Iron Mike at a batting cage where every pitch was the same type at the same speed to the same location.  No wonder he found it difficult to hit in a game against real pitchers who reveled in throwing different pitches at varying speeds and constantly moving the ball around.

While consumers may be enamored with “new and shiny” products, actually getting them to pay money for your new creation can be a nearly insurmountable task, particularly when it costs significantly more than existing solutions.  Moreover, there is often a mindset to overcome, typically rooted in decades of doing things a certain way.  In some instances, asking a customer to change from what they are used to doing can be difficult, irrespective of any existing limitations.

For example, while we were developing the first ProBatter simulator, we were told it took Major League Baseball 20 years to adopt the use of radar guns to measure pitch speed. We couldn’t believe it until we noticed one prominent pitching coach using a stopwatch to measure pitch speed!  Don’t ask me why he was doing it, let alone how he was getting anything close to usable results.

“Rome was not built in a day” is a truism that certainly applied to ProBatter, but fortunately, our product was initially well-received by consumers.  Still, initial reception is simply one step in building a business.  Creating the infrastructure to manufacture and sell your gotta-have, new product is the real challenge and it’s not for the faint of heart.  You will face challenges at every turn and they will drain you of every last ounce of your time, money and patience.

The initial euphoria you experience with a successful launch will be countered by the daily struggle of developing a company to manufacture and sell your product.  Along the way, you will also learn some hard lessons about personnel.  Carve it in stone — the people you are sure will be superstars will frequently disappoint you.

Developing a sales team was perhaps the most daunting. One of the dumbest things I ever did was to believe that we could take baseball players and make them salespeople.  WRONG.  Good salespeople have a specific skill set not typically found in most baseball players — certainly not the ones with whom we worked.  The problem was compounded by our inability to weed out the good from the bad in the interview process, since the one skill set that every salesperson has is the ability to sell themselves.  Subsequently, a colleague advised me that the best way to consider sales personnel is to look at their track record.  Past success usually translates to future success. Similarly, prior failures are typically repeated.

My day job is as an intellectual property lawyer.  I’ve come to recognize that there are three absolutes in life — death, taxes and successful products will be knocked off.  We certainly experienced more than our share of the latter.  Despite securing more than a dozen patents for our simulator, we’ve still had competitors nipping at our heels.  One in particular has dogged us persistently, leading to protracted and expensive litigation.  Despite our winning at every stage, the infringer has persisted.  When the case finally ends (after almost 20 years of litigation), both sides will have collectively spent far more in legal fees than the case was worth.  That’s a potential problem every startup company faces because existing companies can intentionally mire you in litigation and legal fees until you are forced to finally give up.  That’s a sad commentary about our patent and legal system.

For all the headaches, there is still one positive aspect of competition, however.  Being pushed in this manner makes one more resilient and forces you to keep up with the competition.  Over the years, we’ve redesigned our product line no less than four times.  The net result has been the reduction of manufacturing costs by 80 percent — while adding more features — and being able to pass the savings along to our customers.  This is one area where it has been a win-win for everybody.

As you move forward with building your company, every day will be a challenge.  Some of the tribulations will be of your own making, while others will be out of your control.  Who could have predicted the Great Recession of 2008-2009?  Or the COVID pandemic and its resultant supply chain problems?  We saw suppliers we relied on for critical components go out of business and had to learn how to source products from China.  Thank you, Alibaba!  Similarly, who could have anticipated that our customers would have to either shut their doors or cancel their seasons?

Ultimately, it’s all about resilience and having an underlying belief in your company and its products.  As the world changes, so do successful businesses.  We recently changed our model by partnering with one of the largest electromechanical manufacturers in the world, Foxconn, to manufacture our product, along with a team of skilled professionals in sales, marketing, public relations and sponsorship to help grow our business.

For all the pain involved in starting and growing your business, the feelings of accomplishment in realizing one’s dreams are second to none.  I think of the line uttered by manager Jimmy Duggan (Tom Hanks) in A League of Their Own: “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard… is what makes it great.”  For me, the biggest reward is watching my son Adam — the same kid who struggled with off-speed pitches — grow into a successful businessman and manager running ProBatter Sports.  It’s been a long journey, but one that has been well worth taking.

The post PATIENCE, MY SON, PATIENCE appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/success-stories-businesses/patience-my-son-building-business/

Earn money by sharing your internet connection

This is a promotional article on behalf of Honeygain

Earn money by sharing your internet connection 

As the world struggles through a period of economic uncertainty, many people are looking at alternative ways to make extra money on the side. According to a study by Finder, 44% of Brits have at least one side hustle, with the most popular ways to earn cash including selling old or unwanted items, creating content, and creating products to sell.  

The National Living Wage in the UK currently stands at £10.42 per hour, a rise of 9.7 per cent compared to the previous financial year. However, due to this rise not keeping up with current inflation levels of 10.1%, money is still lost in real terms, as you need to spend more money to buy the same goods. For example, even though wages increased in April, food inflation is at 19.2%, meaning the real value of your income may be decreasing. 

So, it’s no surprise many are turning to side hustles to put a little extra in the bank. But many people don’t have time to take up a second job, take extra shifts at work, or create a small side business for themselves. Many of us may have childcare responsibilities or other commitments. In these instances, passive income streams may be a better option. Income streams allow a person to earn from something without having to actively participate in it. 

Honeygain 

honeygain earn from sharing internet connection

This is where useful tools such as Honeygain come in. Honeygain allows you to make money by sharing your internet connection. Now, that may seem daunting, but at MoneyMagpie we believe cybersecurity and the safety of personal information is key. So, let us explain what Honeygain does, and how you can earn extra income easily.  

When you start using Honeygain, your devices act as view towers to help businesses globally use the internet without location-based restrictions or censorship. It can be downloaded onto devices with a stable internet connection, including Linux, Android, Windows, macOS and iOS devices. 

So, you are now safely and securely sharing your internet connection using Honeygain. But how much could you actually earn? Well, the average earning is $40 per month. With various earning boosters, you can make over a hundred dollars every month if you wish to do so. 

Why is Honeygain so important? 

Not only is Honeygain a great method of earning extra money without much effort at all, but it is an extremely useful tool across the globe. A huge number of remote side hustles are aimed at North America and other Western regions. Honeygain allows people in other regions of the world with limited opportunities to earn extra money in an easy and straight-forward way.  

Completing online surveys is a popular option for people to make additional income in less-developed regions of the world. However, it requires effort and time commitments to earn money through survey sites.   

Honeygain is another option due to its accessibility worldwide. It can make a difference to people’s financial status in these regions without requiring additional work. 

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For example, in Gambia, the minimum wage currently stands at 50 dalasi per day – approximately $1.25 or £1.01. Average food costs in Gambia are approximately $107 per person, per month – that’s just under $25 per week. If someone living in Gambia earns $40 per month from Honeygain, they would be able to use the money to pay for almost two weeks of groceries. 

Similarly, the minimum wage in Chile is 410,000 Chilean Peso per month – that’s about $512. So, allowing a person living in Chile the opportunity to earn $40 to supplement their income means they would be getting over 7.5% added to their monthly earnings. 

These examples show just why applications like Honeygain are invaluable in helping people earn money in ways not possible before. Honeygain is giving people the opportunity to supplement their incomes no matter their financial status or background. 

Payment 

Earnings depend on the demand for your location from Honeygain’s business clients, plus the number of users in your area. Users can refer friends to get a permanent 10% bonus added to their earnings or participate in social media contests to increase their earning potential. 

You have a choice to be paid through either PayPal or cryptocurrency. You can even set up your earnings to pay for a subscription service automatically, including Spotify Premium, Netflix, and Xbox Live. 

Additionally, all user payouts are made secure by two-factor authentication (2FA). With single-factor authentication, you only need one form of confirmation to log into your account – your password. However, the app’s 2FA means you will need a unique code, sent by email, text message or a special authentication app to log in and get your payment. This prevents the money you earn falling into the wrong hands. 

Average food costs

There’s not just money to be earned, either. Users are the main beneficiary of Honeygain, and are entered into contests, offered special features like Lucky Pot and a great referral programme. When you refer a friend, they get $5 free for signing up, and when they share over 200 MB you’ll be entered to win up to 4 million Honeygain credits worth of prizes, including Macbooks, gift cards and more. Honeygain’s priority is your online security, offering you the opportunity to earn a great passive income and fun rewards, without ever compromising your information. 

Privacy and security 

Chief Privacy Officer, Department of Homeland Security

Honeygain securely shares your internet connection, without using or gaining access to any of your personal data. The only information collected from you is your email address and IP address.  

Only publicly available data is collected when you share your internet connection, so no secure or private data can be used. This data is then used by reputable, credible companies, lwho use it for market research, price comparisons, and other verified business practices. 

In short, Honeygain enables businesses to perform data-intensive operations, thanks to Honeygain users who supply the internet bandwidth. It solves what tech reviewers call “large data gathering problems” and improves business processes. If you’re ever annoyed by irrelevant ads, you can help correct the ad placement by using Honeygain.  

Honeygainis serious about privacy and will never access your device’s storage. Not only has it passed all anti-virus checks, but it prides itself on putting your cybersecurity first. Proxyware can be an uncertain topic for many, and a lack of awareness can lead to worries and concerns. So, they do all they can to stop security threats head– on to put users at ease. 

 

If you want to make money passively with a click of a button, you can sign up for Honeygain here. Plus, as a valued MoneyMagpie reader, you’ll get $5 free as a gift from Honeygain. Click here, or use code ‘MONEYMAGPIE’ at checkout.

The post Earn money by sharing your internet connection appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/earn-money-by-sharing-your-internet-connection