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cedar valley business monthly
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Volume 3 l No. 11
www.cvbusinessmonthly.com
BUSINESS MONTHLY columns Page 6
Wartburg College Women make themselves at home in higher education
Page 9
Jim Offner Women play key role in business community
Page 11 Main Street Waterloo Men and women often bring different skills to the job
Page 25 University of Northern Iowa Incubator concept can benefit young, old businesses
BUSINESS MONTHLY staff directory EDITORIAL CONTENT Nancy Raffensperger Newhoff nancy.newhoff@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1445
ADVERTISING Jackie Nowparvar jackie.nowparvar@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1527
Jim Offner jim.offner@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1598
Sheila Kerns sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1448
Cedar Valley Business Monthly is published monthly. It is a free publication direct-mailed to more than 6,500 area businesses. For distribution, call Courier Communications at (319) 291-1527 Contact Cedar Valley Business Monthly at P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704.
BUSINESS MONTHLY on the cover BRANDON POLLOCK / Courier Staff Photographer
Jackie Kugler pauses Sept. 3 at a Kugler Construction job site in Cedar Falls.
BRANDON POLLOCK / Courier Staff Photographer
Jackie Kugler, who handles executive duties at two family firms, works on a project at her office in Waterloo.
Home away from home
Jackie Kugler juggles duties at two family firms By JIM OFFNER jim.offner@wcfcourier.com
WATERLOO — Jackie Kugler has her hands in more than a family business. She’s helping to run two, actually. Kugler, who for several years has run Cover All Advertising & Promotion Inc., recently took on a more active role in her family’s other firm, Kugler Construction, a part of Kugler LLC. Both businesses recently moved under one roof, at 1610 Jefferson St., which helps facilitate Kugler’s responsibilities to both. Kugler shies away from being called a boss or, really, any other haughty title. Teamwork, she says, is what makes
her family tick, and there’s no reason to think it shouldn’t be a guiding principle for the family businesses. She says she’s not unaware that some people might not be accustomed to a woman handling the controls of a construction business. “I was very torn between continuing on with my business and seeing the need to be full-time in the construction business, so it was a very tough decision for me,” she said. “There’s a lot of juggling, being spread just a little thin.” Kugler said, though, she long ago learned to delegate. For example, when she shifted more of her time to the construction business, she left day-to-day management of Cover All Adver-
tising & Promotion to Glenda Husome, who has served as a full-time sales representative for two years, and part-timers Terri Martin and Breanna Hovey. The move brought Kugler from a situation in which she was working with an all-female team to one in which she was working with a staff of men, led by her husband of 29 years, Bill; and her 28-year-old son, Billy. “I’m a minority in Kugler Construction, but they don’t treat me that way,” Jackie Kugler said, laughing. “it’s a family business. We’re a team. Everybody has a part contributing to the success of that team.” The construction company builds custom homes, so it,
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kugler From page 3
therefore, focuses on a clientele that is as much family-oriented as anything else, as well, Kugler added. “We’re working with families who are building their dream homes,” she said. “We build to an individual customer’s specifications. They’re talking to one of us multiple times a day, sometimes. So, you’ve got this relationship that you’ve established with the customer. It’s really kind of a cool thing.” And, in many cases, that relationship doesn’t end when the last nail is driven or the last square foot of sod planted, Kugler said. “We’ve got several of those customers where the relationship is ongoing.”
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Bill Kugler also is a plumbing contractor, which allows the company to embed itself even more into the construction process, Kugler said. “We’re working with people on a day-to-day basis because, basically, we’re building their dream home,” she said. “They might write something out on a napkin and we can hold the napkin up to the house that’s built, and that’s their dream home.” The company had three houses going up in various subdivisions in September. Kugler said she has found a way to balance her responsibilities between the construction company and Cover All Advertising & Promotion, which provides corporate apparel and ad specialty items that showcase company logos. “Sometimes, it’s a matter of
looking at which deadline has to be met first,” Kugler said. “I delegate, so if I’ve got something I need to hand off to Glenda, we have a very good understanding in terms of when I can’t do this or that. She’s good at knowing we need it now. Communication is absolutely essential all the way around.” On the construction side, Kugler and her son work together in deciding how to make sure projects meet deadlines. “I still manage to make time for being involved in my church and my family, too,” Kugler said. “Those things are really important to me.” Husome says her boss’ ability to balance her various responsibilities is crucial to maintaining a smooth working relationship. “I think that because Jackie is so relational, it mixes very well with
Manpower on ‘Top Companies for Women’ list WATERLOO — Manpower was the only employment services company to once again be named to Pink magazine’s 2009 “Top Companies for Women.” Pink’s annual ranking recognizes organizations that make women’s advancement a part of everyday business. “Pink’s listing recognizes Manpower’s ongoing dedication to fostering a culture diverse in thought and experience, and honors the women, and men, who provide these strengths,” said Jill Katuin Branch Manager of Manpower’s Waterloo office. Pink solicited nominations from U.S.-based companies and evaluated respondents on: n Power — the number of women in board seats and C-suites, and with P&L responsibility. n Pipeline — leadership training, mentoring and coaching programs designed to retain and advance talented women. n Pay — evidence of pay equity, including the percentage of women in the top fifth of the organization’s payroll. “All companies would do well to adopt the best practices demonstrated by firms like
Manpower, who are committed to advancing women in the workplace,” said PINK CEO and founding editor Cynthia Good. The list of the Top Companies for Women 2009 is featured in the magazine’s August/Sep-
tember/October issue. More information can be found at www.pinkmagazine.com. Manpower has been a part of the Cedar Valley community for 61 years and serves several area businesses.
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who I am, too,” Husome said. “Our office, it’s just a real warm feeling and people just want to hang out and stay. It’s just real conducive to comfort.” But, team members also know how to get projects done right and on time, Husome said. “We work really hard and we
october 2009 are able to just kind of cover for each other,” she said. “We read each other’s minds and help in areas and oftentimes don’t even have to ask. It’s just so nice to have that kind of relationship with who you’re working with, but even more important, who you’re working for.”
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Older employees will drive changes to workplaces, experts say The Associated Press
An ergonomics expert says American companies are going to need to make a lot of changes as they adjust to an increasingly gray-haired work force. A recent survey by the Pew Research Group predicted that 25 percent of American workers will be 55 or older by 2016, up from nearly 19 percent today. An older work force is going to be a fact of corporate life, and in order to retain important intellectual capital and avoid agediscrimination lawsuits, companies need to figure out how to change office life to accommodate silver-haired employees, said Lance Perry, a senior risk engineer for insurance company Zurich Financial Services in Fort Worth, Texas. Perry has been analyzing company ergonomics, or the science of beneficial workplace design, for more than 25 years, and recently helped write a report on how to best accommodate and retain aging employees. Some basic recommendations: ■ Make buttons on phones,
instructions on printers and other visual signs larger so aging eyes can read them more easily. ■ Voice-activated software is going to be more and more in use, Perry said, as typing gets harder for older hands. ■ Forget highly-polished, slick lobby floors in office buildings. Think about changing to carpet or floors with more friction. Floors should be all one height to try to fend off tripping over unexpected inclines or steps. ■ More face-to-face meetings, rather than communication by e-mail. Older people also often prefer face-time instructions when dealing with newer technologies. ■ Provide incentives for wellness program participation. An older population is more in need of nutritional guidance and physical activity to maintain fitness, he said. ■ Mentoring with younger employees is also important to pass corporate knowledge from one generation to the next. Older employees are more likely to have been with a company for a long time.
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Higher education offers opportunites for women Do you like to learn and strongly believe in the importance of higher education? Then explore employment opportunities in colleges and universities. The enterprise of higher education is a business that employs a wide array of skilled individuals. The percentage of women Deborah L. employed in Loers higher eduDeborah L. Loers cation in the is vice president United States as for student life and staff, adminis- dean of students at tration and fac- Wartburg College. ulty has steadily Contact her at deb. loers@wartburg.edu increased and is now more than half of all those employed. U.S. higher education includes a wide range of options: two- and fouryear schools, including private non-profit, public and for-profit schools. Each college and university is a small community, populated by students, faculty and a wide
variety of individuals who keep it running day to day. At residential colleges, such as Wartburg, development offices raise funds and employ marketing and communications staff, as well as individuals who help organize outreach events and mailings to alumni. Other individuals are involved in the academic record keeping of the institution in the registrar’s office. The admissions office recruits students. Financial aid offices work with students to help them pay for their education. Many colleges and universities offer health and counseling services to students. Those with athletic teams employ coaches and a variety of support staff. Additional services include the business office, food service, housekeeping, residence life and maintenance. Women also should consider the need for part-time faculty who fill in for permanent faculty who are ill or on leave or because demand is high for a particular class. A Ph.D. is usually required for these positions, but not always, depending on the area of study
and the applicant’s credentials. Because community colleges prepare emergency medical technicians, electronics specialists and many other technical and human service workers, these schools are in need of individuals willing to share their skills by teaching. The position may offer an interesting part-time job, or you may find a true calling. Educational communities offer job opportunities in a setting considered by many to be unparalleled in access to free educational and cultural events, surrounded by other employees who care about the larger purpose. Although education jobs may not pay as much as those in the private sector, this is offset by a hospitable work environment; relative job stability; health, retirement and educational benefits for employees and
sometimes to their children. Notice the lingo: Registrar, admissions, development, mission? Every field has its own language, so review the Web site to learn the terminology of higher education and the particular institution. Some colleges serve traditional 18- to 21-year-old students, while others may serve “non-traditional” older, working adults, and some prepare students for technical jobs As with any job application, homework is required. Read the advertisement carefully and emphasize the skills that most directly apply. Go beyond your job title to describe the people, technical or financial skills you have. Volunteer activities may be very relevant if they illustrate the required skills, including interpersonal and organizational skills.
A cover letter is the applicant’s opportunity to make the link between previous and current jobs and the job in higher education. It is an opportunity to explain your interest in the particular institution. Show your knowledge of the institution as it applies to the job and your skills. You must be able to convey why you are a good fit and how you will help the school advance its mission. Most importantly, consider the higher education job sector if you truly enjoy working with learners, young and old. You will be working in an environment where there is a shared passion and the opportunity exists to develop your interests and skills. Salary is important, but so is the work environment, and higher education is still considered to be one of the best.
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Talking about finances critical for family health How does wealth affect children? And how and when do we teach our children about wealth? In families, there can be a delicate balance between protecting the younger generations with the money (“If I pay for my children’s college education, they can graduate without debt”) and protecting them from the money. (“Have I done too much for my children?”). In many families, money is at least as difficult to discuss as sex. It’s an emotionally charged issue. Having Karla R. Hoppes is principal and it and not havinvestment services ing it – both circumstances manager with Hogan Capital Management have the potenInc. in Waterloo. tial to create Contact her at conflict. Family (319) 233-2683. members have different ideas about what money means, and what should be done with it.
Generation gap
Financial crises notwithstanding, we live in a culture of consumption. The trappings of our own success can lead our kids to feel entitled, rather than empowered. They may feel that they are special because of who their parents are or what their family has, rather than being respected for their own work or efforts. It has not always been so. Adults who experienced the Depression have very different attitudes about money. Money meant safety and security and was not necessarily reflected in clothing or cars. Family members who have earned the money look at it differently than those who receive it. The earners know what it took to get it; the receiv-
ers are just used to having it. Most people grow up without “the birds and the bees” talk on what money means in the family. This lack of communication is often a source of disconnect. The unintended messages can come across as: “It’s very important, dear ones; we just don’t talk about it.”
Open the conversation — at any age It’s critical to have the conversations. The tricky part may be coming to grips with your own feelings about money. A trusted advisor, sensitive to your unique values and goals, can help you work through your feelings and facilitate your meaningful conversations. You can discuss money with your children without providing them a detailed financial statement. The discussions need to be age appropriate. Young children can learn that money is a reward for work. An old-fashioned piggy bank may be the most sophisticated tool you will need. For older children, a family philanthropy fund could open up the dialogue. With even a small amount of money, say $50 or $100, you can involve family members in decisions about the causes or groups that could best carry out the missions that are important to them. The thoughtfulness with which your children will approach these decisions may surprise you. At any age and at any time, the most successful tactic is to share your hard-earned wisdom with the people you care about. It may be your most important legacy. (Thank you to my colleague Cindy S. McGhee of Charleston, W.Va., for her contributions to this article.)
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October 2009
Strong women, flexibility a win-win for business It’s no secret that women have significantly impacted business, and impacted it for the better. Women are in the work force to stay and many are looking for rewarding careers, not just jobs. Companies that embrace women as valued members of their workforce discover many benefits. Schmitt In the tele- Steve is president of communicaSchmitt Telecom tions indusPartners Inc. in try, women Waterloo. Contact are able to use him at (319) 232their innate 3701 or sschmitt@ skills and abil- schmitthouse.com. ities in various ways. The first way is by providing exceptional customer service. When used
as the initial and on-going link to customers, women tend to listen more and see problems and solutions differently than their male colleagues. They also understand how to appeal to women customers. When customers feel good about their initial conversations with an organization, they are more likely to have a positive perception of the company as a whole and stay with a company longer. In industries that utilize both field technicians and office staff, it’s important to have a good team that supports each other’s efforts. When a customer has the opportunity to have a qualified technician working with them on-site and also receives friendly, understanding customer support from the office, it’s a win-win for everyone. Secondly, in addition to
being valuable on the customer service side of things, many women possess the needed skill set to run the day-to-day operations and finances of a business. Women influence many decisions at home and on the job. Because of their dual roles, women tend to consider the needs of more categories of stakeholders and examine a wider range of management and organizational performance. Our experience has been that women in operations also tend to pay more attention to audit and risk oversight and control than men. Additionally, not only do women have a lot to offer a business, but also a business has a lot of offer women employees if it is flexible. Women are valuable to their employer, family and the community. Finding a healthy balance between all
three is another win-win for the woman and the business. When women are allowed the flexibility in their work schedule to care for their families and be involved in their community, their employee satisfaction is boosted and they tend to stay with an organization longer. “As a working woman and mother, I often feel the pull between priorities at work and home,” said Emily Nolting, Schmitt Telecom Partners controller. “It’s important to me to be able to go to my children’s school programs and volunteer in the community. I have always been grateful for the opportunity to work flexible hours and not have to miss out on those things.” Furthermore, in this day and age of technological advances, it’s becoming easier than ever for businesses to accommodate
flexible work schedules. For example, with new VoIP (voice over the Internet) technology, businesses are able to connect any employees who work from home and have their telephones and computers function like they are right in the office. VoIP also allows businesses to connect multiple offices over the Internet without paying any long distance charges, thus lowering costs. Finally, they can share the initial technology costs, because of the unified messaging process where both voice mails and e-mails may be stored on the same server. Women are valuable to any business. From customer service positions to finance and operations directors to owners, a business is stronger if it embraces the gifts and abilities women can bring to its employment team.
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Women play key role in Cedar Valley business community It’s time to learn from the ladies in the Cedar Valley business community. And there are quite a few teachers out there. According to the National Association of Women Business Owners, there are more than 10 million women-owned businesses, representing the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. economy. This month, Cedar Valley Business Monthly takes a look Offner at the female Jim is the Courier leaders of the business editor. local business Contact him at community. jim.offner@ It’s no surprise wcfcourier.com. that, in an era in which women have long track records in leadership roles in politics, media, entertainment and countless other fields, they’re making their marks as entrepreneurs. The Cedar Valley is rife with women in leadership positions, and still not even in the prime time of their careers. Sindee Kleckner is a year into her position with Main Street Waterloo, having taken over the position from an eminently able predecessor, Terry Poe Buschkamp. Amber Jedlicka, only 30, is director of Landmark Commons of Friendship Village. Allison Parrish, 31, is communication director of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa. Brooke Burnham, 30, is director of convention development, Waterloo Convention and Visitors Bureau. Christy Justice, 31, is vice
president/wealth management department at Lincoln Savings Bank. Sheri Purdy, 36, is rehabilitation manager of Wheaton Franciscan Health Care’s fitness, wellness and therapy programs. The list goes on, ad infinitum, and extends all the way up to the top of state government, to Lt. Gov. Patty Judge. This month’s featured subject, Jackie Kugler, is perhaps typical of the women who are guiding the Cedar Valley business community. Kugler started her own business, built it into a successful concern and ultimately placed the day-to-day operations of the company in the capable hands of her full-time sales representative, Glenda Husome. Kugler stresses a firm family-first commitment, which she openly acknowledges spreads to her business philosophy. Clients aren’t simply paying customers; their relationship extends beyond completion of a Kugler Construction project. There’s a lesson to be learned there. Business in the Cedar Valley is conducted on a tightknit basis on many levels, from banking to construction to retail. Women play no small role in nurturing that philosophy. As you page through this month’s Cedar Valley Business Monthly, notice the diverse contributions of women to the fabric of local commerce. There’s some wisdom and acumen that become apparent and, ultimately, benefit the region’s business community as a whole.
Edward Jones plans recruiting event WATERLOO — Edward Jones’ Women’s Initiative for New Growth Strategies is hosting a recruiting event for women seeking careers as financial planners
at 5 p.m. Sept. 30 and 11:45 a.m. Oct. 1 at 914 Decathlon Drive in Waterloo. Call Dixie Kehoe, at (319) 2369810, to RSVP.
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OCTOBER 2009
Field of mortuary science drawing more women By Christine Erie
Several years ago, I attended Worsham College of Mortuary Science, pursuing a career in funeral service. Men outnumbered the women in my class. Today, almost 60 percent of mortuary programs are women. The funeral profession is changing from a field dominated by men and becoming much more diverse. One might think that when it comes to the physical labors of the funeral profession, it may not be fitting for women. Others tend to believe women have an advantage over men through connecting with families differently. Although the number of women in funeral service is on the rise, I am still greeted by families with “We are waiting for the funeral director,” or “Can you tell the funeral director Mom didn’t wear much
makeup?” In conjunction with this, I would like to touch on a few increasing trends that I am experiencing as a funeral director. The popularity of personalization is huge. People are bringing in items for display during the visitation which reflect the deceased’s interest, hobbies and passions. Even the clothing is not traditional dress or suits. Advanced funeral planning is becoming more and more common. This allows the individual to plan their own funeral service with their wishes; it also can alleviate financial burdens on family members. Cremation is becoming more common, as well. Due to its growth, it is becoming more accepted in religious faiths. Even with cremation, one can still have a visitation and a funeral service. This is where I see fami-
lies use the most personalization. We are also meeting consumers’ needs through personalization. We offer a wide variety of memorial folders and memorial videos (which is a DVD displaying photos, usually during the
visitation.) I display many good traits in communication skills, compassion, a desire to comfort those coping with a death, as well as organizational and event-planning skills. Overall, it is my privi-
lege to help those who are most often at the most difficult time in their lives. Christine Erie is with Parrott and Wood Chapel of Memories in Waterloo. Contact her at (319) 232-3235.
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Men, women may be different, but both can get job done Doing research for this article, a quick Google search told me that men and women are different — something I think I had already grasped by the third grade, when I learned the boy I had a crush on believed girls had cooties. So, for this article, I decided to apply some male/female business stereotypes and generalizations to my personal experiences. There were two points that caught my attention. One was the assertion that Sindee women tend Kleckner to ask a lot is executive director of Main Street of questions before begin- Waterloo. Contact her at ning work while men roll (319) 291-2038 or kleckner@ up their sleeves mainstreetwaterloo. and jump right org. in. The second is that women tend to be more collaborative in the workplace and put relationships first, while men routinely challenge and expect to be challenged. I am one of the people who tends to ask questions before proceeding. I think this can be a good thing, since one of Franklin Covey’s “7 habits” is to start with the end in mind. It is important to identify your ultimate goal and devise a strategy on how to get there. Does this cautiousness lead to better decisions? Well, there is a delicate balance between risk, calculated risk, cautious decisionmaking, and analysis paralysis. I think we have all worked with someone who charged ahead without any consideration to the consequences or they didn’t perceive how their actions would impact the rest of the organization. On the other end of the spectrum is analysis paralysis. Those people who are so wrapped up in asking all the possible ques-
tions and trying to dot every “i”and cross every “t”, that they can’t move forward or don’t act in a timely manner. A good leader (regardless of gender) will be able to balance risk-taking and planning to make the best decision. The second conclusion is that women build relationships and value collaboration while men like to be challenged. My observations have shown that business owners in the downtown blend these characteristics for the best benefit. In the downtown environment relationships are essential to success. Downtown businesses benefit from repeat customers who have experienced quality and exceptional service and have built a relationship with the business owner and employees. However, being a downtown business is also a challenge, and healthy competition is just as valuable. Downtown business owners recognize that having competition in their own service or industry drives new business to the area, which ultimately benefits everyone downtown. Competition also encourages business owners to continue to strive to be the best and create new ways to maintain their existing customer base and draw new customers. I have attended various trainings about management, conflict resolution and leadership, and I have also worked with a variety of people who represent different races, religions, ages, lifestyles and genders; and the one thing I know for certain is no one fits into one mold or stereotype. It looks like those characteristics identified with both genders have their benefits and drawbacks and the best solution is to blend them whenever possible. So, when you are working with someone of the opposite sex and you are getting particularly frustrated, just remember the best solution will probably come about from working together.
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october 2009
Good interior designer can save time, money By JULIE MEYERS
One of the most frequent phone calls that I get is from people who first outline a decorating challenge or need that they’re experiencing, and then follow up with the question “Is that something that you do?” It seems that folks are often unsure of just what an interior decorator can do for them, and not infrequently are intimidated about requesting a decorator’s services. It’s not at all uncommon for people to express anxiety that a decorator will be too pushy, too ‘artsy’ or just plain too expensive. The reality, however, is that a good interior decorator can actually save you money, time and headaches, by making wise recommendations, avoiding expensive decorating mistakes and taking care of your project’s details for you. A good decorator needs to be part artist and part engineer, as well as able to function as a project manager, psychologist, detective and handyman.
He or she must begin by spending a significant amount of time evaluating your wants and needs, both from an aesthetic and a functional standpoint, and then must be able to create and implement a beautiful design plan that will meet those needs. Along the way, your budget and timetable will be critical considerations for your decorator to keep in mind as well. The best way to begin the search for an interior decorator is to solicit recommendations from people you know who are familiar with them. Friends who have used a decorator’s design services and contractors who have worked with them on projects are two of your best sources for referrals. These people can give you the most realistic perspective of what a particular decorator is like, and what they can and will do for you. Ask about the decorator’s personality, work style, how they charge for their products and services and what quality and price ranges they can offer. Also, find out if the decorator
you are considering will work with any type of project and any decorating style, or if they specialize in only one area or style. Choose someone whose personality and services seems to best fit the needs that you have identified for yourself. In preparation for working with a decorator, you need to do a little bit of self-evaluation, so that they can do their job in a way that will truly be tailored to you. Make a list of what you see as your needs, likes and dislikes. If possible, create a file containing pictures of things that appeal to you. In addition, couples should talk with each other about how their expectations are alike and different. Prior to beginning actual work on your project, it also is
important to decide on a budget range that you are comfortable with. A decorator who is conscientious about client service will work very hard to accomplish the best possible results within your budgetary comfort zone. However, she/he can’t be expected to “shoot in the dark”, so defining your budget early on will make the time you spend with your decorator most productive for both of you. Once you’ve established a relationship with an interior decorator, what should you be able to expect from them? Every single interior decorating project is unique, but there are a few standard expectations that can be applied to every one. First and foremost, your decorator absolutely must
be a good listener, in order to make recommendations that are right for you. She also needs to be willing and able to come to your home. Design work and some consultation can take place in a studio, but decisions really need to be made in your own home’s lighting and alongside the things that are already in place there. You need to expect that your decorator will gather pertinent information, develop a design plan, present it, hone it and help you through the decisionmaking process. Once decided upon, she will do the necessary legwork, place the orders and see your project through to completion, leaving you to relax and enjoy the beautiful results!
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Women face unique financial challenges It’s unfortunate, but still true, that if you’re a woman, you face a variety of challenges in the workplace. And these issues translate into potentially serious problems for you as you save for retirement. To avoid these difficulties, you need to take action — now. Let’s consider some of the facts that underlie and illuminate the formidable tasks that women face: Lower earnEilderts ings — Over isJana a financial adviser the past few with Edward Jones decades, women in Cedar Falls. have made great Contact her at strides in the (319) 277-6583. quest to achieve earnings equality — but they’re not there yet. Women currently earn, on average, about 80 per-
cent as much as men, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Less time on job — Women are more likely than men to take time away from their careers to rear children or care for aging parents. Consequently, women typically work 32 years, compared with men’s 44, according to a study by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. Lower income in retirement — The total median annual income for women 65 and older is 43 percent less than the median income for men of similar ages, according to the Older Women’s League, a research and advocacy group. Longer life spans — Women live an average of seven years longer than men, so they are more likely to outlive their financial assets. So, there you have it: Lower earnings, extended time away
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from work, lower retirement income and longer life spans. Together, these factors point to a huge need for women — whether married or single — to do some serious investment planning. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take. Here are just a few:
Pay yourself first
Every time you get paid, turn around and write out a check to whatever savings or investment vehicle you have chosen — before you pay any other bills. Better yet, take advantage of payroll deduction, bank authorization or systematic investment plans so that your money is automatically invested before you even receive it. Such a plan, however, does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets.
Invest for growth
your employer’s 401(k) or by making IRA contributions. If you can’t deduct an IRA contribution, consider a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not deductible, but a Roth does offer tax-free income at retirement under certain circumstances. If you are self- employed, consider opening a Simplified Employee Pension Plan (SEP) or other qualified retirement plan that may offer you a business tax deduction.
Many studies have shown that women tend to invest more conservatively than men. Yet, to achieve your retirement goals, you may need to put some of your investment dollars into “growth” vehicles, such as stocks or mutual funds. Historically, stocks have appreciated more than other types of investments. More importantly, other types of investments, such as CDs or Treasury bills, may not even keep up with inflation, so you You’re in control could end up losing purchasing By following the steps power if your portfolio is not well described above, along with any diversified. others that make sense for your individual situation, you can Take full advantage of take charge of your own financial future. It will take some time and available retirement plans effort — but the ultimate goal is Save on a pre-tax basis through well worth it.
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october 2009
Women make up large part of dental team By JEFF SMITH
What better time than the present to focus on our health. One cannot open a newspaper or listen to a newscast without hearing the latest discussion over health care. Studies show that a good preventative approach will minimize our overall health care costs. Well, dentistry is not immune to the outside forces that drive consumers and your dental team must face these challenges. We are challenged with issues such as affordability, accessibility and changes in Medicine. Each age group comes with its unique set of challenges, as well. Our youngest customers demand a friendly, “painless” approach. The teenagers, while thinking they would rather “sleep in” and miss their appointment, still need us to be respectful and direct when it comes to their care. The more mature adult segment builds great, trusting relationships with our office staff, yet still demand nothing less than a professional experience. Females also have a distinct set of challenges to face, whether it is as a patient or part of our office staff. Women make up a large part of the dental industry as dentists, professional support staff and consumers. Like many dental and medical offices, Edwards and Smith Family Dentistry also is staffed with mostly women. We have a team of 13 qualified, professional women who have worked in our office for an average of 14 years. An allfemale staff is a great benefit to our office, since women have a long tradition of being excellent caregivers. Our staff spends a lot of time talking with the patient not only about their teeth, but about social and medical needs, as well. They have to educate patients on the importance of good oral hygiene. They
build a relationship with each patient in order to give quality, individualized care. Most of the women find that both the professional and personal relationships are rewarding. These relationships help provide a positive atmosphere in which to work. As a dental professional, flexibility is one of the best benefits. Whether it is scheduling around a sick child or vacation time, it is easy to accommodate with an organized plan. Let’s not forget the importance of brain stimulation. These women are constantly learning new skills and information through continuing education classes that help them maintain their credentials and help in career advancement. Our dental practice could not survive without the dedicated, professional women who work incredibly hard on a daily basis to ensure quality dentistry is provided in a positive work environment. The patients of Drs. Edwards and Smith are lucky to have such a great group of women taking care of them. The positions the women hold in our office are varied and challenging. Our front office staff must not only greet every patient with a smile, but keep up on the daily paperwork, chart updates, insurance claims and most important of all, the schedule. The schedules for both the hygienist and the dentist change by the hour. We must find time for emergencies as well as reschedule last-minute cancellations. The hygienists can occasionally spend more time with the patient, updating health histories and providing home-care instructions than is allotted on the schedule. Motivating the patient and expressing the importance of regular dental care is vital. The chairside dental assistant may, on days, have a tough assignment. Visiting
with patients, making them comfortable, explaining procedures and answering general questions about treatment is important. She must also stay one to two steps ahead of the dentist at all times, anticipating what the dentist will need at the time of treatment to ensure each patient has a topnotch experience. All of this training, experience and cooperation is necessary in treating our “complete female patient”. Younger female patients that are undergoing active orthodontic treatment (wearing braces), need special instructions on proper home care, may need additional fluoride treatment and more frequent recall visits. Our middle-aged females are more
interested in cosmetic options such as whiter teeth. As our patients mature, daily medications can cause mouth soreness and dryness. Medications taken for the treatment of osteoporosis may also impact your dental treatment. Later in life, autoimmune diseases can have an impact on your dental health. Discussing all medications with your dentist is key to your dental success and may prevent potential complications. So you can see, having a caregiver that is compassionate and professional will prove to be a great asset to a dental practice. Finally, the hours spent helping those in need may be the most rewarding. When asked why they work so hard, one of the most popular responses
was “because of the people I am helping”. One of those rewards is seeing patients return with improved oral health due to the dental staff’s instructions. It is an extremely satisfying experience for staff members when patients realize the direct correlation between one’s oral and general health. As one can see, dentistry today faces many challenges with changing economics, health care reforms and constant innovations in technology. The well-educated and caring dentists and staff are invaluable in these times, when trying to provide the best service. Jeff Smith is with Edwards and Smith Family Dentistry in Waterloo. Contact him at (319) 232-9023.
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Friendships play major role in life
Bartering can be useful for small business
october 2009
I was recently asked, “With all that’s going on in your life, how do you relax?” I didn’t think much about it until I realized over the past several months that I don’t relax. It’s hard for me to “wind down,” with so much going on, especially being a woman in business these days. Anji Barnard Although is chief information I don’t have officer at Farnsworth children, my Electronics in husband and I Waterloo. now have a fast- Contact her at (319) growing puppy, 234-6681 or www. so between thatpartsplace.com. potty training and learning new commands, then 50-plus hours at work, grocery shopping, keeping up with the house (not to mention we’re selling one and building another), etc., there doesn’t leave any time for me. Then it hit me: If it weren’t for a good friend, I would never take time out. My friend — we’ll call
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her “Emme” — and I talk usually about 10 times a day, if not more. Even if it’s a quick phone call saying, “I’m on my way to pick up some milk, just wanted to say hi!”, I get a tremendous amount of relaxation from it. It’s not only wonderful, but also very important I feel, to have woman companionship, a friendship that is different from your spouse and different from your children. It’s great to be able to talk to someone who understands and feels the frustrations of everyday life, struggles, but also someone to laugh with. It seems like whenever I am down, she brings me up, not necessarily by what she says, but just her voice. There’s a trust there. Emme and I recently got together for a girls’ Saturday morning and pinky swore we’d do it monthly. I really hope we keep our promise. It was peaceful not to worry about anything or anyone, to just have a quiet breakfast together, talking about current events, upcoming football games, how the weather has been so strange this summer, the conversation went on and on. She makes me smile and when I
do, I feel better about myself, better about my life. A recent study by Dove indicated that 70 percent of women feel prettier because of their relationships with female friends. For decades, stress tests focused solely on males, believing that all humans would respond in the same manner. When these same stress tests were finally conducted on females it was discovered that women don’t have the same, classic ‘‘fight or flight’’ response to stress that men do. According to research, women under stress have the need to ‘‘tend and befriend.’’ We want to tend to our young and be with our friends. Time with our friends actually reduces our stress levels. Some other interesting findings: Married men live longer than single men, yet women who marry have the same life expectancy as those who don’t.
However, women with strong female social ties (girlfriends) live longer than those without them. Also, women without strong social ties risk health issues equivalent to being overweight or a smoker. Hear some bad news? Call a girlfriend. Have something great to celebrate? Share that celebration with a friend. Want to feel prettier, be less stressed, be healthier and happier? Spend some time with your BFFs. Recognize your own need for friendships and fill that need with time and memories together. I told Emme sometimes I feel like I’m the ring leader in a circus. She said that was OK because she’s the seal with the ball on her nose! It’s the constant reminder from her that you have to have fun in life, don’t get too stressed out, but it does happen. When it does, be thankful for your friends, your girl friends, I know I do.
The Associated Press
It may be the oldest business strategy in the world, dating back to prehistoric times. Today, bartering can be a great way for a small business to either utilize free time during a slow cycle or dispose of excess inventory without taking a markdown on its balance sheet. “The market right now is perfect for bartering, whether you’re a landscape artist, restaurant owner or a printing company,” said Bob Reiss, author of the recently published book, “Bootstrapping 101: Tips to Build Your Business with Limited Cash and Free Outside Help.”
See barter, page 24
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cedar valley business monthly
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october 2009
Mom! Where’s my shoe? (12 tips to surviving your morning) The kids won’t get out of bed, your daughter’s left shoe is nowhere to be found, you rush to drop the kids off at your child care provider and as you get back into the car that’s when you notice s o m e o n e’s sticky jelly handprints have left a lasting impression on your shirt. It comes Marilynn Pierce around every is children and family day without services director at fail. … Morn- Exceptional Persons Inc. in Waterloo. ing. Also Contact her at known as “the race to get (319) 232-6671 or marilynn.pierce@ everyone where episervice.org. they need to be, with the things they need and yourself to work on time.” And by the time you get there, it seems like you’ve already run a marathon and the day’s only just beginning. Sound all too familiar? Try a few of these helpful tips to make your morning run a bit more smoothly: 1. Give yourself five minutes of quiet before you wake up your child or start your day. 2. Think about what you know about your child. What will help make the morning more pleasant? Consider the following ideas: a. Play calming music. b. Put a glass of orange juice on your child’s night stand so he can get sugar into his system right away. c. Turn the light on in the room five minutes before waking your child. d. If your child enjoys tickling, use that as a strategy to wake him or her in the morning. It makes waking up fun! e. Plan to give the slow-towake-up child three wake-up calls. 3. Get things ready the night before like clothes, shoes, coats, gloves, backpacks, and the ever-elusive keys. 4. Create clear and consistent
rituals. Perhaps use a picture chart showing what should happen. Instead of nagging your child to keep moving, point to the chart. 5. Keep it simple. Use shoes without laces and pants without belts until your child is really good at tying shoes and buckling belts. 6. Leave your child with the same caregiver every day to make this transition easier on your child. 7. Tell your caregiver about significant things happening at home that are important to your child. 8. Plan to arrive at the child care program about the same time every day. That way, your child can plan ahead and think about what will be happening when you get there. 9. Have a good-bye ritual so your child knows you are leaving. Tell your child when you will be back (for example, after nap time and group play.) 10. Avoid lingering too long when dropping your child off with your child care provider. A child who knows you are going to leave can’t begin to relax until you really
do leave. 11. Trust your child care provider to help your child settle down once you leave. 12. Leave a picture, a scarf with your scent, or some other “lovey” with your child so that he or she will have it for reassurance. If you find part of your morning stress is resting in your relationship with your child care provider, and you’re just not sure how to communicate with him or her, contact CCR&R of Northeast Iowa for help. Your local CCR&R is a resource to support you with all your child care needs from help finding a child care provider to being a resource for you all along the way. More helpful, free, parenting resources can be found by visiting Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Northeast Iowa online at www.neiowachildcare.org or by calling (800) 475-0804. EPI, founded in 1957 in Waterloo as Exceptional Persons Inc. is a private, nonprofit organization created as a catalyst for community based services for people
with developmental and other related disabilities. Today’s EPI fosters the active community participation of people with disabilities through residential and transportation services, day activity centers, community living, as well as works to expand child care options and to improve the quality of child care
available for families in Northeast Iowa through its Child Care Resource and Referral program. EPI serves over 5,500 children, adults, and families in Northeast Iowa a year and employs more than 400 dedicated individuals. For more information, visit www.episervice.org or call (319) 232-6671.
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Road to immunity can go through nature Great immunity is what many of us are hoping for as fall approaches and winter is just around the corner. We start to think about what we can do to help with the sniffles, sneezes and coughs. R e c e n t trends show more people are turning to natural supplements as remedies for those nasty germs. A year ago, a number Marilynn of the chilBartels dren’s cold and is with TnK Health Food Store in cough medications were Waterloo. Contact her taken off the at (319) 235-0246 or tnkmjb@yahoo. market, which com. has sent parents scrambling to know what do. Shop at your local health food store to find natural solutions without harsh side effects when used properly for both children and adults. There are many things that affect our immunity. In fight-
ing off these germs, an important part to a strong immune system is having a well functioning digestive system. Digestive health is connected to every function of our body. Probiotics are the good or “friendly” bacteria, also known as microflora, that keep our digestive systems running smoothly in assisting to digest our food properly. Probiotics may be taken on a regular basis but are especially beneficial for those who have taken antibiotics. Antibiotics strip the digestive track of the good bacteria. Unless that good bacteria is replaced, it may leave us vulnerable to more illness, since we don’t have this good bacteria to fight off more disease. Yogurt is considered a source of probiotics, but since it needs to stay chilled and contains sugar (or artificial sweeteners), calories and fat, it’s not always healthy or convenient. In addition, because of harsh stomach acids, most probiotics may not survive the journey through our stomach into
the intestine where it is best utilized. That is why many people rely on probiotic supplements. Studies have also shown probiotics given to infants in daycare centers had fewer absences, fevers and tummy aches as well as less prescriptions for antibiotics. Probiotics may produce antioxidants, improve nutrition through enhanced breakdown and absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids and synthesize the B vitamins. There are many strains of probiotic cultures. Probiotics are available in powder or pill form. Visit your natural health food store to obtain the best quality probiotic. The adrenal glands are another important part of our body. Their job is to produce hormones, which affect
how our bodies handle stress. Stress can have a big impact on our immunity. Nasal cleansing or washing can wash away bacteria so germs cannot set up camp in the nose, which may result in allergies or a runny nose. The expression “You are what you eat” is well said. When we eat more natural foods, we can feel better. Concentrating on whole grains, along with more fruits and vegetables can go a long way. For better immunity avoid eating too much sugar. Avoid artificial sweeteners and products containing high fructose corn syrup. Choose healthy oils in place of hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, which are often found in packaged foods. Make healthy food selections your choice and see for yourself the benefits it can reap for you.
october 2009
barter From page 21 Not only can a business benefit from exchanging goods and services for other goods and services without handing over precious cash, the swap can be good advertising if the other party is pleased with the trade. It’s also a great way to get full retail value for your product or service without having to discount the price. While bartering can be done on a local or personal level, Reiss suggests using trade groups, like the International Reciprocal Trade Association, or online networks to facilitate the exchange. In some instances, products or services are designated value points that can be blended with cash for an even trade. Reiss points out that while bartering transactions are taxable and should be reported, your accountant will still applaud the healthier balance sheet and freecash flow that can result.
october 2009
Plan for holiday shopping now The Associated Press
Holiday shopping may be a few months away, but some consumers are still paying for last year’s purchases with interest and other fees tacked on. The nonprofit agency Consumer Credit Counseling Service gives these tips for pre-holiday shopping: ■ Start shopping now. Many retailers offer early discounts or free shipping to encourage shopping before the December rush. ■ Earn extra money. If you can’t make room in your current budget for holiday spending, consider getting a part-time job, working overtime or selling items of your own. ■ If you make a list in advance, you’ll be prepared to look for items on sale. Having a sense of your total shopping budget will also make it easier to set aside money to cover the expense. ■ Shop online. Check coupon Web sites or bid for sought-after items. Collectible or hard-tofind gifts are likely less expensive before November.
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Are you the chicken or the egg? As the manager of the Innovation Incubator on the UNI campus, I am constantly reminded of the jokes associated with managing an “incubator.’’ Most of them have to do with poultry punch lines of various sorts. Typically I laugh along with them and then explain the incubation concept of providing Cedar Valley entrepreneurs with serDan Beenken vices, facilities, capital and a culture to is the Innovation help them grow their businesses while Incubator manager reducing their risks. with the University While we are certainly here to serve of Northern that early stage business start up comIowa's Business pany, we are just as important to exist& Community ing firms poised for growth, or those Services in Cedar Falls. Contact him at Iowa companies experiencing opera(319) 273-4322 or tional pains. In fact, experts recognize dan.beenken@uni. that the current recessionary environedu. The Innovation ment has in many ways, been harder on Incubator is a existing businesses than on new start program under the ups. During a recession, established auspices of the College of Business firms are often forced to retrench, Administration at UNI. streamline and sometimes even downsize in order to stay competitive. In
“Business incubation should be thought of as an array of services designed to support companies.”
some cases entirely new business models emerge from this ‘re-thinking’ process. If your company is less than nine years old, this may be an entirely new experience. While poor economic conditions can be harmful, they can force innovation and creativity that can be parlayed into a new spinoff or an expansion. During the last economic downturn, for example, Apple invested heavily into the creative technology that would become the iPod. At the end of the recession, it took competitors several years to catch up, during which time Apple dominated the market. Business incubation should be thought of as an array of services designed to support companies at every stage of their business life cycle. Some business incubation programs, including the two incubators at UNI, offer access to advanced market research, new market development and even operational audits. These are critical services for
existing companies and can be customized to address unique business circumstances. According to the National Business Incubation Association, the main trade organization for incubation facilities, this approach really works. According to a 2008 NBIA report, 87 percent of all incubator-graduated firms are still in business after five years, compared to only 44 percent of traditional startups. Business incubation can and should be thought of as a valuable service for existing companies as well as a program for the much touted startup entrepreneur. So, if the river or the recession have played a role in harming your business operations, remember that customized incubation services are available to support more than Cedar Valley startup companies. Regardless of your place on the egg to chicken continuum, the resources and facilities of UNI’s Business Incubation Programs are here to help.
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OCTOBER, 2009
Work/life balance benefits entire organization Employers frequently talk a good game about work/life balance. Some even truly make it a priority. These days, however, all employers should be paying attention because work/life balance applies to employees of all ages. Quite simply, work/life balance is recognizing and making room for the demands of life. Achieving Jill Katuin it in the work- is branch manager place is a dual of Manpower in responsibility of Waterloo. Contact her employers and at (319) 233-8473, (319) 230-3600 employees. or jill.katuin@ W h i l e employees of na.manpower.com. all age groups require work/life balance, each generation has its reasons. Here’s a quick look at who we’re talking about: n Traditionalists (or the World War II generation) are workers born before 1946. Members of this group, which comprises about 5 percent of the work force, are now in their 60s or better. This group wants to strike a work/life balance to make room for travel, families, giving back to the community or pursuing hobbies. n Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, comprise 45 percent of the work force. The oldest members of this generation, known for valuing meaningful work and career opportunities, are beginning to retire this year at age 62. An estimated 78 million boomers are projected to follow suit over the next 20 years. This large group has varied reasons for wanting to balance careers and life outside of work. Some are part of a “sandwich generation” required to simultaneously care for children and aging relatives; others are interested in devoting time to volunteerism, while still others want time to pursue longheld interests. n Generation Xers are workers born between 1965 and 1980. This group comprises 40 percent of the
work force. It members are busy raising families, building careers and volunteering. Unlike the two previous generations, Generation X members are known for working to live instead of living to work. n Millenials (or N-Gen) are workers born after 1980 — now 10 percent of the work force. Its members want important, interesting work but also want time away from work for themselves and to serve others. Community service has been the norm for this group throughout high school and college. From youngest to oldest, employees have different needs at different times in their lives. Employees themselves are making it clear that work/life balance is desirable. In fact, work/life balance was the fourth most important contributor to job satisfaction (behind compensation, benefits and job security) in the Society for Human Resource Management 2007 Job Satisfaction Survey. What can employers do? Progressive employers recognize that work/life programs can deliver employee loyalty, productivity and cut down on expensive turnover. Here are some ways to help achieve work/life balance: n Start at the top. If work/life balance isn’t important to top management, the rest of the organization won’t take it seriously. n Pay attention. Develop programs and policies that are in synch with your specific company, employees and industry. Success comes from carefully listening to what your employees (of all generations) want and learning from the experiences of other companies. n Create and promote volunteer
programs. Volunteerism is work/life balance. What’s more, volunteering is something that all four generations in today’s work force have in common. n Share responsibility with employees in making work/life balance work. Demonstrate trust that work/life balance programs will be used properly. n Develop family-friendly employee activities. Including families sends a signal that employees have a stake. n Encourage employees to use their vacation/personal time. Paid time off is the original work/life balance. Yet, more than a third of U.S. employees don’t use their full vacations, according to the 2004 research report “Overworked in America” from the Families and Work Institute. What can individuals do? Individuals aren’t off the hook! Here are a few things that individuals should do: n Leave your cube! Sounds like a no-brainer, but work/life balance won’t occur without the life part. This can be something as basic as spending time with family, developing a hobby or getting a pet. n Volunteer. Your community needs your time and talents in more ways than you ever imagined. A balance between career and the rest of life naturally includes serving others. n Understand your employer’s policies (i.e. family leave, flex time, etc.) and stay abreast of all changes. It’s a brave new world. The employers with the best people win — that’s no cliche, it’s a fact. In a world marked by a fiercely competitive business
environment and a constantly catchphrase, it’s a concept that benchanging economy, people are efits the entire organization. the differentiator. The winners in today’s battle for talent are those who understand what the different generations want and work to give it to them. These winners also recognize that work/life balance is more than a
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Career tips for women looking to play in the IT field Teacher, nurse, occupational therapist — these are all careers traditionally associated with professional women. While women can, and do, pursue careers in fields dominated by men, the numbers are still skewed. For example, according to the National Council of Women & Information Te c h n o l o g y only 26 percent of professional IT-related jobs in the 2006 U.S. work force were Liz Siver held by women. is central region As a woman market development who has worked director for Microsoft. For more in technology information, visit for many years, I have become www.microsoft.com. a vocal advocate for women considering careers in IT. Over time, I’ve refined my thoughts on how to help women move into this industry to these five tips that can guide and inspire: n Find a mentor — It’s never too early to begin seeking out mentors. Finding a trusted friend who is experienced in this field can provide you with valuable information. A mentor can be anyone and doesn’t even need to be someone you know well. If you have access to someone who you believe will
be a helpful mentor, just ask them. More often than not, seasoned professionals are extremely willing to share their knowledge. n Take advantage of area resources — Professional organizations provide many valuable resources, so be sure to take advantage of them. Becoming involved with groups like the Technology Association of Iowa (http://www.technologyiowa.org/) can be a great way to network with others and learn more about the technology industry. Also, a professional organization is an ideal place to find a mentor. n Educate yourself — Never lose the desire to learn. The technology industry changes daily, so do your best to stay ahead of the curve. Education doesn’t always have to come in the form of a traditional classroom or seminar. In fact, with social media, learning
has become easier with a world of information at your fingertips. Following tech influencer’s Twitter feeds and prominent blogs can be a great way to learn. For instance, Geek Girl Blogs provides a venue for women to share experience about working in a socalled “man’s world,” and is loaded with information to educate and inspire. n Don’t let people tell you “you can’t” — My father taught me that in any situation, attitude is everything. Whether it’s an interview, work meeting or just a chat over coffee, the way you portray yourself is crucial. A great attitude and determination will be recognized and help advance you in your career. n Surround yourself with intelligent people — The people around you can be great resources. Whether they are colleagues or
friends, they can teach you a lot. Networking also is a great way to expand your support system. These are just a few tips to help you get your technology career started. For more guidance, seek out a peer group, such as a local chapter of an organization like Women in Technology (WITI) or
organize one of your own. And remember, by seizing new opportunities, you can advance in your career, change perceptions and broaden the playing field for professional women in technology.
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Women, business, volunteerism: A winning combination A 2006 study done for Womens Way of Philadelphia found that corporations that want to develop their women employees should encourage and facilitate volunteer opportunities. Essential skills such as problem solving, coaching/mentoring and public speaking were developed and improved t h r o u g h volunteerism. The study was conducted to assess when, how and Anne Nass why women Anne Nass is in professioncommunications al leadership roles choose to coordinator for the Volunteer Center participate in of Cedar Valley. volunteer and Contact her at community(319) 272.2087; based oppor- msannee@aol.com or anne_nass@ tunities outside vccv.org. of their careers. The goal was to examine the link between early volunteerism and the development of “power skills” that were improved during a woman’s professional career. An additional purpose of the study was to persuade businesses and individuals to value and advance nonprofit involvement as a cost-effective path for professional development benefiting the business, the employee and the community at large. Participants in the survey were overwhelmingly identified as volunteers. While all were well established working professionals, most were highly involved in more than one community activity. Those who were at the peak of their careers were also leaders in their chosen non-
profit activities. Most of these high-performing women had been involved in the community for the majority of their lives and were highly influenced by family members (sometimes, over several generations), small town environments and early community service opportunities. Participants often became addicted to volunteerism during college, graduate school or early in their careers because of a need to network (for business or socially) or a need to “give back.” Most indicated a desire to pass along to their children a commitment to community service. An important correlation between skills acquired and perfected through early nonprofit involvement and participants’ advancement in their professional careers was also found. Specific, technical business skills, such as financial and human resource management and strategic communications, were gained as participants learned to apply influence, gain cooperation from broad-based associates and build leadership skills and self-confidence. Some study participants attribute their confidence and business success more to their nonprofit efforts than to their professional experience or formal training. The aforementioned “power skills” in the business community included leadership, communications skills, and resource development. The study found that: n Eighty-three percent of participants reported that they acquired, improved or developed their leadership skills due to volunteer participation, and 78 percent reported improvement in
their communications skills. n Sixty-two percent of survey respondents said that they enhanced problem-solving skills; 57 percent improved organization/multitasking; and 53 percent enhanced their marketing skills. n Some 50 percent of participants have been involved as volunteers for more than 5 years, and 22 percent for more than 10 years. n Nearly 40 percent of participants started volunteering before they were 16 years old, and over 55 percent were volunteering by the time they were 30 years old. The study emphasized the benefits of volunteerism for women and provided these recommendations to the corporate community: n Promote volunteerism — it is a cost-effective tool for career development and training. n Recognize the “power skill” set gained from volunteer activities when hiring women and evaluating them. n Make it easy for employees to volunteer — the payoff is an energized, educated and wellrounded group of employees. n Participate as a corporation in volunteerism because it builds healthy communities which in turn enhance business opportunities. More recent studies show these trends and highlights: n Women were more involved with their communities in 2008 than in 2007, with an increase of about 2.5 million who worked with neighbors to fix a problem or improve a condition and an increase of 1.8 million who attended public meetings. n For the neighborhood
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engagement rate, 8.1 percent of women worked with neighbors and 9.7 percent attended public meetings in 2008. n The volunteer rate for women remained relatively stable, with 29.4 percent volunteering in 2008 and 29.3 percent in 2007. Volunteerism is a rich education and career development tool for professional women. Corporations and nonprofits can work together to enhance the skills of women both in their volunteer positions and their professional lives. Nonprofits can use these findings to develop appropriate volunteer opportunities for women in business and then promote those to corporations. Corporations can enhance their own professional development opportunities by encouraging female employees to volunteer in the community. A first-ever federal report reveals that in every state, women volunteer for community service at a higher rate than men, and women with children and women who work have the highest volunteer rates of all. The report “Volunteering in
America: State Trends and Rankings,” produced by the Corporation for National and Community Service, also showed: n Females volunteer at significantly higher rates than do males in every state; nationwide, women with children under age 18 volunteer at a significantly higher rate (39.9 percent) than do women without young children (29 percent), and women who work volunteer at a significantly higher rate (36.1 percent) than women who do not work (27.2 percent). n The top volunteer activities by category are mentoring, tutoring, coaching and refereeing (35 percent), fundraising (29.7 percent) and collecting, preparing, distributing or serving food (26.3 percent). The Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley works with volunteers, nonprofits and local corporations to best utilize and enhance volunteer skills and involvement. For information on volunteering or becoming involved as a business partner contact Lauren Pelleymounter, executive director at 272-2087.
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Control, restraint are important in dealing with crises Receiving unsettling news about your career or family isn’t the easiest thing to handle. Your face may flame with the quick rush of blood to your head while a roaring sound reaches a crescendo between your ears. It’s so loud, it’s hard to hear or think straight. And at times like these, everyone expects Karel Murray you to be strong and act is an author, humorist and business like a reason- trainer who speaks able adult. A nationally and perfectly nor- internationally. She is mal reaction the author of “Hitting from others, Our Stride: Women, Work and What but I find that Matters, Straight it impedes my Talk — Getting ability to think Off the Curb,” coclearly. author of “Extreme It’s just so Excellence” and difficult to publishes a monthly be mature. I online newsletter know I’m not Think Forward, which has thousands of the only one subscribers and that has periodically envied numerous articles in the screaming local, regional and national publications. toddler, writhing on the floor in the grocery aisle, demanding the treat they know they deserve. A mature adult just doesn’t do that. At least that’s what society and my mother taught me. What if we want to make a fuss? How can we release our anxiety and physical reaction to emotionally charged situations appropriately? I watched an employee progress through the stages of a nervous breakdown as she tried to balance her career and a crumbling family life. Her face seemed to dissolve and begin to resemble the horrified look so famously captured on the painting “The Scream.” She perceived she had nowhere to turn, so she disappeared into the dark tunnel of psychosis. The process of standing
by, trying to get her to accept medical assistance and failing miserably left me feeling like a boiling cauldron of volcanic acid, ready to erupt at my inability to effectively assist her. It’s the lack of control that unsettled me. I’ve learned through the hard knocks of life that there are a slew of situations that we can’t control. A few of these include: n The professionalism of our co-workers. n Reckless attitudes of the teenager. n Insidious diseases that rack a loved one’s body. n The speed and sobriety of the “other” driver. n The chance meeting of a person who changes your life when least expected. n A grade school teacher’s attitude toward recess or dodge ball. n Gravity. n Delaying indefinitely the normal process of aging. The hardest lesson I’ve had to learn is that all I can do is take responsibility for my own emotions and reactions and be accountable for how I act and react to these situations. That’s maturity for you. I have options. It’s as simple as that. What I choose to do will have an effect on future events. My mother had a pacemaker. Her heart function, erratic and tenuous, required the device in order to control the severe fluctuations of her heartbeat. My stomach flipped when I
first heard the news. However, listening to the hope and positive reaction of my mother to her impending surgery calmed me. Her main concern was that her family not worry, but instead, be prepared for any possible outcome of the surgery, be it positive or negative. Quite simply, she conveyed that worrying won’t necessarily change the outcome, so why do it? Laughingly, she indicated that she would rant and rave about her situation, but that would only create havoc with her heart. The potential negative consequence of harm to her body became her emotional pace maker. Ahhhh. If I want to scream and kick my feet in the grocery aisle, I can. However, I need to be prepared for the consequences of my actions. If I had wanted to be completely negative about my mother’s medical condition, I could have. But my attitude will impact others and possibly create a situation worse than the one that already exists. Over the years I’ve understood a fundamental formula: Action = Reaction and Consequence. As a result, I’ve learned wisdom, restraint and joy. I guess that is what makes me the adult I am. And that is something I should be grateful for. Discover where your own emotional strength and inner courage reside and turn it on to
full power. Evaluate each tion, absorb the bad news and own emotional
inner courage. Turn on your emotional difficult situagood and the pacemaker to full power and discover your thrive. It’s the best any of us strength and can do.
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Advice on jewelry: Know before you buy or sell By DAVE CUTLER
We have all seen the television ads offering you to mail your gold to someone you will never see or have even heard of, and presto, you get a check. Many of these offers might be legitimate, but all I can tell you of is the ones I hear about are from customers who didn’t realize there is a face-to-face option to sell old gold. One such experience was from an elderly man whose brother is a customer of ours, and he sent three of his gold rings from years past in and got a check for $18. He could have gotten an estimated $100-$350 at the store. Gold is weighed and then sold by weight and purity. The weight is measured in grams (31 equals 1 ounce) or penny weight (20 equals 1 ounce) and purity. On purity: 10-carat gold is 41.7 percent pure gold; 14k, 58.5 percent; 18k, 75 percent; and 24k, 99.9 percent. It’s not really complicated. Gold-plated and gold-filled items basically have no resale
value for their metals content. Buying or selling diamonds, however, is much more complicated , especially when you add into the equation that there are treatments man has created that are temporary and fool you into not getting your money’s worth, whether you are buying or selling your diamond. Technology now allows humans to improve the “whiteness” of a diamond by irradiating it, or get rid of visible flaws by removing them with a laser and then filling the hole with a glass-like substance. In both instances, exposure to sunlight or any ultraviolet light source will turn the diamond darker, back to a less-valuable state; it sometimes makes it worthless completely, leaving the buyer not feeling as good as when they purchased what they thought was a diamond at a steal of a price. It may have been a “steal”, but only for the seller. When buying diamonds or selling them, a good deal is not as simple as price versus size. It never has been that simple, but
especially now, with the tricks technology can play on us all. A good example: Two weeks ago, a 30-year jeweler in Des Moines whom I know bought a $12,000 diamond off of the street and, just like a retail customer, got excited about what a good deal he thought he was getting. He fell for the story, rather than just pay attention to the facts and got stuck with a $280 fake. To make a long story short, buying or selling diamonds requires you to do business with someone you trust, not someone who you haven’t heard of, or is in or out of business all time. There is usually a good reason for either. You just won’t find out until after the sale, when it’s too late. Buy the nicest diamond you can that has no visible flaws or yellow/brown color, but stay away from the extremes. You don’t need a flawless diamond, and you don’t want a junker just because it’s cheep; stay somewhere near the middle of the road from what nature has to offer, and your diamond will still be a pinch better than the aver-
Consider extra insurance on jewelry NEW YORK (AP) — Do you have expensive jewelry lying around at home that you worry could be stolen? Maybe you’re concerned about losing it? If so, you probably should consider extra insurance because your homeowner or rental policy doesn’t likely cover the entire cost of replacing your most valuable items. Here’s what to consider: ■ CHECK YOUR POLICY: Find out how much jewelry your homeowner’s or renter’s policy includes and what circumstances are covered. ■ CONSIDER A FLOATER: If you have items worth more than you’re covered for, consider buying an additional policy using a “floater” or “rider” for their replacement cost,
which will also cover lost jewelry. For floaters, insurers typically charge a percentage of an item’s value and don’t levy a deductible. ■ INSURE THE ITEMS YOU WEAR: Many people think they don’t need extra jewelry insurance until they get engaged and
own a valuable ring, says Salvatore. But she advises insuring any items you wear regularly because wearing them increases the chance of losing them. She also recommends covering anything worth more than $1,000 and anything irreplaceable or of sentimental value.
age that is sold in the U.S. If you have questions feel free to call Precieux art Jewelers in cedar falls 319-277-0717 or you can read more on our Web site,
www.thediamondstore.com. Dave Cutler is with Precieux Arts Jewelers in Waterloo. Contact him at (319) 277-0717.
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cedar valley business monthly
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october 2009
Surviving the recession: Planning, perseverance, attitude There has been lots of talk in the past year or so about the recession and the negative impact it has had on nearly everyone. I’m sure the recession has touched everyone in some way — some more negatively than others, of course. Some people, businesses, and organizations seem to be surviving the recession better than others. It seems to me that those who Mark Witmer are surviving is executive director the recession, of North Star whether recov- Community Services ering from iniInc. in Waterloo. tial difficulties, Contact him at (319) m a i n t a i n - 236-0901 or www. northstarcs.org. ing a relative status quo, or even prospering, have at least three things in common. And, it doesn’t seem to matter whether we are talking about individuals, businesses or organizations. As I have learned as I have studied individuals, businesses and organizations, the primary practical approach to managing any potential problem is planning. Those who are successfully dealing with the recession seem to have a plan. Plans involve thinking ahead, acting in a strategic way toward a specific goal, and positioning one’s self, business, or organization to maximize opportunities and ameliorate threats. In the past, I may have rushed to implement plans based solely on what I thought we would like to do regardless of economic conditions, competition, or potential risks associated with the plan. Looking back, this method could have been disastrous. If the economic conditions that exist now had existed then, they very likely would have been disastrous. My planning now includes not only what we would like
to do, but also a practical analysis of potential risks, an understanding of the economic environment that surrounds us all, and a realistic assessment of our financial situation. Each individual, business, and organization has strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that impact their overall planning. I have also learned that another essential quality to surviving the recession is perseverance. The economy will not recover in a short period of time, but eventually, it will. Individuals, businesses and organizations should take a similar approach. The recovery will be slow, but steady (even though we may feel that we are taking two steps back for every one step forward sometimes). The important thing is to continue moving forward, even if it feels like baby steps; in another word — perseverance. Jim Collins, the author of “Good to Great,” discusses in detail the importance of building momentum. He describes this concept as “Turning the Flywheel”. The analogy basically involves getting the flywheel started – one small step in front of another sometimes with great effort. Once the flywheel starts, continue to build momentum through further progress. “Keep pushing,” he says. The flywheel will begin to move faster; each turn builds upon the last. Eventually, the flywheel (you, me, our business or organization) gains
momentum. Getting the flywheel started and keeping it going takes perseverance. Maintaining a positive attitude is perhaps the most essential element to surviving the recession. A positive attitude helps us cope with difficulty. Generally, people with a positive attitude adapt better to changes and rebound quicker to adversity. People with a positive attitude seem to be able to turn bad luck into an opportunity — they tend to be more apt to see the silver lining more easily. Recently, a close friend became unemployed due to downsizing in the company where he worked. Though he has been continuously employed full-time since our college days in the late ’70s, he nevertheless began the process of planning his new unexpected future. Amazingly, though he has been dealt a difficult hand, he is carefully planning his future: developing strategies, contacting people, maintaining flexibility concerning his expectations and considering possible options for career changes if necessary. He is working hard at getting some momentum, to get some initial successes (to him, an opening for which he is qualified or an interview is a success). He has a positive attitude overall, which is difficult to maintain when you are unemployed. He gets up every morning determined to make progress toward his goal of employment once again.
My friend was the inspiration for this article. He has been planning his future, is showing great perseverance, and continues to have a positive atti-
tude. I have little doubt that he, and others like him, through planning, perseverance, and a positive attitude, will land on his feet.
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cedar valley business monthly
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october 2009
Starting a business requires planning, solid advice If you’ve ever fantasized about quitting your job and starting a business, you’re certainly not alone. However, it’s definitely not something to do on a whim — you’ll need time and good advice. A business startup requires parallel planning in advance John Englin for your busiJohn Englin is a ness and percertified financial sonal finances. planner and That’s because investment adviser representative at business owners — even Lincoln Savings Bank those who in Waterloo. Contact are acquir- him at (319) 2331900. ing ongoing businesses or starting their own companies on the cheap — quickly find their business and personal finances are inextricably linked. That means that before you plan the business, plan your finances first. Here are some basic steps to consider right now:
Get some advice first
You need not one, but two sets of financial advice when starting a business. The first involves the viability of your business concept. You should understand your business idea inside and out before you launch and what your new company’s immediate and long-term cash needs will be. The second set of advice involves your own finances and how prepared you are for what will surely be a major lifestyle transition. Because new business owners frequently underestimate their new business’s expenses starting out, they can find themselves funding those business needs out-of-pocket. That means less money for dayto-day living expenses as well as long-term planning for retirement. That’s why it’s critical to consult a tax and financial expert such as a certified finan-
cial planner professional at the on their business in the context of their overall financial life outset. and ask themselves a series of Get rid of your debts questions: With the possible exception n Is the business going to be of mortgage debt, there’s very your primary source of personal little “good debt” in the life of a wealth and daily cash flow? businessperson. So while you’re n Is it a side business? researching your business con- n Do you expect the business to cept and putting together your pay for your retirement? own financial plan, start cutting n Do you want it to provide back and erasing as much credit other financial benefits? card and adjustable-rate debt n Do you want to pass it on from your personal life as pos- to family members or sell it to sible. The credit crisis is mak- existing employees or outside ing it tough for any business buyers? The answers to these quesowner — even experienced ones — to borrow money at attrac- tions figure importantly into tive rates. You’ll have the most the decision, along with other flexibility when you owe as little key factors such as what type of business you’re starting, its risk as possible. factors, current tax laws, and Work on an emergency fund regulations such as workman’s While it’s wise for everyone compensation. to have 3-6 months of cash set aside for basic living expenses Plan your health care and in case they lose their job or face other basic benefits a medical emergency, emergency funds are particularly necAutomatic benefits are the plus essary for new business own- side of working for someone ers. Startups can be particularly else. When you’re working for expensive, and most businesses yourself, you become your own are not profitable from day one. HR department, and chances are Plan a more extensive emergen- you won’t be able to match your cy fund for yourself and for the old employer’s buying power. If business as well. you support a family with these Start thinking about your legal benefits or if you have particubusiness structure: lar health concerns, you need Your personal financial situ- to price the out-of-pocket costs ation and the kind of business of such benefits before starting you’re starting should deter- your own company — dependmine the legal designation of ing on the business and the cost your company. of those benefits, you might Before choosing a busi- want to rethink your plans. ness structure, such as a sole proprietorship, S or C corpo- Price disability coverage ration, partnership, Limited You might have short-term disLiability Partnership (LLP), ability coverage as part of your or Limited Liability Company current employee benefits, but (LLC), owners should reflect that will likely end once you quit
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your job. You should price longterm disability coverage based on your present working salary so you can qualify for the highest
possible benefit. Disability coverage is critical for self-employed people since they’re their own support system.
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cedar valley business monthly
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october 2009
Being organized among keys to success Morning: As I make my break- my list before everyone goes to As a woman in business, I experience firsthand how much fast in the morning, I mentally lunch; this way I reach more peorun through my day to determine ple and reduce the need for callorganization which snacks and such I need to ing back. Thank goodness I have that requires take with me. Since I save a little my spreadsheet with contact info on a daily basis. time with this multi-tasking, I and notes so I can save the time Therefore, I have just enough time before my of searching and remembering wanted to share 7:45 a.m. meeting to answer yes- our last conversation. my thoughts Afternoon: I make time for a terday’s urgent e-mails. I want to on organization make sure and help others stick delivery before my next appointby walking you with their plan if they only get to ment, which allows for another through the day of a business Jessica Crouch answer e-mails first thing in the in-person contact. Once again, morning. I arrive at my meeting this saved the time of phone tag woman, me. Jessica Crouch is Shaklee director a couple minutes early to net- and led to more business. Now Hopefully you can iden- with Organized for work with the members, which I find room in my day for meYou!. Contact her crosses a couple phone calls and time because I can not help othtify with some at (319) 504e-mails off my list; it also pro- ers unless I take care of myself of my day and 6689 or jessica@ videds a new prospect without first. Since I also collaborate with realize how organizeanywhere. the time required for cold calling my hypnotherapist on a promuch organizagram, we save an extra meeting and such. tion you already When I return from the meet- by discussing these details after have in your life. Seeing this success may give you the motivation ing, I spend the next hour or so our session. Evening: I now have a networkcrossing some more calls off to achieve more.
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ing function that quadruples as a volunteer opportunity, dinner and time with family and friends. Including multi-purpose activities in my schedule allows me to experience many of the things I love without compromising my schedule or my sanity. The drive home gives me a little time to digest my day and unwind. I arrive just in time to locate the number for my last appointment of the day: a conference call. Although I cherish my inperson contacts, I can not deny the convenience of gathering many people in many locations with modern technology. Speaking of technology, I also have to thank my cell phone for helping me communicate throughout the day when my plan does not go according to plan. For that pur-
pose, I have also created the habit of including a contact number with each appointment in case I need to call. In the course of one day as a woman in business, I utilized multi-tasking, prioritizing, scheduling, networking and contact management, to name a few. Does organization help you efficiently and effectively work toward your goals each day? If you would like more ideas to that end, contact me for a free consultation (in person, over the phone, via e-mail), speaking and training needs, tips, or gift certificates. Remember, getting it done with help is better than not getting it done at all. With a little bit of organization, every day can be like “a day at the beach�.
october 2009
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cedar valley business monthly
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PAGE 39
New business partner adds new outlook Established in 2004, Good Things has embraced many changes. The most recent transition Good Things has gone through is becoming a family- owned business in a struggling economy. I joined my mother-in-law, Katie Hildman, Lindsay over a year ago. Hildman The opportunity to become is co-owner of Good Things Antiques & co-owner was Gifts. Contact her at brought to my (319) 232-3405 attention, so or www. my husband, goodthingsiowa.com. Kyle, and I relocated from Des Moines so I could fulfill her dream of being a business owner. My experience in customer service and education in management and entrepreneurship made this
business a great fit. I had to quickly learn all aspects of the existing business, while adding my own fresh new ideas. Owning a business can have its ups and downs, especially during these difficult economic times. As retailers, we need to take into account that consumers want to spend their money very carefully. We put extra effort toward purchasing decisions and try to buy quality products at reasonable prices. ‘Good Things.’ prides itself in offering a pleasant shopping experience in a home setting, which will give customers an idea of how things might actually look in their home. Offering a wide variety and making sure inventory is unique are two things we strive for. On the other hand, because times are tough, we are just trying to keep our head above water. Owning the property where our
business resides can be beneficial, will in turn entice other entrepre- Cedar Valley. but not without its many chal- neurs to plant their seed in the lenges. One of the biggest issues for us right now is property taxes, Find all your latest news in which have doubled over the past five years. This and many other expenses small business owners incur may create havoc on their budget. While living in the Des Moines area, I would frequent many of the locally owned shops and boutiques, many of which I found to be very successful. When the opportunity surfaced to become part owner of an antique and gift shop in Waterloo, I did not hesitate. Although, Des Moines is a larger market, I saw similarities in the vision of the Cedar Valley community and their efforts to revitalize local businesses. If we, as consumers, continue to take the time and effort to support local businesses it will initiate the growth of our local economy. This
Wall Street Journal to charge for phone access NEW YORK (AP) — The Wall Street Journal plans to start charging as much as $2 a week to read its stories on BlackBerrys, iPhones and other mobile devices, expanding the newspaper’s effort to become less dependent on its print edition. The mobile fees will be imposed in the next month or two, according to Rupert Murdoch, chief executive of the Journal’s owner, News Corp. Murdoch mentioned the upcoming fees during an investor conference in New York. More details about the Journal’s new fees are expected to be disclosed soon. The Journal introduced a free “Mobile Reader” application for Blackberrys in August 2008 and began offering it for iPhones about five months ago. The newspaper advised users the mobile application would remain free for limited time. Unlike most U.S. newspapers, the Journal has long required a subscription to read most of the stories on its Web site. The strategy has paid off so
far, with the Journal boasting more than 1 million online subscribers. Now Murdoch is trying to generate more revenue through other channels, to help offset a steep drop in advertising during the past few years. He intends to charge for online access to News Corp.’s other newspapers, which include the New York Post and The Times of London. Journal readers subscribing to the newspaper’s Web site can currently access it on their phones without an additional charge if they use a mobile browser to navigate to the
material. Subscribers to the Journal’s print edition will be charged $1 a week if they want the mobile reading application, Murdoch said. The $2per-week fee will apply to mobile readers used by people who don’t already subscribe to the newspaper. The New York-based company also is considering some fees to watch movies and TV shows on Hulu.com.
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Hotel room prices off 17% in 2009 LONDON (AP) — The average price of a hotel room worldwide dropped 17 percent in the first six months of 2009 over last year, according to a Hotels. com Hotel Price Index. The drop in the average was driven by drops on all continents. In North America, prices were down 17 percent. Prices in Europe fell 16 percent. The index tracks prices paid by customers of 78,000 hotels at 13,000 locations around the world. Hotels.com has been tracking the index since January 2004. Hotels.com is part of Expedia Inc. Its shares rose 21 cents to close Monday at $23.27.
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october, 2009
Women rate their car-buying experiences Women-Drivers.com LLC has published its first national brand report after receiving thousands of reviews from women about their purchasing, browsing and servicing experience at car dealerships in the United States. The market research company has released the Women Satisfaction Index, or WSI scores, by top individual brands. The consumer rating company recently featured in the Wall Street Journal, ABC News and USA Today, connects women and families to womenfriendly car dealers. Getting reviews from female consumers is free for all dealerships. Chrysler, Mercedes and Lexus were showcased in the top 5 of each rated experience. On the site, individual dealerships’ scores range from 1 to 5. Dealerships with scores of 3.80 to 5 with a minimum number of reviews are recognized on the site and in the search engine as Certified Women-Drivers Friendly Dealers. Sixty-one percent of the reviews captured are from a quad-state area including Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and Maryland.
Purchasing Chrysler dealers received the highest WSI ranking among women buyers with a 4.90 score for purchasing a vehicle. The average WSI score for all brands is 4.33. Following Chrysler were Mercedes, Kia, Buick and Lexus. Many other brands were listed at a 3.8 or above, and three brands have a WSI score below the 3.8 womenfriendly recognized level. Chrysler ranked consistently high with women customers that were very satisfied with the engagement and treatment by the sales person, their overall dealership experience, as well as the financing process.
the dealership but did not purchase that day. The average WSI score for all brands is 3.58. Following Mercedes were Chevrolet, Mazda and Chrysler and tied for fifth were Ford and Lexus. Mercedes ranked consistently high with women customers that rated their browsing experience and were very satisfied with the engagement and treatment by the sales person and their overall dealership experience
Servicing
Honda dealers scored the highest from women having their car serviced with a WSI score of 4.84. The average WSI score for all brands is 3.95. Honda was followed closely by Acura, Mercedes, Lexus and ChrysBrowsing ler. Honda ranked consistently high Mercedes dealers scored the high- with women customers that had an est, with a WSI of 4.52 score, among easy time scheduling a service visit, women customers who went into received an estimate prior to work
being completed, had alternative options provided, felt they were treated respectfully and advised of the process, and paid an amount consistent with what was quoted. The WSI data comes from audited consumer reviews. Women now account for 54 percent of all car purchaches; however, they influence and initiate almost 80 percent. “Car companies and dealerships that treat and respect women well are placing themselves in a strong position to convert more browsers to buyers and get more referrals,” said Anne Fleming, car buying advocate and president of the company,
october 2009
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New iPod Nano impresses, Microsoft’s Zune improves By RACHEL METZ AP Technology Writer
SAN FRANCISCO — Back in 2004, when I got my first MP3 player, I never cared that it lacked a camera, Web browser and crystalclear video playback — features that are now comon digital media Review mon devices. Apple’s latest iPod Nano and Microsoft’s freshest Zune, both released in September, offer these kinds of perks and plenty more. Neither is right for everyone, but both serve as a reminder of how far digital media players have come in just a few years. Apple has sold more than 100 million iPod Nanos since launching the first one in 2005, and the latest version should cement its title as king of the prom. At first glance, the new Nano seems very much like the previous version. It has retained its skinny legginess and curved sides, along with its crisp screen and slightly annoying shake-to-shuffle music feature. Astute gadget hounds may notice it has a slightly enlarged screen — it’s now 2.2 inches on the diagonal, up from 2 inches. There are some major additions, though, that make this tiny tune toter really worth its price tag ($149 for 8 gigabytes of storage space; $179 for 16 gigabytes). The first is located near the bottom of the Nano’s back: A little video camera lens with a pinholesized microphone. The location is prone to fingers-over-lens issues, but because the Nano has a built-in accelerometer you can
solve this problem by turning the device upside down and it will still know to film right side up. Apple says it simply wasn’t possible to place the camera anywhere else without making the Nano pudgier, so I’m willing to forgive this inconvenience. The quality of Nano videos probably won’t get you into Cannes, but the camera is so easy to use that I found myself looking for cool things to record while wandering around listening to music. I also loved its special effects filters, which let you film in old-fashioned film mode or “kaleidoscope” mode. To my chagrin, there is no option to take still photos, and no zoom — two features you’ll find on many run-of-the-mill cell phones. Maybe next time, Apple? The built-in microphone did impress me. It had some difficulties capturing sound from multiple sources at the same time, but noises generally sounded clear in videos. The microphone will also record voice notes — something I’ve been awaiting for several years. Simply put, the new Nano gets nearly everything right. It even includes a built-in pedometer for logging exercise goals. There are plenty of tweaks Apple could — and probably will — make in the future, but it’s still the best and smallest multimedia player you can buy for under $200. Microsoft’s Zune player has gotten steadily better since it was first released in 2006. Its latest effort, the Zune HD, gets several things right, including video and music playback. Still, there’s still plenty
gigabytes) is packed in a slim, silver-and-black case that sports a fairly generous 3.3-inch touch screen. The screen is one of the new Zune’s best parts: It’s very responsive to finger swipes and taps, and, as with Apple’s iPod Touch, you can pinch photos to zoom in and out. Videos and photos look super crisp, and I had no problem snuggling up with the Zune HD while watching an episode of sketch comedy show “The State” that I downloaded from the Zune Marketplace over the corresponding AP PHOTO computer software. I was pleased to see Microsoft The Apple iPod Nano, top, and the finally built a Web browser into Microsoft Zune HD. the Zune, which you can use when you’re in a Wi-Fi hot spot. The of room for improvement. The Zune HD ($220 for a 16- Zune always had wireless capagigabyte version; $290 for 32 bilities, and the company seems
to revel in rolling out related functions as slowly as possible. On the last Zune, users gained the ability to download Zune Marketplace songs straight to the device when connected to a Wi-Fi network. The browser, which is based on Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, isn’t nearly as good as one you’d use on your computer. Given the screen size it was sometimes easier to view mobile versions of Web sites (sometimes you’re automatically directed to them anyway), and there’s no support for Flash videos like the ones on YouTube. Still, it has an easy-to-use touch-screen keyboard. The Zune HD proves the device is starting to come into its own as a multimedia contender. It’s not quite there yet, but I am curious to see what Microsoft comes up with next.
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October 2009
Small businesses dealing with H1N1 flu issues again NEW YORK (AP) — Small-business owners who weathered the first wave of H1N1, also known as swine flu, last spring are dealing with the illness all over again, including issues like employee absences and staffers who are afraid of getting sick. “Outside of the Obama health care plan, it’s the topic of the day” in conversations that Rob Wilson has with his small-business clients. Wilson, president of Employco, a Chicago-based resources outsourcing company, said that with schools and colleges back in session and the disease spreading, “we’re seeing it start to hit businesses now.” Even if owners don’t already have staffers staying home because they or their children are sick, they need to figure out how the work will get done despite the flu. Owners should also think about prevention, whether that means making it easy for workers to get flu shots or keeping the workplace more sanitary. And they also need to be sure they keep employees’ health matters private even if coworkers want to know who’s got the flu. The federal government, which this week warned small companies to be prepared to work with fewer staffers this fall, has published “Planning for 2009 H1N1 Influenza: A Preparedness Guide for Small Business.” The guide is available online at www.flu.gov/ professional/business/smallbiz. html. There also is information for businesses from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc. gov/h1n1flu/business/toolkit/. The government and HR consultants say owners can take steps to help limit the spread of flu in the workplace. Keeping a supply of strategically placed hand sanitizers and tissues can help. Frequent cleaning of surfaces that many people come into contact with is also a good idea. Owners might want to take some cues from managers in the health care business. Jamie Anderson, vice president of health
care for Constant Care Management, a Dallas-based operator of Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities, said surfaces like handrails are being disinfected several times a day instead of once a day before the flu outbreak last spring. Companies should also give staffers time off to get flu shots, and pay for shots even if they don’t provide health insurance. But employers should be aware that they generally cannot require an employee to get a shot. It is critical for companies to plan now for multiple employee absences. HR consultants recommend that owners be sure that staffers are able to substitute for one another when someone is out sick. “If you don’t have employees cross-trained, you need to do so as quickly as possible”Wilson said. The spread of swine flu should also make owners think about allowing employees to telecommute. That’s particularly important when an employee needs to stay home to care for a sick child. But an owner should not be asking someone who’s sick to log in to work from home.
Small businesses such as manufacturers and retailers can be hard hit because employees can’t do the work from home. Owners may want to consider hiring temporary staffers to pitch in, and maybe hiring them for training days in advance so they’ll be ready to work when called in. As a preventative measure, owners might want to consider staggering shifts if possible to limit the amount of contact employees have with each other, said Debra S. Squyres, a director at Trinet Group Inc., which also provides human resources outsourcing. Along that line, when there have been outbreaks of flu near Constant Care facilities, non-essential visitors have not been allowed in, Anderson said. Once they’re sick, it’s important for staffers to feel it’s OK to stay home. A boss needs to be sure he or she doesn’t do anything to pressure someone with the swine flu — or any illness for that matter — to come to work. To do so can be a violation of federal and state laws, and it’s also a bad health practice. Even if the weak economy makes employees
feel compelled to come in because of job insecurity or because fellow staffers are already stretched to the limit, an owner should be emphasizing: Stay home if you’re sick. Another concern for many staffers is using up sick time. A worker
with a week of sick leave annually and who already took time for the seasonal flu this year might be tempted to come in rather than lose pay. Under these circumstances, the answer might be for owners to be a little more liberal with sick time.
october 2009
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cedar valley business monthly
Spending smarter is the key In this age of global competitiveness, every dollar you spend has got to be “cost effective” or you’re not sharpening your competitive edge; you’re dulling it. And as you undoubtedly know, becoming more costeffective is more than a matter of spending less. Anyone Kathy Flack can do that and is a registered cause a drop in interior designer at Flack Interior sales, quality or productivity Design Association, that dwarfs the a division of Simpson Furniture. “savings.” Contact her at The key is to fidakathy@aol.com. spend smarter. That’s where interior designers come in. Like it or not your business has elements of design. And it costs money. You can’t change that. All you can change is whether you have good design or poor design; whether you’ve spent your dollars wisely or unwisely. Don’t make the mistake of thinking good design is an unnecessary luxury! When we apply
design principles to the business setting, we’re not applying personal tastes. We’re applying proven principles of human psychology. We’re talking about efficiency. Productivity. Sales. Profits. We’re talking your language. Here’s just a partial list of reasons you should consider a professional assessment of your current design factors: n It’s well documented that different combinations of color, design and choice of materials in the workplace environment can dramatically enhance or detract from worker concentration and productivity, depending on the tasks they’re doing. n It’s well documented that workers in well- designed office settings feel better about themselves and the company they work for, which increases loyalty, creativity and an attitude of continuous improvement. n The saying “You only get one chance to make a first impression” is never so true as it is with customers. The psychological role of design in winning customer confidence and loyalty is awesome, whether you’re talking
about a sales floor or professional office. Design takes teamwork. It should involve you, the client and a collaboration of “partners” such as interior designers, architects, engineers, lighting, landscaping and building contractors. Your “partners” could be one or all of the above depending on the scope of your project. The more openly we work as a team the more you can appreciate the knowledge and value that each of us brings to the table. If you need a competitive edge, or suspect your office or showroom environment is not doing all it can for productivity, morale or sales, give us a call. Let an interior design professional help you create the most efficient, productive and practical work or sales setting you possible can.
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Tanning salon industry must innovate to thrive The Associated Press
Growing concerns about skin cancer and curtailed discretionary spending are burning the $2.7 billion tanning salon industry, which one research firm expects will decline by 5.1 percent this year. But a shift from tanning beds to tanning sprays may be a bright spot for the industry. The rising popularity of sprayon tanners, which now account for 11 percent of industry revenue, is expected to surge to 17 percent this year, according to market research firm IBISWorld Inc. “By far, ray-lamp skin tanning is the No. 1 revenue source for tanning salons at 72 percent, but growing awareness of the high cancer risk associated with
their use continues to diminish market share,” said George Van Horn, senior analyst with IBISWorld. “Profit levels are higher with spray-on tanning booths, therefore the shift toward these substitutes may actually improve the industry.” Ultraviolet bed sessions cost from $5 to $7 on average, typically lasting 15 to 20 minutes, so the industry relies on a high turnover of clients. During tough economic times, diversifying a salon’s menu is a good way to help generate revenue, Van Horn said. “Tanning salons are operating in a mature market,” Van Horn said. “To stay in the game, salons need to adapt to market trends and offer innovative spray-on tanning products and services.”
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THE COURIER
cedar valley business monthly
www.wcfcourier.com
october 2009
Meet the drivers of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile more because people come up to us and ask questions. Q: Has anyone ever offered you money for a ride? Do you rent it for parties?
MCT PHOTO
Wienermobile drivers Alison and Mary Kate, known as the Hotdoggers, visit the home of June and Mike Ford of Woodhaven, Mich., the winners of the Top Our Best Dog Photo Contest last month. By Susan M. Selasky Detroit Free Press
Ever see the Wienermobile on the road and wish you could get a ride? Dozens of lucky folks recently got the chance when the 27-footlong hot dog on wheels rolled up to the Woodhaven, Mich., home of Oscar Mayer contest winner June Ford. We struck up a frank conversation with the drivers — Alison of Dallas and Mary Kate of Pittsburgh, both 22 (the company requires that they not use last names). Question: What’s your official title? Alison and Mary Kate: Hotdoggers (pointing to the title on their ketchup-colored polo shirts). Q: What does it take to be a hotdogger? Alison: It’s a very coveted position ... about 1,500 apply for one of 12 spots. Mary Kate: If you’re chosen, you spend two weeks at Hot Dog High learning to drive the Wienermobile. (Hot Dog High is at the Oscar
Mayer company headquarters in Madison, Wis.) Q: Where and when did you start your tour with the Wienermobile? Alison: We’ve been living out of suitcases since June 21. Mary Kate: We’re assigned to the West Coast area but they flew us in from Portland, Ore., to do this because the Wienermobile for your area had another assignment. (There are six on active duty.) Q: So this isn’t our Wienermobile? Mary Kate: No, we drove this one in from Madison. Alison: But this one is brand new! This is its first event. Q: Good to know. I thought we were being cheated. Do you relish the thought of driving this every day? Alison: It’s a great travel and personal growth experience. Mary Kate: We both have degrees in public relations and it’s a great steppingstone. Q: How long is this driving gig? Mary Kate: One year. Alison: After six months we change partners and regions. Q: It looks pretty roomy. Do you
two sleep in it? Alison: There are six seats. And, no, it’s not a “wienerbago”; we stay in hotels. Q: What do your parents think? Mary Kate: “We put you through college and you’re doing what?” Alison: Both our parents were sort of hesitant because they were not sure what the job entailed. But they realized it’s a very coveted position. ... They love telling their peers and friends what their daughters do. Q: What does the Wienermobile run on and how fast does it go? Alison: Premium. But sometimes we tell kids it runs on mustard. We never speed and don’t go over 65 m.p.h. Q: Do you ever get lost? Alison: No. We have a GPS. Q: Do you need an HDL (hot dog license), er, I mean a CDL (commercial driver’s license) to drive this? Alison: No. A regular driver’s license is all it takes. Q: What’s one of the biggest challenges? Mary Kate: Anytime we pull in to get gas or lunch it takes an hour or
Alison: A guy offered us $500 to bring the Wienermobile to his son’s day care. No it doesn’t get rented out for parties. It’s not a “cocktail wiener.”
october 2009
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cedar valley business monthly
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PAGE 47
Five pitfalls to avoid in during retirement years You work hard and save aggressively so that one day you can retire from the work force. When the fabled day arrives and you enter the blissful state of retirement, you may be tempted to think you’re done agonizing over your money and savings. The truth is the hard work is probably just beginning. Assuming you’re like most of us, with a finite number of Larry K. Fox dollars available to fund Larry K. Fox is senior your retire- financial adviser at Ameriprise Financial ment, you Inc. in Waterloo. need a plan to Contact him at (319) make sure you 234-7000 are spending and investing in the most optimal way to make your money last as long as possible. Here are five pitfalls to avoid in retirement to help you preserve your assets and maintain your lifestyle for years to come. Don’t retire too early. It’s difficult to predict how long you will live, but longevity trends suggest the likelihood of longer lifespans for current and future retirees. If you retire at age 62, you could live another 20 or 30 years. Not only do you need to think about how long your money will last, you should also consider the consequences for taking early withdrawals from your retirement nest egg. Also, consider that if you choose to take Social Security early, you agree to receive a reduced amount each month for the privilege of potentially more years of the benefit. Your Social Security statement can help you determine the financial tradeoffs of taking early benefits or postponing Social Security income for a few years. Don’t rely on just one form of income. You probably realize that Social Security is unlikely
to provide you with enough money to live on in retirement, and that you will need additional sources of income to live comfortably. Most retirees look to a number of sources to cobble together a retirement income. Even though you’re retired, you can still seek out growth investments, assuming you retain a good share of your savings in less risky ventures. Seek balance by diversifying or spreading your savings across a variety of investments with varying levels of risk. A financial advisor can help you select from available stocks and bonds to keep your money working for you and help generate investment income. Beware of insurance gaps. Your insurance needs may change in retirement, but they won’t go away. You may need to replace employer-sponsored benefits such as life, health and dental insurance after you retire. Shop around for attractive price points and good-quality plans. Even if your home is paid for, you should maintain an appropriate level of homeowners’ insurance in case of theft, fire or other incidences. Consider whether long-term care insurance for you and your spouse is something you want to help pay for things like long-term care in a nursing home. Avoid tax mistakes with retirement distributions. Your sources of income in retirement may include Social Security, a company-sponsored pension plan, IRA, 401(k) or a profit-sharing plan. How you access your savings in these various investment vehicles can have a profound effect on how long your money lasts. The IRS regulates how much you can take out of your retirement accounts each year, and you can incur stiff tax penalties if you do not abide by the rules. Talk to your tax preparer and financial advisor about required minimum dis-
tributions from your retire- Diversification is not a guarment accounts and establish antee of overall portfolio profit a schedule of withdrawals or protection against loss. Financial planning serthat satisfies requirements while preserving principal. At retirement, you are generally required to begin taking minimum distributions from qualified retirement plans by April 1 of the year after you turn 70½. Don’t underestimate the impact of inflation. When you estimate how much you need in retirement, don’t forget to consider how inflation reduces the value of your savings over time. Your budget should factor in rising health care costs and other expenses that may grow disproportionately. In general, early retirees spend more on travel and hobbies while they are still active and healthy; these costs may go down as you get older. Get professional advice. A knowledgeable financial advisor can help you analyze your retirement portfolio and recommend steps to help you make choices with your retirement assets. Talk to your advisor and tax professional to plan your distributions to help reduce your tax obligation. With careful planning, you can effectively manage your retirement assets — and relax and enjoy the golden years. This column is for informational purposes only. The information may not be suitable for every situation and should not be relied on without the advice of your tax, legal and/ or financial advisors. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its financial advisors provide tax or legal advice. Consult with qualified tax and legal advisors about your tax and legal situation. This column was prepared by Ameriprise Financial. Diversification helps spread risk throughout your portfolio, so that investments that do poorly may be balanced by others that do relatively better.
vices and investments offered through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC.