5 mistakes small businesses should avoid in online reputation management
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5 mistakes small businesses should avoid in online reputation management

A business’s online reputation can make or break it, which means it can attract new customers or cause them to lose them to a competitor. Online reviews and social media impact small businesses; managing this online presence is crucial for success. Businesses employ dos and don’ts when doing so, and these become tentpoles to sustain the brand. One can safeguard their business’ reputation by avoiding common mistakes and implementing effective reputation management techniques. Neglecting online feedback A business’s online reputation should be actively managed as part of its digital marketing strategy; assuming it will take care of itself is a costly mistake. Negative reviews or comments, if left unaddressed, can quickly escalate, favoring the disgruntled party with a probable large following. This escalation can damage the business’s reputation and be challenging to control. Underutilizing social media Social media platforms offer opportunities to engage with the audience, showcase the brand, and quickly address concerns. When a business is not active on social media, it deprives itself of vital interaction, exposure, a chance to connect with customers, and an attempt to achieve brand loyalty. DIY reputation management Some professionals have the expertise, resources, and know-how to handle a business’s online reputation. For small businesses, handling their online presence can quickly get overwhelming, and they may fall behind in monitoring mentions, responding to queries, and addressing negative feedback.
5 common wristband branding mistakes to avoid
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5 common wristband branding mistakes to avoid

Wristbands aren’t just functional accessories. They currently serve as one of the more effective and popular tools to spread awareness of a brand, company, event, or festival. Whether in promotional events or as merchandise, wristbands are the go-to product, and that’s why it’s so important to get it right. Here are some common wristband branding mistakes that companies should avoid if they want to ensure their brand messaging is loud and clear to their audience. Poor design Wristband designs should be visually appealing, easily recognizable, and aligned with the company’s brand identity. Cluttered designs, busy patterns, illegible fonts, excessive text, and unclear logos can defeat the purpose. Creativity, while essential in branding, can backfire if the design is overcomplicated or too obscure. Clean, simple, and easily recognizable with a minimalist approach is often a bigger success story. Colors, too, play a crucial role in branding, and designers must ensure that the wristband colors complement the brand. They must also avoid colors that make reading the text difficult. Customization features such as embossing, debossing, color-fill, or glow-in-the-dark effects should be explored to the fullest. Low-quality materials Using cheap, flimsy materials can reflect negatively on the brand. High-quality materials and those that would be comfortable and durable should be used.
4 common mistakes to avoid when waterproofing basements
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4 common mistakes to avoid when waterproofing basements

Basements are no longer dusty rooms used as storage areas or not used at all. They are now being repurposed in homes and offices to serve as parking spaces, gymnasiums, libraries, cafeterias, etc. So, renovating one’s basement can help utilize this area effectively. One of the major steps in basement renovation is waterproofing because moisture accumulates quickly in basements. But to avoid potential problems, one should not make these mistakes while waterproofing their basements: Not waiting before draining flood water from the basement If there is a flood, it is likely to affect the basement first before moving to the other rooms in a home or office. In such a scenario, one’s first natural reaction is to drain the water as soon as possible. However, not waiting for some time before draining the water is a mistake because the water accumulates outside and around the basement and increases pressure in the basement. So, it ends up flooding in again within no time. Here, the best bet is to be a little patient before draining water from the basement. Forgetting to examine the soil around the foundation If the soil around the building’s foundation is too porous, water can easily seep into the basement.
3 interesting glass wall and door ideas for home
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3 interesting glass wall and door ideas for home

Modern homes employ materials in unique and exciting ways to enhance their look and feel. Quite simply, take glass, for example. Homeowners can hire contractors to use glass to build walls and doors, a far cry from the idea that the material only works for windows. However, one can also use glass screens and doors for various applications anywhere in one’s home. Here are some fun ideas for using glass for walls and doors. Sunrooms Sunrooms were once a massive trend in the past, but they are now making a comeback. These rooms are built with tinted glass screens to ensure privacy while remaining translucent. A sunroom’s most significant advantage is its ability to provide occupants with sunlight, a crucial element for good health and wellness due to its vitamin D reserves. Homeowners can regulate the sunlight they need in their sunroom by specifying the tint required on the room’s glass walls, ceiling, and doors. Waking up in a sunroom promises occupants a compelling and divine feeling due to the beautiful early morning sun rays. Tinted glass shower doors Glass shower doors give bathrooms a tranquil and enchanting feel. People can purchase tinted frameless shower doors to maintain privacy for bathroom users and let in adequate light and sun rays (during mornings and sunny afternoons).
4 unhealthy habits that make mattresses dirty
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4 unhealthy habits that make mattresses dirty

Most individuals spend a lot of time in bed and use it to sleep, read books, watch TV while munching food, and spend time with their partner. With so much time spent in bed, it is prudent to keep the mattress clean. After all, no one wants to sleep in a dirty, unmade bed. Dirty mattresses can cause a host of health issues. So, here are a few habits to avoid that make mattresses dirty. 1. Not washing sheets regularly Bed sheets and mattresses have ample skin cell deposits, pet dander, and environmental dust. These deposits can further lead to bacterial and fungal growth when not cleaned. To avoid this complication, washing the sheets at least once a week is important. Additionally, people should use mattress covers that add an extra layer of protection for the mattress. These can be removed and washed regularly to prolong the mattress’s durability and prevent it from getting dirty. 2. Putting bags on the bed Bringing in shopping, luggage, or any other bags that have traveled through different surfaces or environments and putting them on the bed is a big no-no. It is a convenient option; however, it is a very unhealthy one. Instead, place them on some other surface.
6 benefits of funeral expense coverage for seniors
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6 benefits of funeral expense coverage for seniors

Funerals might not be something one may want to plan for, but one must not put these topics off. Funerals can be expensive. So, taking care of finances for such expenses beforehand can relieve the burden of paying for a funeral in the future. For this, one can consider burial insurance, which covers expenses related to a funeral. Here are a few benefits of opting for a policy that offers funeral expense coverage: 1. Financial security Funeral and burial insurance offers financial security to the family of the deceased. This helps ease the strain of bearing expenses, allowing loved ones to focus on other aspects while dealing with their loss. 2. Shield against rising costs A funeral service is typically expensive, with costs on the rise each year. So, even though one might have saved some money in the past to cover any associated expenses, it might not be enough to meet the current cost of such a service. Certain funeral insurance policies address this problem by locking in the cost of service at the current price and accounting for inflation. So, loved ones will not have to pay any additional costs to pay for the funeral, even if prices skyrocket in the future.
4 common mistakes people make when starting a nonprofit
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4 common mistakes people make when starting a nonprofit

Starting a non-profit to find a solution for a social cause is a noble pursuit. However, it is a complex task and can require a lot of deliberation. Irrespective of how well-intentioned an individual is, they must develop a business sense to establish and run a successful non-profit organization. Starting a non-profit requires more than just planning and research. To succeed, those looking to start a non-profit must avoid common mistakes, such as: Having unrealistic expectations A common mistake individuals make when starting their non-profit organizations is starting with unrealistic expectations. They do not consider the time, energy, and resources a non-profit organization can cost to start. These include setup, office space, legal fees, incorporation fees, and other expenses. One might also need to invest hours of research and planning to create a fundraising plan. Individuals should remember that starting a non-profit is a time-consuming process. Therefore, planning beforehand is critical to starting on a winning foot. Choosing amateur board members Board members are the backbone of any organization. A nonprofit is likely to fail if the hired board members are ineffective and lack a vision similar to that of the organization. The right board members believe in the organization’s mission and are ready to promote that to others.
4 mistakes to avoid when buying an ice machine
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4 mistakes to avoid when buying an ice machine

Several businesses, like restaurants, bars, hotels, and healthcare centers, require ice in bulk. In such cases, investing in an ice machine is a wise business decision. However, several factors need to be considered when buying or upgrading an ice machine since it directly impacts the efficiency and productivity of the operations. Also, one must avoid making some common mistakes while buying an ice machine, as these can cause service disruptions or additional expenses. Underestimating one’s needs Businesses tend to underestimate their needs when it comes to ice production and may order an ice maker that’s too small or insufficient to meet their requirements. To avoid this, businesses can create a list of all operational areas that require ice and the respective quantity. For example, a restaurant may need ice at the beverage counter, salad counter, and cold food display areas. Moreover, it is important to note that the demands of ice may vary according to seasons. For example, summers may see an upsurge in demand for ice creams or cold beverages in restaurants. So, consider year-long and daily needs before investing in a machine. Not choosing a suitable type of machine Different ice machines serve different needs. For example, under-counter commercial ice machines are suitable for hotels and bars, while countertop commercial ice makers are used widely in coffee shops or dining places.
4 tips for choosing the right GPS fleet tracking system
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4 tips for choosing the right GPS fleet tracking system

A GPS fleet tracking system or management application helps track not just the location of the vehicles but also other factors like driver behaviors, fuel consumption, and a lot more. Although there are many options available for this kind of management system, knowing what works best for an individual requires some research. Therefore, here are some tips one can keep in mind while choosing the right GPS fleet tracking system for one’s needs. Real-time tracking Before getting a GPS fleet tracking system, it is important to check whether it offers real-time or periodic updates. Depending on one’s requirements, one can choose the type of tracking needed. A real-time tracking feature helps one know exactly where the vehicle is at all times. This is especially useful for any emergency services, law enforcement, and other municipalities or government agencies. Geofencing This is an important feature one must check for. With geofencing, one can get real-time updates every time a tagged vehicle enters or leaves a specific area marked on the map. This is useful for some organizations that need to know when the vehicles come in and go so they can keep track of the timings. Notifications This is an important part of the tracking system.
3 easy hairstyle ideas for women over 55
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3 easy hairstyle ideas for women over 55

Age is not a barrier to beauty, but certain hairstyles make people look stunning at specific ages. For instance, for women over 55 years of age, some hairstyles provide gravitas, grace, a sense of calm, and experience without compromising on other beauty-based attributes. For these reasons and many more, women must know some of the easiest hairstyles that will accentuate their look like nothing else. Here are some such hairstyles one can try: Medium-length feathered hairstyle This hairstyle features feathered layers and a beautiful white dimensional hue that automatically lends women an ethereal look and grace. This can be a go-to hairstyle for those who prefer beauty and elegance over louder styles. Women can incorporate icy and cool tones for highlights when they get this hairstyle done. The highlights add a sense of shine to their overall appearance. Unlike many other hairstyles recommended for women over 55, this one looks and feels better when done on long, flowy hair. Feathered bob hairstyle with balayage The feathered bob cut is a radical new take on the classic bob cut, one of the most adored hairstyles around the globe. This hairstyle incorporates added angles, layers, and balayage into a traditional bob cut.

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6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals
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6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial.
4 travel mistakes to take a break from
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4 travel mistakes to take a break from

Whether you are a novice wanderlust or have been to hundreds of places, mistakes are a part of the process. But, it is important to learn and avoid the mistakes that might ruin your journey. One of the common traveling mistakes to avoid is taking connecting flights as you might have to cancel or modify back-to-back bookings in case your first flight is delayed. Read on to know some other travel mistakes to avoid. Overpacking Choosing what to pack is a hard job. But being weighed down by your bulky suitcase is a lot more difficult. Start off with choosing the bag that is right for the duration of your trip. Don’t go for a big bag. The bigger the bag, the more will you be packing. With a smaller bag, you’ll only carry things necessary for the trip and there are no extra options. Moreover, with limited belongings, you can easily keep your hotel room clean. Visiting several destinations Taking time off from your routine does not mean you spend every minute of the couple of days you have off in traveling. It is a common mistake most travelers make and one that you need to avoided on your next trip.
Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021
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Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021

If you’ve been craving to travel and are ready to get back out there and explore the wonders, here’s some good news: the Viking Ocean Cruises are now operational! In this article, we’ve compiled the top four cruises just for you. We’ll discuss the dates, cruise itinerary, prices, and all that’s included in the said package. If you’ve wanted a fun-filled escape, now is your chance! Bermuda Escape – $1,799 pp If you’re someone who enjoys impromptu plans, this one’s for you! This seven-night cruise departs on June 15, 2021, from Hamilton. The itinerary includes cruising through the Atlantic ocean, St. George, and King’s Wharf. The cost includes a cabin with a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, select dining, most onboard entertainment options, shore excursions, room service, and basic hot and cold beverages. The price also includes port taxes and fees. Malta and The Western Mediterranean – $3,599 If you’d like to treat yourself and your family to an extended vacation, this 11-day cruise is perfect. The Viking cruise departs on July 27, 2021, and sails through three gorgeous countries – Malta, Italy, and Spain. The cruise also includes shore excursions on each port. You get a room with a private veranda, luxurious bath essentials, dining at an alternative restaurant, stateroom steward, twice-daily housekeeping, and a spa.
Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022
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Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022

Cruise options in the past few months have been very limited, but things are surely going to change by 2022. Some river cruise liners are planning on embarking with every health and safety protocol in place. They will run with limited passengers, which means you will get a more intimate experience with less crowd. So, if you missed the waters, take a look at the three best river cruises that you can take in 2022. The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland Arena Travel brings a seven-night-long river cruise on their 4-star MS Arena vessel. Starting from Cologne, UK the cruise takes you to Rhine Gorge past the iconic Lorelei rock to Rüdesheim. On the third day, you reach Speyer and take in the sights of its museums and cathedrals. Next comes Strasbourg and then Basel, where travelers get to spend the day at the Swiss resort of Lucerne, Switzerland. Other cities include Breisach, Alsace, Mannheim, Heidelberg and Mainz. This river cruise sets sail in June and July 2022 with prices starting from approximately $1500 per passenger. Mekong River Cruise This 16-night-long tour package cruise by Smithsonian Journeys includes seven nights at the Mekong river. Passengers will visit three Southeast Asian countries:
4 websites that offer amazing deals on hotel bookings
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4 websites that offer amazing deals on hotel bookings

There’s hardly anything more fun than traveling and exploring new places. The excitement of creating an itinerary and the thrill of being on the road is unmatched, but it’s so much better if the “getaway” is well in your budget. Accommodation is an important factor that determines your overall travel expenses, so deals on that front can help you save big. Here are some of the best hotel booking websites to help you compare deals and plan a budget-friendly trip: Priceline Priceline may come across as your regular hotel booking website, but it offers some outstanding features. For instance, it offers amazing discounts through its Express Deals® feature and free cancelation on most hotels to ensure flexibility. Additionally, Priceline offers a generous best-price guarantee and assures a 100% refund of the price difference if you find a lower price within 24 hours of booking. That’s not all! They offer a 200% refund of the price difference if you find a better price on an Express Deal®. Kayak Kayak is one of the top hotel booking sites for comparing deals and is known for its filtering options and map feature. Just click on your destination on the map, and Kayak will give you all the information you need, including stay options.
Top 5 cruises in Europe
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Top 5 cruises in Europe

Europe has been touted as one of the topmost fabulous destinations for tourism. With a large variety of landscapes and different types of attractions available, the scenic locations here are full of culture and heritage. So, it is a complete delight to embark upon cruises, ranging from the river wonders such as the Seine to vast ocean cruises. To that effect, we have curated a list of top cruises available in Europe for you: AmaWaterways AmaWaterways River Cruise line offers many itineraries that take you through some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, including Paris and Santorini. Enjoy the intimate river ships offered here with exquisite dining options and a lot more. If you wish to enjoy culture to its fullest, AmaWaterways is definitely an option you would want to consider. Avalon Waterways River Cruise Avalon Waterways is one of the best ways to explore the majestic Danube, Rhine, and even the Seine. The Danube cruise runs through beautiful countries, such as Slovakia, Croatia, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, and Serbia. On the other hand, the Rhine river cruises would take you through France, Switzerland, Germany, Holland, and Belgium. Apart from this, you can also embark upon Moselle River cruises, Saone River cruises, and Rhone river cruises.