Role of Investment Banking

Posted on March 10, 2021March 10, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

All over the world, two types of tasks are being performed by banks. Although the functionalities and operations of investment banks and commercial banks are different, their contribution to the country’s economic growth cannot be ignored. Contemporary, financial, and economic development has led to an increase in competitiveness amongst the business sector. The investment banking sector faces numerous challenges while providing their financial services. On a micro and macro level, the competition among investment banks has been heightened, and the investment banking sector will face significant challenges.

Investment banking comprises money and securities trading, where they assist their potential investors in investing their money properly, at the right time, and in the right manner. These banks play a pivotal role in supporting companies, corporate organizations, and individuals in the US to raise capital for making investments in products or services they wish to bring to the market.

Investment banks are known for helping their investors to manage their finances. Investment banking staff supports investors to invest their money in a selected market distinct from commercial banks indirectly. They also guarantee an optimal return on their securities. However, the main activity of an investment bank is to provide viable advice to their customers. At the same time, the customers are also known as investors for investing their money properly through trading on bonds.

Another activity being performed by investment banking includes the sale of companies’ bonds and shares with the specific purpose of raising funds and capital for corporations, companies, governments, and individual persons. This duty is being performed by investment banking to support the corporations to raise enough capital that enables them to execute their projects and help businesses to acquire new properties. On the other hand, they also support corporate entities to buy shares that are believed to have good value for the business. In this regard, banks usually have a standby buyer to whom they would make a higher bargain. Investment banks usually act as a stockbroker when it comes to the selling and buying of shares. It is recognized that these securities, when traded between entities, could help the companies to raise more capital for their businesses.

Investment banking is referred to as a set of “all functions of a bank” that helps to enhance trading at financial markets. It is commonly mentioned in the academic literature that all such services are being comprised by investment banking.

The banking sector is becoming more accessible, expedient, and broader in terms of the scope of services. However, investment banking plays a significant role in the development of the banking sector. In contemporary mixed economies, both large organizations and governments rely largely on investment banking to raise their funds. Therefore, it can be stated that the main purpose of investment banking is to raise capital funding for the companies and to enhance the overall economic activity level.

Investment banking plays an important role in the economy, as well as the society of a country. The banking sector of the US is fragmented and offers significant financial and economic services. The investment banking sector has become an important financial center.

It is reported that the US investment banks are helping boost the economy of commercial and private sectors of society. At the same time, they establish more opportunities for individuals who are employed or unemployed. In addition to this, the banks also enable the organizations to raise their capital and to increase their profits. In the US society, investment banking helps to enhance financial security from possible economic dropdowns. Therefore, it can be stated that every country that wants to enhance its economic level, and every economy that wants to increase its financial status, must require the services of an efficient investment banking sector.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

4 Business Risks Every Owner Must Take

Posted on March 10, 2021March 10, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

Risk is in almost everything we do in life that is worthwhile. We take risks in relationships, investments, work, and even in our environment. This facing of risk means that when we start a business, we will take risks that must be taken for the business to succeed. While these risks could also doom the business to failure, they are risks you have to take if you want to have the chance for your business to succeed. Here are four business risks that every owner must take when starting and running a business.

Financial Risk

While every business could be considered a financial risk for its shareholders, it is the highest risk at startup and initial investment. It has no financial track record to show returns. Financial risks can range from the products or services the company offers, risking a disconnect or failure with customers to unforeseen disasters that can devastate a business in the beginning stages of operations. The financial risks a small or startup business faces are many, but the rewards can be significant even beyond profits if the risks are managed.

Reputation Risk

When owning a small business, you automatically take on risk to your reputation. These risks extend once you start the business to its reputation separated from you as the owner. Understanding that you and your business reputation can affect the success or failure of the company is essential. The management of the risks on your reputation is made more difficult in our digital world, where feedback, both positive and negative, can be given within minutes of experience. Social media has made information and the sharing of it instant and, in some cases, viral. As a small business owner, this is another risk with high satisfaction reward if you take it on and understand that you can minimize this risk by awareness and being proactive.

Security risk

Anyone that is on the internet is taking a security risk. This risk is particularly daunting for small or startup business owners. A single cyber-attack could potentially destroy a company in a fell swoop. Understanding security risks for both the brick and mortar business and online business gives you an advantage when it comes to protecting against them. If you are unsure how to protect against cyber-attacks through software and protocols, it would be prudent to hire someone to safeguard your professional system. Some professionals deal with security at the brick and mortar business front as well. While security risks are common, they can also be minimized by taking proactive measures.

Investment Risk

Risks in investments made by the business are the same as individual risks made in investments. If the business makes investments in stocks or other businesses, it is the business that takes the hit if there is a failure or downturn. Before making investments in the business name, you as the business owner must understand the risks versus the rewards and make investment decisions based on the business’s tolerance to take a hit. Most of the business risks should be in the business itself rather than outside investments until it is profitable and productive.

Conclusion

A small business owner needs to be prepared to deal with all types of business risks and trials. While these risks may seem overwhelming or even too risky, if you are informed of the risks and understand them and how to manage them, they should not hinder you from having your dream of owning and operating your own business. Every business owner has to face risks in life and finances. Managing risks and using your understanding will guide you in making sound financial decisions that will help you succeed in business and life.

Real Estate: Three High Yield Rental Investment Ideas

Posted on March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

Only a few real estate investments can generate returns of 4% or more. Here are three possible investment solutions, but make note that they should be carried out as diversification.

Rental investment comes in different forms. Everything will depend on the down payment, the type of property chosen (new or old), and the tax system. Here are three examples of investments that can generate higher rental income than traditional renting.

Parking lots

A parking lot is a real estate investment that would offer and ticket the most accessible entrance depending on the city and the neighborhood.

For these small transaction amounts, notary fees are high. Also, to amortize them, the possession of this property must be long-timer. Also, “to make a winning investment, it is better to buy several lots in the same place. Having a single address facilitates rental management, simpler than that of a home. In a parking lot, there is no maintenance or repair work to be done, ” says Benjamin Spivac, heritage engineer at the Amplegest management company. Another tip: to boost profitability, it is better to target a box. “The rent can be 10 to 20% higher than that of a simple underground location,” says Mathieu Mars, director of the Heritage Institute.

However, the profitability can remain an unknown in the long-term: what about the car’s place in the city? If the disappearance of parking places on public roads is a reality, private vehicles’ presence could be threatened in the not-too-distant future. Some city dwellers already prefer not to own a vehicle (and therefore do not need a garage). If necessary, they do not hesitate to rent or share a vehicle. If this phenomenon persists and increases, the garage may be less popular. Its value could then fall, like its rent. On the other hand, higher street parking rates, such as fines, could drive up prices.

Furnished rental

The furnished rental allows rental income from 10 to 20% more than the same property unfurnished. This is not unfavorable for those who want to pursue a profit quickly.

Still, to offer a furnished apartment likely to appeal to tenants (often single people or couples), we must consider all aspects of a furnished property. First, small and medium-sized areas are the most popular, especially in central and/or residential areas. Then, the equipment of the house must be complete and irreproachable.

Admittedly the law of July 31, 2015, has established a list of minimum furniture items that must be provided. Still, it is better to go above and beyond and offer occupants the maximum comfort and services possible. These assets will help your property stand out from the growing competition in this rental niche.

To boost profitability, some owners of supermarkets downtown or close to facilities can advertise their location and proximity to different rental properties. The sum of rents paid by roommates will always be 10 to 15% higher than the rent paid for the same area by a single tenant. This type of tenancy in the former allows a taxpayer to adopt the tax status of a “non-professional furnished renter” (LMNP) to generate non-taxed income for several years and compensate for depreciation.

The residence services

Investing in an apartment located in a residence helps to generate regular income. All residence owners sign a minimum lease of nine years with a professional responsible for rental management.

Salespeople who praise these operations’ charms insist that rents are paid on a fixed date, even if the rental housing complex is not fully occupied. Depending on the type of residence, the numbers are tempting: 3.8% for a senior residence apartment and nearly 4% for a room in a student residence. Again, budgets differ according to the property purchased.

Proven Time Management Strategies

Posted on March 9, 2021October 23, 2025 by Jennifer Brazer

Effective Time Management Strategies to Boost Business Productivity

Time management strategies like time blocking, prioritization frameworks, and focused daily planning transform overwhelmed entrepreneurs into productive leaders by maximizing every hour for measurable business results. These proven approaches help you overcome distractions, eliminate time-wasting habits, and consistently achieve more with less stress while building sustainable growth momentum.

I’ve spent two decades as CEO of Complete Controller working alongside business owners across every industry imaginable—from tech startups to established manufacturing firms—and one truth remains constant: the difference between thriving businesses and struggling ones often comes down to how leaders manage their most precious resource—time. After implementing systematic time tracking in my own company, we discovered that inefficient workflows were costing us 30% of our productive hours weekly, leading to a complete overhaul that doubled our quarterly output while reducing team burnout by half.

What are effective time management strategies to boost business productivity?

The most effective strategies include time blocking, task prioritization using frameworks like Eisenhower Matrix, delegation, SMART goal-setting, and leveraging digital productivity tools
Time blocking involves scheduling dedicated focus periods for specific tasks, eliminating interruptions and context switching
Prioritization frameworks help identify high-impact activities versus time-wasters, focusing energy on revenue-generating work
Delegation and automation free leaders from repetitive tasks, creating space for strategic thinking and growth initiatives
Digital tools provide real-time visibility into time usage patterns, revealing hidden productivity leaks and optimization opportunities

Proven Time Management Strategies for Busy Business Owners

Building a profitable business requires mastering the art of strategic time allocation. The following methods have been tested across thousands of companies and consistently deliver measurable improvements in both output and profitability.

Time blocking and timeboxing methods

Calendar blocking represents the foundation of productive workdays, transforming chaotic schedules into structured success systems. By dedicating specific time slots to particular tasks or project types, you create protected zones for deep work that generate real business value.

The timeboxing approach takes this concept further by assigning fixed durations to specific activities, preventing perfectionism from derailing progress. For instance, allocating 90 minutes to strategic planning forces completion rather than endless refinement, while 30-minute blocks for email processing prevent inbox overwhelm from consuming entire mornings.

Block similar tasks together (batch processing emails, calls, administrative work)
Schedule your highest-energy hours for complex strategic work
Build buffer zones between meetings to process information and reset focus
Review weekly blocks to identify patterns and refine your system

Harvard Business Review research confirms that executives using time blocking report 30% productivity increases, while University of Southern California studies show even more dramatic 50% improvements in task completion rates.

Prioritizing tasks that move your business forward

The Eisenhower Matrix provides a battle-tested framework for distinguishing urgent fires from important growth initiatives. Research from Acuity Training reveals that 50% of professionals using this method feel in complete control of their workload daily, compared to just 28% of those who reactively handle tasks as they arise.

“Eat the Frog” methodology amplifies this effect by tackling your most challenging or impactful task first thing each morning. This approach builds psychological momentum that carries through the entire day, turning procrastination patterns into achievement habits.

The Pickle Jar Theory offers a visual planning method that categorizes work into three distinct levels:

Rocks: High-value strategic initiatives that directly impact revenue or growth
Pebbles: Supporting tasks that can be scheduled around your rocks or delegated
Sand: Low-priority activities and distractions that fill remaining gaps

By filling your schedule with rocks first, then pebbles, and finally sand, you guarantee that critical work receives prime attention while less important tasks naturally find appropriate time slots or get eliminated entirely.

Time management tools & techniques to streamline success

Modern productivity tools transform good intentions into systematic execution. Project management platforms like Asana, Monday.com, and ClickUp centralize task tracking while providing team-wide visibility into priorities and progress.

Kanban boards revolutionize workflow visualization by creating clear columns for task stages—backlog, to-do, in-progress, and complete. This visual system instantly reveals bottlenecks and ensures nothing falls through organizational cracks.

Time tracking software delivers perhaps the most powerful insights of all. Studies show that implementing employee time tracking reduces productivity leaks by up to 80% while boosting revenue by 61%. These tools reveal exactly where hours disappear, from excessive meeting time to social media distractions, enabling targeted improvements.

Use automation tools like Zapier to eliminate repetitive tasks
Implement shared calendars for seamless team coordination
Deploy focus apps like Freedom or Cold Turkey to block distracting websites
Leverage AI assistants for scheduling and routine communications

Overcoming procrastination and building habits

Procrastination costs businesses dearly, with research showing that 80% of salaried workers lose between one and four hours daily to avoidance behaviors. Each procrastinating employee potentially drains $15,000 annually from company profits through delayed projects and missed opportunities.

The Getting Things Done (GTD) method provides a systematic approach to conquering procrastination through five key steps: capture all tasks in a trusted system, clarify actionable next steps, organize by context and priority, reflect through regular reviews, and engage with confidence knowing nothing is forgotten.

Daily debriefs accelerate habit formation by creating reflection rituals that reinforce positive behaviors. Spending just ten minutes reviewing what worked, what didn’t, and tomorrow’s priorities compounds into dramatic behavioral shifts over time.

Breaking entrenched bad habits requires honest measurement. Digital time tracking reveals uncomfortable truths about social media consumption, email addiction, and meeting bloat—awareness that enables conscious choice rather than unconscious drift.

Setting SMART goals for measurable productivity

The Rapid Planning Method (RPM) elevates traditional goal-setting by connecting daily actions to meaningful life outcomes. Rather than creating endless task lists, RPM focuses on results, purposes, and massive action plans that align with your core business vision.

SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—transform vague aspirations into concrete achievements. “Increase sales” becomes “Generate $50,000 in new recurring revenue by March 31st through targeted email campaigns to existing customers.”

Review goals weekly to maintain momentum and adjust tactics
Track leading indicators (activities) alongside lagging indicators (results)
Celebrate milestone achievements to reinforce progress
Connect individual goals to team and company objectives

Regular progress reviews create accountability loops that prevent goals from becoming forgotten wishes. Monthly assessments reveal whether current strategies deliver expected results or require course corrections.

Balancing work and life for sustainable business growth

Research from the American Psychological Association demonstrates that multitasking causes a staggering 40% loss in productivity while potentially lowering IQ by up to 15 points during task-switching episodes. Even more concerning, regaining full focus after an interruption requires an average of 25 minutes—making constant context switching a profit killer.

Building unscheduled time into your calendar provides essential breathing room for unexpected challenges without derailing planned work. This buffer time prevents the domino effect of one delayed meeting cascading into evening work sessions that erode personal boundaries.

Remote and hybrid work arrangements demand even clearer boundaries between professional and personal time. Successful leaders establish firm start and stop times, dedicated workspace boundaries, and technology rules that protect family time from work intrusion.

Create transition rituals between work and personal time
Establish “office hours” for team accessibility
Use separate devices or profiles for work and personal activities
Communicate boundaries clearly to both team members and family

How I Implemented These Strategies: Lessons from the Trenches

My journey toward time management mastery began with a harsh reality check. Time tracking software revealed that my leadership team spent 30% of our collective hours on repetitive administrative tasks that added minimal strategic value. This discovery sparked a complete operational overhaul.

We transitioned to Kanban boards for project management, immediately improving task visibility and accountability. Delegating routine work to specialized team members freed up eight hours weekly for client-focused growth initiatives. The real breakthrough came from linking key performance indicators to SMART goals, creating alignment that doubled our quarterly productivity metrics.

One particularly powerful change involved restructuring our meeting culture. We eliminated standing meetings without clear agendas, implemented 25-minute default durations instead of hour-long blocks, and required written updates for information sharing. These simple shifts reduced meeting time by 40% while actually improving communication quality.

Case study: Boosting focus and output at lifehack method

Demir and Carey Bentley transformed personal burnout into a productivity revolution now used by over 50,000 professionals at companies including Google, Uber, and PepsiCo. Their research uncovered shocking statistics: 82% of people lack any systematic time management approach, while the average worker wastes 51% of their day on low-value activities.

By implementing daily time tracking and strict priority rules, their clients achieved up to 80% reductions in interruptions and productivity leaks. The Bentleys’ methodology proves that systematic approaches to time management deliver exponential returns compared to willpower-based efforts.

The Human Side of Time Management: Why Your Team’s Buy-In Matters

Effective time management extends far beyond individual productivity metrics. Employees with structured time management systems report 91% lower stress levels and 73% improvement in work-life balance satisfaction. Yet research reveals a troubling gap—while 69% of workers consider work-life balance “very important,” only 44% actually achieve it.

This disconnect costs businesses through turnover, with 48% of employees willing to leave jobs that prevent life enjoyment and 57% experiencing moderate to severe burnout. Time management training addresses these challenges directly by enhancing personal control, reducing overwhelm, and restoring autonomy over daily schedules.

Team adoption requires more than mandating new tools. Successful implementations involve collaborative planning sessions, regular feedback loops, and celebrating early wins. Share success stories from team members who reclaim family time or complete passion projects thanks to improved productivity. Make time management benefits tangible and personal rather than abstract efficiency metrics.

Corporate training programs demonstrate remarkable returns, delivering 17% average productivity increases while 87% of participants acquire immediately applicable skills. The key lies in customization—adapting frameworks to match team culture and work styles rather than forcing rigid compliance.

Final Thoughts: Your Time Management Transformation Starts Today

Mastering time management strategies represents the difference between constantly fighting fires and building lasting business value. These proven systems—from time blocking to SMART goals—provide the structure needed to reclaim control over your schedule while achieving more meaningful results.

Success requires choosing one strategy that resonates with your current challenges and committing to consistent implementation for at least 30 days. Track your results, refine your approach, and gradually layer additional techniques as each becomes habitual. Small improvements compound into transformational outcomes when applied consistently over time.

Your business deserves leadership focused on strategic growth rather than administrative overwhelm. Take the first step today by identifying your biggest time drain and selecting the appropriate strategy to address it. For comprehensive support in optimizing your business operations and financial workflows, contact the experts at Complete Controller to discover how systematic approaches to time and resource management can accelerate your company’s growth trajectory.

Frequently Asked Questions About Time Management Strategies

What time management strategy should I implement first as a business owner?

Start with time tracking for one week to identify where your hours actually go, then implement time blocking for your three most important daily activities. This combination reveals problems while immediately providing a solution framework.

How can I get my team to adopt new time management practices?

Lead by example, share your own results, and involve the team in selecting which strategies to test first. Make adoption voluntary initially, celebrate early wins publicly, and provide training resources to support successful implementation.

Which digital tools provide the best ROI for time management?

Project management platforms (Asana, Monday.com), time tracking software (Toggl, RescueTime), and calendar blocking tools (Reclaim.ai, Calendly) consistently deliver the highest returns through improved visibility and reduced administrative overhead.

How long before I see results from new time management strategies?

Initial improvements often appear within 7-10 days, with significant gains typically manifesting after 30 days of consistent application. Full transformation into unconscious habits generally requires 60-90 days of deliberate practice.

Can time management strategies work for creative or unpredictable businesses?

Absolutely—creative work benefits from protected focus time even more than routine tasks. Use flexible time blocking, maintain buffer zones for inspiration, and adapt frameworks to support rather than constrain your creative process.

Sources

ACUITY TRAINING. “Time Management Statistics: Who? How? [Original Research].” Retrieved October 22, 2025. acuitytraining.co.uk/news-tips/time-management-statistics-research/
ASANA. “18 Time Management Tips to Boost Productivity [2025].” Retrieved October 22, 2025. asana.com
BUSINESS.COM. “Time-Management Tips for Entrepreneurs & Business Owners.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. business.com
CLOCKIFY. “Time Management Statistics Everyone Should Know in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. clockify.me/time-management-statistics
DESKTRACK. “Top 15 Time Management Goals for Employees in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. desktrack.timentask.com
EPTURA. “Rethinking productivity: 2025 Workplace Statistics.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. eptura.com
IAEE. “What You Must Know About the Dangers of Multitasking.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. iaee.com/2023/01/10/what-you-must-know-about-the-dangers-of-multitasking/
LIFEHACK METHOD. “20+ Must-Know Time Management Statistics & Facts in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. lifehackmethod.com/blog/time-management-statistics/
LPS ONLINE, University of Pennsylvania. “Mastering your schedule: effective time management strategies for success.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu
MYHOURS. “50+ Surprising Time Management Statistics to Take Notice of in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. myhours.com/articles/time-management-statistics-2025
SLACK BLOG. “8 time management tips for productivity.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. slack.com
TEAMOUT. “27 Employee Productivity Statistics You Must Know in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. teamout.com
UGA EXTENSION. “Time Management: 10 Strategies for Better Time Management.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. fieldreport.caes.uga.edu
YOMLY. “Employee Productivity Statistics You Need to Know in 2025.” Retrieved October 22, 2025. yomly.com

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Jennifer Brazer Founder/CEO

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

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Real Estate Investment: Triple Bottom Line in Sustainable Development

Posted on March 9, 2021March 8, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

To achieve complete sustainability development in the real estate industry, there is a need to distribute the natural capital that provides equitable solutions. Natural resources that are used in real estate can be categorized as either renewable or non-renewable. Renewable resources include woods, and non-renewable resources can include soil quality. As renewable resources can be generated easily, the focus should be given towards non-renewable resources for their sustainability. Ecosystem-related services like forestation and smart and efficient resource allocation will contribute positively to sustainability development.

Three elements are to be focused on for the sustainability concept to be promoted. The basic elements of economic elements, environmental elements, and social elements form the “Triple Bottom Line (TBL)” concept. Concerning the development in urban areas, the concept of sustainable development is highlighted by focusing on these three TBL elements. There are standard frameworks suggested by many authors, which are relevant to sustainable development. All frameworks reflect strategies that can be monitored and followed as a part of sustainable development. Every strategy is viewed from different perspectives, including the economy’s overall growth, social justice, economic prospect, income impartiality, and protection of the environment.

Though there are some strategies, there is still a need for an experimental study regarding the context of these strategies to be implemented in developed countries’ industries. The requirement of achieving the sustainable development goals must be identified by the real estate business based on the content of current policies and the necessary conditions to make use of resources more efficiently. Developed countries have made sustainability a part of their development policies and are promoting strategies that encourage growth and development of the economy while simultaneously assuring the communities’ current and future needs are met.

The Triple Bottom Line elements are linked strongly as they meet all the challenges regarding sustainable development. There is a need to understand in detail the inter-linked relation of all three elements. Theorists proposed a partial integration since challenges exist regarding boundary lines of shear zones of the three TBL elements. At the cut-off points of the three elements, there is a problem relevant to achieving social and environmental justice. The reason behind the environmental burden is an uneven distribution of the population.

Real estate investments utilize additional energy more than any other industry of the economy. Thus, the real estate business is a contributor to CO₂ emission. Measuring radiations is complicated, but according to reports, estimation shows that real estate businesses contribute to the emission of CO₂. Real estate uses up around 40% of global energy per year. Globally, 20% of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted are from buildings and factories. The expected rise in CO₂ emission by 2030 is 56%. By 2030, the expected rise in the global GHG emission is 7%. The raw materials used by buildings and construction are around 40%, making 3 billion tons per year. Construction also significantly impacts environmental factors; for instance, there is an expected utilization of 12% fresh water and 30% generation of total waste by 2030.

Eco-Efficiency is the term used by the business industry to define a typical approach of businesses towards sustainable development. All other approaches include the efficient use of energy, water, and resources to sustain and save. Socio-Efficiency can either positively or negatively impact an area because of accidents in the work-related environment or by the violation of workers’ rights. Reduction in Ecological degradation is necessary when the focus is on efficiently using resources for sustainable development. It is all termed as eco-efficient or eco-efficiency. For example, in transportation, there should be the use of fuel-efficient cars. The more a fuel-efficient car is used, the more demand for more cars on the road saves environmental pollution and fuel resources. Thus, Eco-Effectiveness is vital because it is focused on the absolute levels such as a reduction in total carbon dioxide emission. Sufficiency is a term that is defined as a situation when individuals make a choice not to promote unnecessary degradation in the environment. For instance, one can buy a luxury car, but the individual prefers to buy a car with low fuel consumption to promote sustainable development.

Ten Great Finance Tips for Singles

Posted on March 8, 2021March 7, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

Being single is soulful. You have no commitments, and you can do whatever you want without being accountable to anyone. In this time of freedom, the best thing you can do is to learn from personal finances to plan the future you want.

For this, we give you some incredible tips that you can start using today. But first, let us see what we are facing. Just as there are advantages to being single, there are also some disadvantages.

Singles manage their money as they want. They decide on what and how much they want to spend; if they are not careful, they can acquire debts. They have the opportunity to devote more time to their training and professional development. They value their work and feel a great passion for him.

Ten Financial Tips for Singles

Singles are at the best time to create financial stability; this will require a bit of effort, which you will appreciate over time. Though going on trips every other month might feel like an ideal idea, there are ways you can achieve your dreams. Yet, to get your dreams to come to life, working hard is essential, and it will require efforts from your side.

Save for Your Retirement

It is the number one point since a good portion of people leave this for last, thinking that there is still time left. The reality is that time goes by quickly, and it is better to be prepared. Also, the more years you spend, the more money you have to put into your income. So, open a savings account and deposit a fixed amount monthly. Do not touch that money. You can have other accounts to meet different goals.

Start Your Credit History

The credit history is your financial profile in which your financial and business behaviors are reflected. Paradoxically, to get a loan to buy a car or a house, you must have good credit.

Therefore, you must first obtain a job or generate regular income. Secondly, you must pay on time for services such as telephone, internet, television and taxes (this will demonstrate your ability to pay) and third we recommend you have credit cards. Many lenders see a good credit history as financial stability.

Buy a House

While you can get a mortgage loan, it can be low and with a high-interest rate due to your credit history; the best option will always be to save and invest in a small house or apartment. That way, if you start renting in the future, you will have extra income.

Hire a Major Medical Expenses Insurance

With medical insurance, you will avoid falling into bankruptcy in the event of an accident or illness. It will also be easier for you to save for this if you still do not have children and you are young.

Create an Emergency Fund

A study by the magazine “Money” estimates that 78% of people will have an adverse event in 10 years. You can be prepared for the bad times by creating a fund for emergencies, which is simply savings that are ready to be used in case things go wrong. You should have 3 to 6 months of the basics you need to survive in that time, and so you do not have to ask for a loan or acquire debt.

Summing Up

Finance issues can drain all our dreams. Although we spend our lives saving for the wishes we want to fulfill, we hardly get to fulfill them. While these unfulfilled dreams drain us, it is always a great idea to turn them into a reality. And, if it so happens that you’re single today, now is the time to work on your finances to enjoy later in your life.

Narcissist Employee in the Workplace?

Posted on March 8, 2021March 7, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

The term “Narcissism” is a personality disorder, which the American Psychiatric Association defines as a sense of ‘a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration and lack of empathy.’ The disorder of narcissism is found to be prevalent in highly successful people at different organizational levels contributing to negative organizational culture. A narcissistic approach instills a sense of entitlement that is responsible for interpersonal exploitation and showing apathy towards others. Narcissist behavior is a result of an employee’s preoccupation with the idea of achieving autonomy in their profession.

The difficult employees are those that are the most temperamental, i.e., they are busy back-biting, criticizing, and bullying others. The idea behind the exhibition of such negative traits is the achievement of self-entitlement. Hence, these employees are termed as ‘difficult’ as they are involved in creating incivility at the workplace and are norm violators. The violation of ethical norms and policies in an organization is highly resistant to developing a culture of cooperation and mutual understanding. The difficult employees, as per definition, are not only limited to mid-management levels but are also seen in leadership positions. The difficult employees at leadership positions are more troublesome as they act as a very strong disruptive force in building a community-culture, thereby lowering the organizational performance. However, regardless of the position of the employee in the management cadre, every difficult employee offers resistance in the achievement of organizational objectives. This resistance offered by the narcissist employee creates a barrier in teamwork and elevating stress in the workplace environment.

The growing need to use wide-spread workgroups by contemporary organizations has increased the demand for effective team building. Therefore, increased emphasis is being placed on the ingraining of citizenship behavior and positive influences within the organization to successfully manage different workgroups. Recent research studies have been specifically targeted to define and control the emotional tone of a workplace to avoid conflict and aggravation of negative personality traits. It is suggested that community-centered organizational models implemented experience less toxic behavior and healthy organizational culture. It is suggested that the phenomenon of narcissism at the workplace exhibited by leadership and at different levels of hierarchy is a reason for a toxic environment and negative organizational performance.

It is revealed that an employee’s uncensored behavior at any organizational level and overly demanding bosses can contribute to workplace toxicity. Further, leadership narcissism may cause increased employee turnover as the employees are treated as financial liabilities, and bosses are prone to exhibit unethical behaviors. Narcissist employees tend to exhibit self-centered behavior and focus more on self-gratification at work. Therefore, in their pursuit of climbing the success ladder, such employees may cause bullying and exploitation. This exploitation may reach the level of abuse and violating the rights of other employees.

Hence, the idea of community building in contemporary organizations is a far cry in a negative organizational culture. The concept of community building in an organization refers to the transformation of one’s skills into a cohesive entity, manifesting a diversified set of skills. In order to build a community culture, it is important to assemble teams containing mutually supportive individuals and make policies that are fair and unrestricted to improvements.

It is observed that employees’ narcissistic behavior leads them to exercise performances that are directed to achieve their hidden motives of achieving self-success. Hence, the consequent unethical actions taken by a narcissist for achieving their selfish motives may cause a negative impact on the performance of the organization. The organization may face increase employee turnover due to an unfair and illegitimate workplace climate.

Top 4 Pros and Cons of House Purchase

Posted on March 8, 2021March 7, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

One of the most major financial commitments in someone’s life is purchasing a home. As with any major purchase, there are some hindrances. Some may be struggling with the decision of owning a home versus renting. In both cases, you must be alert and make a well-thought-out decision. Many people struggle to become homeowners and spend much of their lives renting. For these individuals, owning a home is a big leap. Multiple socioeconomic factors contribute to the market rates of homeownership. Every home purchase comes with personal interests that must be deliberated. Additionally, the cost may change from market to market.

Many individuals prefer to rent compared to buying a house, but each comes with its’ own advantages and disadvantages. We will discuss these pros and cons while also resolving any confusion regarding real estate investment. Consider our research and choose the option that works with your lifestyle.

Benefits of house purchase

Mortgage establish equity

There is a famous concept that implies that paying rent is a waste of time. It contributes nothing to your financial wellness. Many Americans pay monthly rent after signing the contract of property sharing with the homeowner. If you change your residency in the middle of your lease, you must repay your rent, often with interest. This creates the chance to fall into debt. On the other hand, a mortgage includes a down payment and principal amount. All expenses are equal to the rate of homeownership. This will not only establish your mortgage equity but also remove the tension of monthly rent.

Renovation under your responsibility

When renting a property, any renovations are the responsibility of the landlord. While appealing, this “pro” comes with its’ own limitations. In most cases, the renter cannot even pin a poster on the wall without the home owner’s permission. Conversely, renovations increase the expenses of the property owner. However, home improvements may increase the home’s value, a benefit that you cannot enjoy while renting.

Disadvantages of house purchase

Too many hindrances

Purchasing a home does come with some hindrances, such as being locked into a mortgage. Selling your home if you decide to move can be quite a hassle. Essentially, you have less freedom to change your residence when owning a home. Additionally, a mortgage payment may be a hindrance for some, particularly when undergoing financial difficulties. Also, loan default restriction can be another issue for homeowners. You typically must have a fixed loan amount to own a new home, known as a loan default.

Possible financial loss

The real estate industry is constantly fluctuating. Purchasing a home may be a risky investment. For example, if you purchased your home for 200,000 dollars, your selling price may differ greatly due to changes in the real estate market. This situation may worsen if you are already facing financial hardship. Conversely, the opposite happens when renting. House equity is not a matter of the renters but the homeowner. In the case of renting, there is no risk of purchasing a depreciating property.

Conclusion

Purchasing a home is a major responsibility that may result in a financial profit or reward of investment in the name of ROI. Before making this decision, be sure to consider your current financial status, monthly budget, lifestyle, and daily expenses.

You must also consider your capacity regarding mortgage, interests, renovation, and maintenance payments. You may want to lease a property before purchasing a brand new home. In any case, take care to weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that best suits your specific needs.

6 Strategies to Reduce Business Debt

Posted on March 7, 2021March 6, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

We all have had to face debt at one time or another if we have ever had to take out a loan or buy anything on credit. When it comes to business debt, there is no difference. When it comes to debt and business finances, some can keep this debt under control. In contrast, others can lose control of it and run themselves out of business. Whether trying to get rid of your business debt quickly or trying to get out from under heavy debt, you will need to use some financial strategies. Here are six business financial strategies that will make you debt-free.

Reduce Expenses

While reducing expenses may sound like a no-brainer, many business owners and staff allow expenses to get out of hand. Reducing business expenses is no different than what you might do to reduce expenses in your finances. As with any budget, you have to take a close look at where all your income goes. While there may be significant differences in what the company spends and what an individual might spend personally, how you handle your finances should be the same for reducing spending. If your budget is tight, consider cutting expenses that bring no value to the company’s operations.

Pay with Cash on Hand

Just as with personal debt, business debt can often trace back to loans, the use of credit cards, and other sources of business finance that include long or short-term payment plans and interest. If you find that your business is becoming buried in this type of debt, you should choose a period that you only use cash and profits on hand to cover expenses and payroll. Taking on more debt to pay debt can cause a cycle of debt that cannot be overcome.

Creditor Communication

While it is common for small business owners to have financing that produces debt and creditors, some owners may not know the advantages of cooperating with those who hold their debt. If your business is doing well and the debt you carry is under control and paid down steadily, nothing needs to be done to your creditors. However, suppose your business debt becomes overwhelming and seemingly impossible. In that case, many owners don’t know that by merely communicating with your creditors, you can get your debt reduced or, in some cases, even eliminated.

Rework Your Budget

While having a budget is and should be a vital part of your company’s business plan, it is not something that you can prepare and leave. It needs to be reworked regularly when the business grows or finds shortfalls in spending versus profits. Revising your budget doesn’t have to be an overwhelming chore. It can be as simple as adding or removing line items or ensuring that expenses you eliminated are depicted on the current budget plan. It may help to look at your budget as a living, breathing thing to stress the importance of reworking as changes occur.

Consolidate

Debt consolidation is commonly used in both personal and business finances. It is a simple yet effective way to get debt under control or removed quickly. While it is not recommended to take on yet another loan, if your business credit is in good standing, you may qualify to get one lower interest rate loan to pay off all your debts, thus leaving you with one monthly, more controllable payment. If you don’t qualify for such a loan, you may be able to reform a current loan to pay off other debts, or if you have a credit card with a lower interest rate and a limit that will cover your debt, you can create the single payment yourself. If attainable, debt consolidation is one of the most effective ways to get your business out of the red and into the black quickly.

Hire a Professional

Some professionals and companies were specifically created to help individuals and businesses deal with debt consolidation or removal. When choosing a professional, it is best to use an individual or firm with an excellent reputation. While hiring an expert will come with a fee, in some cases, the fee is a small price to pay to get your business out of debt.

Conclusion

Business debt is natural, so you don’t need to worry or feel like you have failed somehow. Use these six strategies to get yourself out of debt, and your business will quickly be on the road to success.

The 4 Best Types of Business Credit to Finance Your Business

Posted on March 7, 2021March 6, 2021 by Jennifer Brazer

No matter the size, businesses have to take out loans at one time or another or use other business credit types to operate their business. This is especially true for small businesses. Small businesses often have struggled financially, which causes them to use tools to provide capital until the business can pay down debts and profit. If you are a small business owner, it is essential to consider the types of business credit you can get and how they work to make sound financial decisions that will make funding stress-free. Here are four of the most common types of business credit and how they work.

Business Charge Cards

Business charge cards a great way to get a quick line of credit and are similar to credit cards with some differences. Though you can charge the same things on a charge card as a credit card, charge cards are expected to be paid in full each month. They also rarely have a spending limit nor interest since they do not have a revolving payment over time. A business would use a charge card to make a significant purchase that needs to be made quickly that would take the rest of the month to save for so you can pay the balance in full as expected. Charge cards are good to have on hand for emergencies and large purchases, but it is recommended that you use them as little as possible, as paying it in full can be difficult.

Installment Accounts

Installment accounts are generally loans at a fixed amount with installment payments. These accounts will have an interest, but it will be figured into the overall cost, and the loan payments will be a fixed amount the lender agrees to upon approving the loan. The entire amount is determined over a specific timeframe then a fixed amount is pulled from that total. These loans are generally obtained from a banking institution or friends and family members that don’t charge interest but work with you to pay the loan back in manageable payments.

Revolving Credit Accounts

Revolving credit in the simplest terms is credit that has limits, but as long as you make payments on time and keep your charges under the limits, you can charge as often as you want or need to charge. This type of credit can be useful, but it can be expensive and is not recommended to be a primary business credit source with interest. Business debt is generally already problematic for the small business owner, so taking on an extra debt can quickly overwhelm a business owner and cause debt that threatens the business.

Vendor Accounts

Vendor accounts can be a lifesaver for small business owners. Just as the name implies, these accounts are established with vendors that the business uses for materials, products, services, and other business needs that the business cannot fulfill. Generally, business account balances will have anywhere from thirty to ninety days to pay the balance. The other advantage of a vendor account is that it carries no interest. Also, because vendors and the businesses they serve usually have a positive relationship, if something happens and you can’t make the payment, vendors will generally work with you on a payment plan until you get on your feet without withholding what the vendor offers.

Conclusion

When you are the owner of a small business, it is better not to use personal money to fund the business unless you act as though it is an investment and are a stakeholder paid from profits. Business credit is a reliable way to take care of the business’s needs until it is self-sustained. You should carefully consider all the options and use what makes sense for you and your company. You can use more than one type of business credit; be sure you keep in good standing, or your business could suffer financially.