Archive for December, 2019

Emergencies Happen—Tips for Paying Unexpected Medical Bills

Posted December 9, 2019 By GuestSpot

Unfortunately, it’s all too common that one second you’re fine, and suddenly, you’re on the ground, writhing in pain, the victim of an unfortunate accident. Medical emergencies can be exceptionally painful, stressful times, but they can also be expensive. Unexpected medical problems are a huge source of financial trouble and associated stress. That being said, if you are the victim of a medical emergency, there are ways to cope. Here are three things you can do.

Talk to Your Insurance Company

A common reaction by insurance companies may be to deny coverage or to say that you have a massive deductible or copay, but calling to check never hurts. This may allow you to find alternative payment options or give you a chance to see what other funding or financing may be available. Insurance companies may have hardship programs or connections to a local health care provider which allows you to save money. It may not always be successful, but a simple phone call is always worth the time.

Apply for a Loan

Another option you have is to take out a personal loan, which can be used for emergencies and medical bills. Personal loans usually have installment terms between 12 and 96 months. While this is certainly not an ideal option, applying for a loan with reasonable terms is a preferable alternative to filing for bankruptcy or damaging your credit. Alternatively, you can apply for a loan against equity which you have built up, such as in your house, or with a friend who has more resources than you do. This may enable you to get more favorable repayment terms, or lower interest rates.

Prepare With a Health Savings Account

Health Savings Accounts are tax advantaged accounts which allow users to put away money and then withdraw them for a medical expense. Essentially, they are savings accounts exclusively for health-related purposes that are also tax-free, and using them can help you reduce your taxes. They are certainly not applicable to everyone and require either an employer who offers one or the proper funding to set one up, but they can be beneficial in the event of an emergency.

The financial hardship of a health emergency is very real and can be very traumatizing. However, no matter what your financial situation is, you are not powerless. Asking for help, identifying resources, and being proactive can go a long way towards minimizing the financial burdens that an unexpected emergency can cause.

Filed in 2018 Guest Series, Tips & Hints

How to Be Respected by Your Employees

Posted December 4, 2019 By GuestSpot

If you are the boss, being a strong leader is vital, but gaining the respect of your employees is even more important. Respect is a feeling of deep admiration for someone based on their personal qualities, character, and achievements. Respect is not the same thing as obedience, and it cannot be required of someone in an employment agreement. It must be built slowly. There are several ways to stand apart from mediocre managers and become a rockstar one instead.

Increase Communication

Communication in the workplace is important because it helps foster a good relationship between the employer and employee. If a boss is not proactive about getting to know those on the team, the subordinates will not have much admiration for their leader. When you are able to correctly explain what needs to be done, the efficacy of the workflow is increased. There are some ways to increase your communication skills. For example, SHRM suggests that you should make sure to listen to employee feedback and concerns carefully and frequently. Practice active listening. Active listening is an essential life skill. If mastered, it will take you far. The art of this type of listening involves paraphrasing what you’ve heard and repeating the same message in different, more concise terms. When conveying ideas and thoughts to your workers, make sure you are direct and clear about the objective.

Take Action

One of the best ways to build a program of respect is to not let “things” sit unresolved. The often hidden end of strengthening communication is knowing how to do something with what is communicated. Your team doesn’t always need a yes, but they do need some kind of clear and reasonable response from you that illustrates not only that you heard what they are saying, but that you value the interchange regardless of the outcome. Ignoring that request or side comment may seem harmless to you in the big picture, but to the person who raised it, I can assure you it isn’t.

Take Care of Your Employees

Another method of gaining respect from your employees is to treat them well. If you make your workers feel valued and appreciated, they will not only respect you but also do a good job with their workload. There are several ways to take care of your employees. For example, one thing you could do is furnish them with reasonable benefits. Give them perks for their valuable contributions. Provide incentives and rewards for doing a good job and taking pride in the work. Implement an effective employee-of-the-month program that will motivate workers and boost morale. You can also take care of your employees by making sure they have a safe place to perform their work. Employees are more productive when they are given a clean and secure working environment. According to Cagle Law, employers should provide employees with everything they need to remain safe during all their work tasks.

Be Humble

Humble employers are those who have a realistic opinion of their own strengths and limitations. Modest leaders are respected because they put the business and others ahead of themselves. These are leaders who respect their workers regardless of position or role. When workers are acknowledged as equals, they will be able to work together collectively with greater success. Make sure that what you have to say has integrity. Workers typically do not feel inspired by cocky, flashy pep talks. They want a leader who backs up everything that was promised with immediate action. After all, actions do speak louder than words. Reputable employers do not need to brag about anything.

Respect is given when respect is earned. Always work vigilantly to gain the respect of your employees, and you will have rewarding long-term relationships with them.

Here’s another article you might like: 3 Important Aspects of Developing a Strong Team

Filed in Engage! Post