Skip to main content
Monthly Archives

October 2017

Does the employee fit the job?

By Risk Management Bulletin

I’m a big fan of using character assessment tools — and one of my favorites is www.zeroriskhr.com. My team and I are currently using their post-employment program to help improve our communication and make me a more effective boss. The folks at ZeroRisk reminded me that the employer’s goal is to match skills and natural abilities with job function. As the saying goes, “Put square pegs in square holes!

To help reach this goal, consider how employee personalities can differ:

People Orientation

Reads people – can sense how to be effective with different individuals
Needs others to feel good
Enjoys individual interaction
Enjoys people in group settings
Prefers to not deal with the feelings and individual needs of others
Likes to help others

Results Orientation

Has good practical judgment
Likes to get things done using their hands
Enjoys solve thinking problems
Likes to apply theories to real-life problems
Prefers to think about things, rather than applying them to business issues
Likes to put things where they belong — creating or preserving order

Environment Needs

Is comfortable with a routine
Likes order, structure, and certainty
Enjoys planning and organizing
Needs variety in using creative thinking
Needs to work in a top-level, winning company

Behavioral Characteristics

Thinks out of the box
Obeys the rules, no matter what
Able to do things exactly as instructed
Able to do repetitive tasks consistently
Thinks in terms of the team and belonging to the team
Will be protective of company policies, standards, and mission

Individual Characteristics

Is an individual and needs to express their individuality
Able to handle rejection –has a thick skin
Has a lot of courage
Is passionate about their work
Able to keep secrets
Likes to be in the middle of things
Flexible in midst of change and surprises
Likes to be the center of attention
Team player – little self-glory
Accurate at knowing what they’re best suited to do
Capable in a highly competitive environment
Accurate ideas about their own strengths and weaknesses

Ambition Characteristics

Committed to personal growth
Likes to win
Needs rewards to be directly tied to their work
Driven to excel and improve
Strong sense of accountability
High achievement drive
High degree of initiative

The point is: Match the personality to the job!

Six Steps Reduce Your Credit Card Processing Over payment Risk

By Risk Management Bulletin

As a small business owner, you accept credit cards because it’s convenient for your customers and a smart business decision. You could be overpaying for your credit card processing privilege, though, which puts your business’s financial security at risk. Every month, evaluate your credit card processing statements and take six steps to avoid overpayment.

1. Check each statement carefully.

It’s tempting to glance at your credit card processing statement and simply toss it on the “to be paid” pile. You must take time to review it carefully, though. Look for data entry mistakes, incorrect charges or mislabeled transactions. If you’re not sure what to look for, review your merchant agreement or ask your accountant or CPA for assistance.

2. Look for details.

A statement that merely lists the amount of money you processed and the amount you owe is not detailed enough. You need to know that you’re being charged according to your agreement, so you should see the number and volume of transactions and the tiered, interchange plus or interchange with membership rate for each type of card you accept.

3. Note any lowered fees.

Maybe you notice that some fees have decreased since last month. The credit card processing company could have lowered the fees because of a debit rebate on your plan or as a way to keep your business. Be aware that lowered fees could include hidden charges that outweigh the savings.

4. Know the access fee.

Visa and MasterCard charge an access fee per transaction. While it’s typically less than two cents per transaction, your credit card processing company could boost the fee by several cents without notifying you. Depending on how many credit card transactions your process, even a small increase could cost you hundreds of dollars annually.  Always know the access fee and ensure it’s accurate on each statement.

5. Watch monthly and annual fees.

Your credit card processing company will charge various fees each month. If the statement, PCI, regulatory and other fees adds up to more than $300 per year, you could be paying too much for the service.

6. Evaluate your plan options.

Your small business may have outgrown the plan you picked when you signed your credit card processing contract. Review your credit card transaction history and sales. You may benefit from switching plans or even companies as you save money and accommodate your business’s needs.

Accepting credit card payments is wise for your small business, but you must know how to read your monthly credit card processing statements to reduce your risk of overpayment. Contact the credit card processing company with questions or ask your accountant or CPA for assistance.

Risks of Corrosive Materials

By Risk Management Bulletin

Corrosives are solid or liquid substances that exact extreme caution when handling. They are usually either an acid, such as nitric acid, sulfuric acid, chromic acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, or acetic acid, or a base, such as ammonium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or potassium hydroxide. Anyone that has ever seen the effects that corrosives have on metal or other strong materials can easily imagine the damage that a corrosive would do to the delicate human skin.

Adding to the danger is the fact that corrosives act upon contact, meaning that damage begins the moment that the corrosive or its vapors come into contact with the eyes, mouth, skin, digestive tract, or respiratory tract.

Injuries from coming into contact with corrosive materials might be extensive and, in some cases, irreversible. Keep in mind that the stronger the concentrate of the corrosive material is, the more damage it has the potential of doing. Some of the most common injuries that result from unprotected contact with corrosives are burns to the eyes and skin. The end result might be blindness or severe scarring of the skin tissues.

When the vapors from corrosive materials are inhaled, they might cause burning to the respiratory tract, pulmonary edema (the buildup of fluid around the lungs), or even death. Although less common, if ingested, the corrosive might cause extensive burning or perforation in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach.

Aside from the danger of corrosives coming into direct contact with the body, some are combustible or flammable. These substances can very easily explode or catch on fire if not properly stored and handled. One more danger comes from some corrosives being incompatible with other chemicals. When incompatible chemicals are mixed or accidentally come into contact with one another, the result can be a dangerous, sometimes deadly, chemical reaction. Again, the dangers of corrosive materials demand that they be treated with care, respect, and caution.

Any worker that handles any corrosive material should always protect themselves: 

Make sure that corrosives are stored in a safe area. This not only means away from other incompatible substances, but, sometimes even away from other corrosives.

The storage area should be secured, cool, and dry.

If it’s necessary to transfer corrosive materials between containers, then make sure that the transfer is done with extreme caution and that the appropriate safety steps have been taken.

There should be appropriate ventilation anytime a corrosive material is accessed.

If it’s necessary to mix corrosive materials with water, then be attentive to avoid overfilling and spillage. It’s always best to add water in minute amounts.

Never reuse any container that previously contained a corrosive material.

Remember to follow the proper protocol when disposing of unused corrosive materials; these shouldn’t just be poured down a drain.

Remember to don appropriate personal protective equipment as per protocol. This might include chemical rubber gloves, apron, goggles, face mask, and/or respiratory equipment.

In the event an accident does occur, immediately seek first aid for the injured. The area should be closed off to prevent subsequent injuries and the appropriate chain of command should be notified. Remember, it’s too late to be cautious once an accident occurs. It only takes one mistake to produce a costly, painful, disfiguring, and potentially deadly injury.

Protect Your Business With 7 Insurance Policies

By Risk Management Bulletin

Your small business faces numerous risks every day. To protect your business, you need seven different insurance policies. Learn more about what they are and how they help you.

1. Professional Liability Insurance

A mistake, negligence or failure to perform can result in lost business or a lawsuit. Professional liability insurance covers your expenses in this instance. You can choose a customized policy based on your specific business and needs.

2. Property Insurance

The business space you own or lease should be insured with property insurance. It covers inventory, equipment, furniture, signs and other property if those items are damaged, lost, stolen or vandalized. Because your property insurance does not typically cover events like floods or earthquakes, consider purchasing separate policies for these events.

3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

After you hire employees, you are responsible to provide Workers’ Compensation insurance for them. It covers medical payments, lost wages, job training and other expenses for any employees who are injured or become ill on the job. Work injuries and illnesses like carpal tunnel, back sprains or a temporary disability can be costly, so always carry this insurance as you care for your employees and protect your business.

4. Product Liability Insurance

Your business may manufacture a product and sell it. In this case, purchase product liability insurance. It covers liability if a customer is injured or becomes ill from your product. You can customize your policy based on the products you sell as you reduce your liability.

5. Vehicle Insurance

If you or an employee is involved in an accident while driving the company vehicle, your business is liable. You could owe thousands of dollars in property damage or medical payments. Fully insure all company vehicles. This way, you are covered in case an accident occurs.

6. Business Interruption Insurance

A disaster that interrupts your business can be expensive. You may lose sales, have to relocate temporarily or be responsible for extra expenses associated with keeping your business open during the restoration period. With business interruption insurance, you can cover expenses when normal business operations are interrupted. It’s particularly important if you operate a retail store.

7. Umbrella Insurance

Sometimes, your liability insurance is not enough to cover a claim filed against you or your business. In this case, you could lose your business as you cover your financial responsibility. An umbrella policy would cover the excess liability. It provides as much as $10 million in extra liability protection and can save your business.

The right insurance products help your business avoid significant financial losses that could potentially harm your small business. Ask your insurance agent to review your policies and ensure you are protected properly

10 Resume Tips That Thrill Hiring Managers

By Employment Resources
When you’re searching for a job, every detail on your resume counts. Improve your chances of landing a great job when you use 10 resume tips that thrill hiring managers.

1. Explain short-term jobs.

There are numerous reasons to work several jobs in a short time period. Explain these reasons so a potential employer understands the reasons for your job switches.

2. Detail any employment gaps.

Whether you took time off to finish school, raise a family or travel the world, detail any gaps in your employment history.

3. Share the reasons for any career step-downs.

It’s perfectly fine to switch from a management to an entry-level position. However, hiring managers want to know why you would take pay and responsibility cuts.

4. Discuss your non-traditional career path.

Sometimes, employees take a winding path as they discover their preferred career. Discuss your journey honestly as you show hiring managers that you are reliable and ready for a new challenge.

5. Match formal education with career history.

Perhaps you attended business management school but now want to work in construction. Be sure your resume addresses why your formal education doesn’t match your career history.

6. Tell why you’re relocating.

If the address on your resume lists a different city than the one in which you’re applying for a job, use your resume to tell the hiring manager why you plan to relocate. Here’s a suggestion – “I plan to return to San Diego after a 10-year hiatus.”

7. Connect to the current job’s specs.

Instead of using a generic resume for every job, customize each one for the specific job. Include details that support why you would rock that potential job.

8. Use current and relevant references.

Before you send out your resume, contact former supervisors and co-workers to ensure they’re willing to give you a good reference. They should also be available immediately to answer a hiring manager’s questions and vouch for your performance in the job for which you are applying. Remember to not include family members or friends as references on your professional resume.

9. Verify accuracy.

It’s easy to transpose dates or type a former employer’s name wrong. Accuracy shows that you’re thorough and honest, though, so carefully proofread your resume to ensure everything is accurate.

10. Ask a skilled proofreader to review your resume.

Details matter, so ask a skilled proofreader to look for typos, grammatical errors or other glaring mistakes on your resume. The proofreader should also offer honest and forthright feedback on the information you include.

Your resume can thrill hiring managers when you follow these 10 tips. They help you land a great job.

You Should Consider Flood Insurance

By Personal Perspective

Don’t wait until the weather forecast calls for prolonged heavy rains before buying flood insurance. While this practical insurance can be purchased anytime, the policy does not take effect for 30 days. As the most common natural disaster in the country, flooding ruins millions of dollars of homes and property every year. Even so, flooding is not commonly covered in your typical homeowner’s insurance policy, making it necessary to purchase additional coverage for this costly, devastating disaster.

If you are in a high-risk flood zone, a federally regulated lender will require a would-be borrower to buy flood insurance in order to qualify for a mortgage loan. To satisfy the lender, flood insurance must be purchased in an amount that sufficiently covers the loan.

A homeowner should also buy flood insurance if he or she resides in a flood plain with no failsafe controls, such as a dam. Flood policies even pay off if the President does not declare the area a federal disaster area, which can prove to be invaluable. Because the nation’s Chief Executive Officer rarely issues such a declaration, protecting yourself is extremely important. Besides, you have to repay the federal aid you receive for home repairs related to a natural disaster so providing your own protection is the only way to ensure financial recovery suffered from flooding.

Not all homes qualify for flood coverage. For instance, flood insurance for beachfront or ocean-side property may not be available for the obvious reasons.

The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) reports that more than 20,000 communities have agreed to tighter zoning and building measures to control floods. Residents of these communities can buy flood coverage from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which FEMA oversees. As of 2009, NFIP had 5.7 million flood policies inforce nationwide.

Premiums for flood insurance vary widely, depending primarily on individual risk. In determining price, flood insurance underwriters consider several factors including the property’s elevation, proximity to bodies of water, and whether the dwelling has a basement. Flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, condo owners/renters, and commercial owners/renter.

Take Caution When Buying a Foreclosure

By Personal Perspective

Most Americans have seen ads on television for get-rich-quick seminars that teach novice investors the secrets of making money from housing foreclosure sales. In spite of all the hype, successfully buying and selling foreclosed real estate requires research, money, knowledge, experience and time. Furthermore, buying foreclosed real estate is not without risk. If you plan to try your hand at this type of investing, you need to be well-versed in foreclosure basics. Foreclosure is the legal recourse lenders or governmental agencies have to recoup money owed them because a property owner failed to make payments. The lender/agency can take the house and sell it to satisfy the debt.

Generally, the reasons for foreclosure include: 

Non-payment of a mortgage/home equity loan.
Inability to meet a balloon payment.
Failure to pay property taxes.
Inadequate insurance coverage for the property.
Inability/failure to maintain the property.

The foreclosure process involves three stages:

Pre-foreclosure – This is the period between the time the homeowner stops making payments and when the land is put up for sale at auction. Investors typically deal with the homeowner during this time.

Auction – This is when the property is taken from the homeowner and sold to the highest bidder. Either the county sheriff or a trustee handles this phase, depending on the state.

Real estate owned (REO) – If no one buys the property at auction or if the lender is the highest bidder, the home becomes “real estate owned” by the bank. Banks usually sell REO properties on the open market through a real estate agent or third-party marketing company.

The most common method of buying a foreclosed property is during a sheriff’s auction or trustee’s sale. These auctions are held on a weekday morning. Investors cannot pay with credit cards, personal checks or IOUs, and they must make a sizable deposit or pay the entire sum for the property on the spot. Typically, potential buyers are not allowed inside the house before bidding begins. The only information prospective buyers have on which to base a purchase decision is what is available through public records searches and a curbside appraisal.

A second risk in sheriff’s auctions and trustee’s sales is that the homes are not guaranteed to come with a clear title. This makes the title search a critical, necessary part of your public records research. If a previous owner with a valid claim surfaces at a later date, you can lose everything you invested.

Also, homes sold at auction sometimes have liens that weren’t erased by foreclosure, such as an IRS debt, that could wipe out any profit you thought you would see from the resale of the property. Procedural errors and court rulings also could stop a foreclosure sale after you have invested time and money. Furthermore, some states have a statutory redemption period, during which time the original homeowner can repay what is owed, regain ownership and leave you with nothing.

Despite all of these potential drawbacks, buying an auctioned home isn’t always a perilous undertaking. Homes foreclosed by reputable lenders who are the first lien holders can be a fairly safe investment. If the deal is completed properly, and you have title insurance, there’s an excellent chance of getting a good title. Properties foreclosed by a government agency, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Veterans Administration, present less risk. These auctions are conducted online through a marketing company.

Buyers are permitted to examine the homes in advance, conduct inspections and obtain title insurance. The biggest drawback to government auctions is the limited availability of homes. Consequently, available properties attract a large number of interested buyers, which makes it a very competitive market with prices only slightly discounted off current market value.

If you are considering the idea of investing in real estate through buying foreclosed properties, prepare yourself by learning the ins and outs of the process and legal issues, and gathering whatever information you can on the property and parties involved. In doing so, you’ll help to minimize the risk that is inherent with this type of investment.

Should You Include Your Life Insurance Policy In Your Will?

By Life and Health

Life insurance provides your beneficiaries with financial assistance. In addition to purchasing adequate life insurance coverage, understand if you should list it on your will.

Probate Versus Nonprobate Assets

When you die, your estate goes into probate. Probate is the process through which the executor of your estate files paperwork with the probate court to prove the validity of your will and ensure your final wishes are carried out.

Typically, any outstanding debts are paid. Then money is allocated to survivors. Of course, the executor also ensures that individuals receive any specific assets you want them to have such as real estate, art or heirlooms.

Some of your assets will not go into probate after your death, however. Life insurance is one nonprobate asset. The beneficiaries listed on the policy receive the death benefit whether the policy is listed in the will or not. This occurs because probate courts view life insurance as a contract between you and the life insurance company. You pay premiums, and the life insurance company agrees to give your policy’s beneficiaries the death benefit for which you paid.

Why List a Life Insurance Policy in Your Will

Even though your life insurance policy is a nonprobate asset, you may consider listing in in your will. Listing your life insurance policy makes it easier for your beneficiaries to  discover the policy, tell the company that you have died and receive the financial support they need.

You will also want to include your life insurance policy in your will if your estate is the beneficiary. In this case, the policy’s death benefit will to into probate and be distributed according to your wishes.

How to Choose Life Insurance Beneficiaries

You may choose whomever you wish to be your life insurance beneficiary. The policy’s beneficiary can be the same person you list in your will or someone totally different.

Popular beneficiaries include:

  • Spouse
  • Children
  • Parents
  • Charity or foundation
  • Estate

You can change your life insurance beneficiary at any time. Simply contact your life insurance company and complete the beneficiary form. Remember that because your policy is a legal contract, you cannot use your will to change the beneficiaries on your life insurance policy. Be sure to update your beneficiaries as needed to ensure your final wishes are carried out.

Life insurance is a valuable estate management tool. It can provide financially for your family or fund a charity after you die. Decide today if you will list it in your will or not, and be sure to update the beneficiaries.

Five Retirement Risks

By Life and Health

Retirement has always been a tough undertaking but in today’s tumultuous economy, it sometimes seems like an impossible task. There’s no question that countless risks go hand in hand with retirement. However, even during a recession, you can manage these risks. Here are the top five most common retirement risks and the best ways to deal with them:

Risk #1: Outliving Your Money. 

Running out of money is not only a scary prospect it’s also one of the biggest risks that all retirees and soon-to-be retirees face. In the retirement planning world, this is known as “longevity risk.” According to the Society of Actuaries (SOA), Americans are living longer, which means the risk of outliving their money is much higher. The SOA estimates that the average life expectancy for 65-year-old Americans is 17 more years for men and 20 years for women. However, 30% of women and 20% of men aged 65 will live until they’re almost 90 years old. That means many people might live up to 25 years or longer after they retire.

How to deal with it: 

As long as you save up enough money for retirement, avoid overspending and invest wisely, you should be able to avoid this problem. You might also consider taking on a part-time job after retirement or even delaying retirement a while so you can earn income for a few more years.

It’s also critical for soon-to-be and current retirees to properly manage their assets. You might consider investing in payout annuities, managed payout plans or “longevity insurance” – an annuity that does not start paying benefits until an advanced age, such as 85. Many retirees also apply for a reverse mortgage to protect against longevity risk.

Risk #2: Skyrocketing Inflation. 

Unfortunately, none of us are immune to inflation – all retirees will be affected by it. The trouble is that the rate of inflation can be difficult to predict. According to the SOA, annual inflation in the U.S. varied from 1.1% to 8.9% from 1980 to 2007 quite a large range. However, the average inflation rate throughout these years was 3.5%. Based on that percentage, a product that cost $1 in 1980 cost $2.82 in 2007. And the rate of inflation can have an even bigger impact on retirees, especially for things like health care an expense that becomes a growing portion of a retiree’s budget.
As a matter of fact, studies show that health care represents only 5% of the average person’s budget before retirement, but it grows to 10% for retirees ages 65 to 74 and increases to 15% for retirees 75 and older. On top of that, health care expenses generally increase much more rapidly than other goods and services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of medical care is nearly four times higher than it was in December 1982. In other words, health care that cost $100 in 1983 would now cost $387.

How to deal with it: 

To prepare for the effects of ever-growing inflation, the SOA says that retirees and soon-to-be retirees should invest in assets that grow in times of inflation, such as common stocks, inflation-indexed Treasury bonds (TIPS), inflation-indexed annuities, and commodities and natural resources. Retirees might also consider taking a “semi-retirement” for a couple of years before they officially retire so they don’t drain their retirement assets too soon.

Risk #3: Unpredictable Interest Rates. 

Although many consumers are thrilled about today’s low interest rates, retirees and soon-to-be-retirees aren’t too happy about it. That’s because when interest rates are low on both short and long-term investments, retirees might be forced to re-invest their money at lower rates. Plus, many soon-to-be retirees who are investing in fixed income will have to save more to build up a big enough retirement fund. While the SOA points out that government spending, inflation and business conditions all affect interest rates; it’s difficult to predict what the future holds.

How to deal with it: 

To manage the risk of interest rates, the SOA says retirees and would-be retirees could invest in immediate annuities, long-term bonds, mortgages or dividend-paying stocks.

Risk #4: Stock Market Fluctuations. 

Because it’s practically impossible to forecast what will happen to stocks, many retirees fall prey to major stock market losses. One major stock market downturn, and your nest egg could disappear in the blink of an eye.

How to deal with it: 

First of all, the SOA says retirees and older workers should limit their stock market exposure. If you do invest in the stock market, be sure to diversify your stocks and spread your money among different investment classes and individual securities. This will greatly decrease your risk. You might also consider investing in financial products that invest in stocks, but guarantee against the loss of principal, such as mutual funds.

Risk #5: Disappearing Retirement Funds. 

If your employer declares bankruptcy, what happens to your pension? If your annuity insurer becomes insolvent, where does that leave you? Many terrible things can happen to your retirement funds but there are ways to manage these risks.

How to deal with it: 

Before you invest your money do your homework. Find out your employer’s credit rating to determine if they might be at risk for bankruptcy. Look into your insurance company’s claims-paying ability rating. Of course, you are already protected from many of these risks. If your employer does go out of business, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. will insure your defined-benefit pension plan (up to certain limits.) Annuity companies are covered by state insurance guaranty funds up to specified limits which means if the insurer becomes insolvent, the claims will still be paid.

10 Way Your Pharmacy Can Make You Healthier

By Life and Health

Pharmacists spend at least six years in college learning about medicine and health. Take advantage of 10 services your pharmacy offers as you get healthier.

1. Health Screenings

Many pharmacies offer a variety of health screenings, including:

  • Anemia
  • Blood pressure
  • Cholesterol
  • Glucose
  • Prostate
  • Skin cancer
  • Thyroid

After you get the results, visit your primary care physician for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.

2. Sexual Health

Sexual health is important now and into the future. Your pharmacist can offer advice about safe sex, recommend contraceptives, provide pregnancy tests, give you emergency contraception and talk about important vaccines.

3. New Medicine Service

A new medication that treats asthma, high blood pressure or another chronic condition can be confusing. The New Medicine Service ensures you’re taking the medicine properly and understand what it does and any side effects.

4. Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Services

If you take more than five medications per day, sign up for Medication Therapy Management. During your 30 to 60 minute session, your pharmacist will review your medication to ensure each one is essential, taken correctly and  affordable. Ask your health insurance company if they will cover your MTM session.

5. Diabetes Classes

One of the most prevalent diseases in the United States, diabetes affects 25 million Americans. At your pharmacy, you can receive diabetes management and education, medication counseling, blood-glucose meter training and glucose testing.

6. Vaccinations

You may be familiar with the flu shot given at your pharmacy. However, you can also receive other vaccinations such as:

  • Gardasil (HPV vaccine)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Meningitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Tetanus
  • Zostavax (Shingles vaccine)

While your primary care physician will need to give you a prescription for these vaccines, you can also talk to your pharmacist about which vaccines are right for you.

7. Unwanted Medicine Disposal

Instead of tossing your unwanted or expired medication in the trash or toilet, give it to your pharmacist. He or she will safely dispose of it.

 8. Minor Ailments Advice

When you’re suffering from a cold, rash or earache, visit your pharmacist. Get medication recommendations and other tips to help you feel better and heal quickly.

9. Health Lifestyle Advice

While you will want to see your primary care physician for ongoing health issues, your pharmacy team can offer a variety of advice. Gain healthy eating tips, weight loss advice, smoking cessation tools and information about chronic conditions.

10. NHS Health Check

Only your doctor can diagnose diabetes, dementia or another chronic condition. However, your pharmacist can screen you for certain conditions if you’re between the ages of 40 and 74.

Your local pharmacy offers these 10 beneficial services. Use them as you get healthier.