Second Careers: Why It Might Be Time to Make a Change

I’ve worked in so many fields and had so many different careers throughout my life. I had my own business selling Mexican Black Velvet Oil Paintings around the country until I was 20 years old.  I worked for a roofing company and owned by own roofing business, too.  After that I started working in the car business at Wickstrom Chevrolet Cadillac located in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania.  During this same time, I also started a career in the commercial truck business selling commercial trucks for Chevrolet Motor Division.  After that I worked for General Motors in the Central Foundry Division in Michigan as an iron pourer, core setter, and shaker operator.  That was just the first eight years of my adult life. 

Since then I’ve worked for dozens of other companies and had several different businesses.  I can say that one thing I’ve seen time and time again in each trade I worked in and in each business I owned is the constant, human condition of needing more to do.  I noticed that my employees wouldn’t actually get grumpy or low in morale until they were really bored and didn’t have enough to do.  It was when they were running around in an apparent frenzy that they were the happiest.  When I myself have worked for other companies, I was happiest when I had too much to do, not when I had not enough to do or when things were slow.

In the last few years I’ve played a little bit of a research game with this, and I’ve made a point to have conversations with my employees when I noticed that their morale was low.  These were just regular, office chit chats, but I noticed a common, reoccurring trend that came up in almost every single conversation of which I’ve probably had hundreds of now. 

Every employee of mine who seemed at all bored, unhappy, or even just grumpy had one thing in common and that was that they weren't pursuing a hobby or second career that they really wanted to be doing.  It wasn’t that they felt overworked or unhappy with their job or some other personal issue.  It was that they all had a serious hobby or hope for a second career or side business that they weren’t putting enough time and attention into.

This discovery was just great!  It proved to me what I always thought to be true.  Man truly does have incentive above all else to survive and to survive well.  Man wants to pursue his own goals, hopes, and dreams more so than anything else.  And if he’s not doing those things, he is to a degree unhappy and bored. 

This is the last thing I want to see in any one of my businesses and amongst any of my employees, and I strongly encourage all of my employees to pursue second careers if they so desire.  I think that it is a great idea, and I’ve certainly owned my own businesses in the past while also working a full time job for a company.

How I Can Help Get You Rolling On It

I’ve put together some tips that I pass on to my employees when they admit to me that they feel they could be doing more and doing better. I’d like to share them with you as well, and I hope you can benefit from them.

1. Find the time!  The number one objection I hear when I ask my employees why they aren’t actively pursuing this high and mighty activity or passion that they are so interested in the answer is always that they, “Just don’t have the time.”  This is such a common concern for people.  Time, time, time.  But no one controls time but you.  Time is a relative consideration.  It passes yes, but the relative speed with which it goes is determinable by only you. 

My advice is to figure out ways that you can do multiple things at once.  For example, if you want to pursue a hobby of writing a novel and eventually getting a book sold, offer to your boss to take on an additional responsibility that involves writing professional materials for the company.  This will not only enhance your writing skills, but it will also get you more into the mindset of writing in general, and you are more likely to dedicate a couple hours a day to writing your novel because of it.

2. Make your time off your time on.  When you want to pursue a hobby or get a second career going, sitting on the couch and watching TV with a takeout dinner is not the way to do it.  Prioritize your off time and set aside at least fifty percent of it to working on your true passion.  You will find yourself to be a lot happier on a day to day basis if you spend your free time working on your passion than if you spend it just sitting around.

3. Don’t make any more excuses.  The only person on this planet who is responsible for your destiny is you.  No more of the whole, “I could work on my second career if my boss didn’t give me such intense deadlines.”  No more, “If my kids didn’t take up so much of my time, I could play the guitar more.”  If you’re not happy with the status quo of how you spend your time, then change it.  Remember, “It's all too much,” is a banned phrase in your life now, and “can’t” is a four-letter word.

These are just a few of the ways I was able to expand on my own interests and desires while also working a full time job.  Today, several of my employees at different businesses of mine have started their own businesses as well, and the increased happiness, zeal, and dedication they bring to the table at my company as a result is noticeably higher!

Per Wickstrom is the founder and CEO of Best Drug Rehabilitation, one of the top holistic rehabilitation centers in the country. He found sobriety after a decades-long struggle with addiction and has since dedicated his life and career to helping others find the same life-affirming success he has. Learn more from Per by reading his blog or connect with him via Twitter or LinkedIn.

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Prof. Dibu, Appoints Sacked by President Buhari

New JAMB Registrar

Report just reaching us has it that President Buhari has sacked the Registrar of Joint Admission And Matriculation Board, Professor Dibu Ojerinde and 16 other Chief Executives in parastatals and agencies under the Ministry of Education.

Consequently, Prof Ishaq Oloyede has been appointed the new JAMB Boss.

In a statement, the Ministry of Education disclosed that the appointments are with immediate effect.

Below are the other affected parastatals/agencies and the newly appointed Chief Executives;

1.National Universities Commission (NUC) – Prof Abubakar Adamu Rasheed

2.Nigerian Institute for education Planning and Administration -Pro, Mrs. Lilian Salami

3.Universal Basic Education – Dr. Hameed Bobboyi

4.National library of Nigeria – Prof Lanre Aina

5.National Examinations Council – Prof Charles Uwakwe

6.National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal education – Prof Abba Aladu

7.Nomadic education Commission – Prof Bashir Usman

8.National Business and technical Examinations Board – Prof Isioma Isiugo-Abanihe

9.Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria – Prof Sunday Josiah Ajiboye

10.Computer Registration Council of Nigeria – Afolabi aderinto

11.National Commission for Colleges of Education – Prof Bappah Aliyu

12.Tertiary Education Trust Fund – Dr. Abdullahi Bichi Baffa

13.National Teachers Institute – Prof Garba Dahuwa Azare

14.Libarian Registration Council of Nigeria – Prof Michael Afolabi

15.National Mathematical Centre – Prof Steven Ejugwu Onah

16.National Institute of Nigerian Languages – Prof Chinyere Ohiri-Aniche

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Win up to N500,000 Cash by Answering a Few Questions Online

Here is another great opportunity to win cash prizes online as Skusat NG recently increased its grand prize from N300,000 to N500,000 for participants in the 2nd edition of the 2016 Skusat CBT Contest.

Undergraduates seeking cash grants and aspirants that obtained a score of 180 and above in the last UTME exercise can apply for this program. This is open till September 2nd.

Successful applicants will be rewarded in the forthcoming intuitive test that would be taken online; with a sum of N500,000 cash and also; sub-grants of N100,000, N50,000 and N10,000 to other category of applicants who attain specific grades as outlined in the registration guideline.

TO APPLY:
Visit www.skusat.com/apply-now
IMPORTANT THINGS YOU MUST NOTE:

• Applicants must not be below age 16.
• 400 Level students and above are not eligible to apply.
• Foreign nationals and expatriates are not eligible to participate.
• Applicants must possess the original copy of the document(s) selected during registration. Before grants can be duly awarded, this will be required for a viable clarification from successful applicants only.
• An 8-digit AUTHENTICATION ID will be sent to all registered applicants within 24hrs of submitting the application online.
• Ensure you cross-check your details thoroughly before submitting; as the screening procedure will be strict.
• ONLY ELIGIBLE applicants will be required to obtain a Passcode/PIN for the Live Test with N1,000 only after passing the necessary data verifications involved.
• Immediate past beneficiaries are not eligible to apply.
• The Live test which would be taken online on the 17th of September will consist just 50 questions from various academic spheres. So feel free to share this with your friends today.

Practice questions have been made available on the platform under the “Pre-Test” page and the page can be accessed with the code: 16647260

To qualify for the N500,000 cash grant, applicant must attain at least 80% cumulative score while the sub-grants of N100,000, N50,000 and N10,000 will be duly disbursed to slated number of applicants that obtain scores within the range of (70 – 79)% , (65 – 69)% and (62 – 64)% respectively.

Successful participants will be awarded on the 23rd of September, 2016.

Get up-to-date information about the Skusat Program at www.fb.me/SkusatNG TO APPLY:
Visit www.skusat.com/apply-now

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HND-B.Sc Dichotomy To End Soon - Minister of Education

The Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu has disclosed that the current administration is taking necessary steps towards ending the HND-BSc Dichotomy.

He made this known through the Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. Masa’udu Adamu Kazaure at the 32nd combined convocation and Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Kaduna State Polytechnic.

He equally appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics to exercise patience as efforts are being made to address all their demands within available resources

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Necessary Requirements For A Successful Admission Screening

Many candidates have been asking questions on the kind of preparations they need ahead of their institutions' admission screening exercise.

Like you already know, the screening as stipulated by JAMB will involve the verification of your documents and physical examination of the candidates.

As we have always done, we would like to use this medium to bring you up to speed concerning what is expected of you in preparation towards the screening exercise of your institution.

For the sake of clarity and emphasis, I would like to present them as bullet points.

1. Get Your O-level Results Ready: Candidates are expected to present copies of their O-level Certificates or Statement of Results obtained in not more than two sittings.

Another thing you should know is that if it is up to four years you sat for your O-level examination, your institution will likely require you to present the Original Certificate of the O-level examination instead of statement of results because it is expected that your Original Certificate should be ready after four years.

Therefore, if you sat for your O-level examination four years ago and beyond, it is advisable to go get your O-level Certificate(s) ready before the screening exercise of your institution. For those, whose O-level certificates are not yet available, they can present their statement of result. For such candidates, they may need to provide result checking scratch card (NECO, WAEC, NABTEB, as applicable).

For candidates still waiting for the release of their results, you can go for the screening with your O-level registration slip.

Concerning the combination of results, candidates can combine results even if it is from different examination bodies e.g WAEC and NECO. However, your institution may not allow you to combine NABTEB results with WAEC or NECO results.

2. Determine If You Have the Right Subjects For Your Course of Study: To study your course of study in any institution, you are required to have a minimum of 5 credit passes in the relevant O-level subjects. Many candidates are not sure if their O-level subjects tally with the course they intend to study. Each course of study has specific subjects a candidates must credit before he/she qualifies for admission in that particular course. To determine if you possess the relevant subjects for your course of study, follow the steps below;

For non-android phones/Computer Systems, Access the online JAMB brochure and follow steps

3. Other documents you need To present: In addition to your O-level results, you are to present other documents which may include;

i. Birth Certificate or Affidavit of Age Declaration
ii. JAMB Original Result Slip.
iii. Screening Registration Slip (for those that registered online)
iv. Local Government of Origin (this can be obtained at your LGA Secretariat or your State Liaison Office)

4. Physical examination: JAMB disclosed that candidates will equally be examined based on appearance to know if they are cultists or "future cultists". That sounds funny. I wonder how you can tell who is a cultist or who would likely be one just by looking at the person's face unless you are a fortune teller or a prophet.

Be that as it may, candidates should ensure they dress formal to the screening exercise. Do not put on any thing that will make you look irresponsible. If you have tattoos or piercings on your body, make sure they are removed or well covered before appearing for the screening.

If you have additional questions concerning this, you can use the comment box to ask your questions.

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AKSU Admission Screening 2016: Eligibility, Screening And Registration Details

Candidates who scored 180 and above in the last UTME examination and the general public are hereby notified that the Admission Screening exercise for the 2016/2017 first choice admissions into first degree programmes of Akwa Ibom
State University will hold from the (8th August, 2016) to (12th August, 2016) at the Main Campus, Ikot Akpaden – Mkpat Enin L.G.A from 9.00am daily.

REGISTRATION FOR THE SCREENING EXERCISE
The University portal will open for registration from Monday the 18th of July, 2016 and end on Friday 5th August 2016. Candidates are required to register online for the screening exercise using the following procedure:

Visit http://portals.aksu.edu.ng to generate Pre-Payment Analysis Slip, by following the steps below:
1. Click on REGISTER NOW LINK in the Login Page
2. Select PUTME SCREENING in the Registration Type Panel
3. Click the REGISTER NOW tab.
4. Enter your JAMB Registration Number and click the Verify Link
5. Enter other Bio-data details and click the Verify link
6. Click Make Payment Link, select Bank Option and print the Pre-Payment Analysis Slip.
7. With the Pre-Payment Analysis Slip, visit any of the participating banks listed on the bottom of the slip and request to make payment for AKSU Screening fee using eTransact Payment Platform.
8. Eligible candidates should pay a non-refundable screening fee of N2,500 (bank charges inclusive)
9. Re-visit the school portal to confirm your payment and complete the Registration Form.
10. On successful registration, click the PRINT BUTTON to print the 2016 Screening Schedule / Printout from the University portal.

Note:
Candidates are to appear for screening exercise with the following:
(a) 2016 UTME result slip showing the candidates photograph in colour
(b) Screening schedule slip printed from the University portal
(c) Photocopies of credentials and result checking scratch card (NECO, WAEC, NABTEB, as the case may be) or O’Level examination registration slip (for candidates awaiting result). Genuine scratch cards can be purchased at the e-library of the University (main campus).
(d) Quarto sized envelope with Name, desired Course of Study and UTME registration number boldly written on it.
(e) Four (4) recent coloured passport photograph. NOTE: The photograph uploaded/presented will be the only valid Identification for all admitted candidates throughout their stay in Akwa Ibom State University.
Application for change of passport photograph by candidates offered provisional admission shall NOT be allowed. This same passport photograph, uploaded by such candidates would be used on their degree certificates.
(f) Copy of Certificate of origin from the Local Government.

Applicants who did NOT choose AKSU as the University of Choice in the 2016/2017 UTME are NOT eligible for this exercise.

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Fed Poly Nasarawa Post-UTME 2016: Eligibility, Screening And Registration details

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into ND full time programmes run by the Polytechnic in the 2016/2017 Academic Session as follows:

Eligibility
Candidates that have chosen the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa in the 2016UTME and scored the approved minimum cut-off points (180) and obtain the required credit pass in the appropriate subjects combination are eligible for post-UTME Screening.

Method of Application
Application forms are obtainable on successful payments on the Remita platform. Applicants may use their debit cards (Interswitch, Verve, Mastercard etc) or make cash payments at the bank to get an RRR-code to be used on the platform. A non-refundable fee is required as follows:

ND (Post UTME) 3,500

Candidates are to then proceed to begin their application process via this link: http://fedpolynasarawa.edu.ng/registration/application-steps/

Screening Details
Candidates are to print out their respective slips after registration. The slip should contain date and time schedule for screening.

You are advised to come to the screening with your Post-UTME registration slip as well as your JAMB Original Result Slip. If you do not have this document, click here to get yours

Application Deadline
The deadline for submission of applications is Wednesday, 27th July, 2016.

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FG To Set Up 6 Science Museums This Year – Science & Tech Minister

The Federal Government will build a Science and Technology museum in each of the six geo-political
zones of the country in 2016 according to the Nigerian Minister of Science and Technology, Dr
Ogbonnaya Onu.

Speaking at a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) forum in Abuja, Onu explained that the idea was to
stimulate children's interest in science and technology.

"The science museum is very important. We want our young people to have interest in science and technology.

"A Science and Technology and Innovation Museum will do a lot for us", Onu said. ogbonnaya-onu He continued, "One, all the natural phenomena that happen – lightning, rainfall – we will have
explanations on them there.

"All these little equipment and so on, we will put it in a way that children will start developing interest from early age.

"Then adults will also like to go in because we also showcase major achievements of science and
technology across the country. "It will take us time to get it built but it is very important; there is no major country that does not
have many of those".

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UNIBEN Academic Staff Members Appointed Heads Of 8 Tertiary Institutions In 1 Year

The recent appointments of 8 academic staff members from University of Benin as the heads of various institutions has been described as unprecedented and a demonstration of the pedigree of UNIBEN, which has re-enforced its positive presence in the public domain globally.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Farady Orumwense of University of Benin in a statement congratulated the appointees and urged them top be guided by wise counsel.

Excerpts of the statement read, “If nothing else, these appointments have gone a long way to demonstrate the testimonial of the university and re-enforced the deployment of quality service delivery epitomised by the appointments.

“This is a clear testimony of robust and undisputed quality service to the Nigerian nation in particular and the world at large.”

Those appointed include: Prof. Akii Ibhadode, V-C, Federal University of Petroleum Resources and Engineering (FUPRE); Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, V-C of newly established Edo State University, Iyamho; Prof. Sunny Onoheabhi, Rector, Institute of Building Technology, Uromi.

Others are: Prof. Frank Otunta, V-C, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike; Prof. Austin Asagba, V-C, Western Delta University, Ogharra; Prof. Friday Okonofua, V-C Medical University, Ondo State; Prof. Samuel Aduwa-Ogiegbaen,V-C, Tayo Akpata University of Education, among others.

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OSCOTECH School Fees Increment Reversed

It was gathered that following the protest and the consequent dialogue between the Students' Union and the management of Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, the following has resulted;

-The hiked school fee (#25,000 to #40,000) has been reverse.

-The newly introduced Practical fee of #10,000 has been cancelled.

-The dissolved member union will be reinstated immediately the school is re-opened and no students' union leader will be victimized.

Now students await the resumption of academic activities in the school.

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Apply for a free Global Adventure and Internship (I.T.) by AXA

It’s back! After the success of last year, the Great Global Adventure by AXA has launched round two, with the same international experience prize and an even better game. Play now for your chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for up to one year, including worldwide travel, work experience at two global AXA offices and the opportunity to contribute to a community project.

Every journey begins with a small step or in this case, it could start with a single click.

As you travel around some of AXA’s global locations, you’ll complete a series of challenges. Each should take around 5-10 minutes. You can go through the whole game in one go or take it a challenge at a time, saving your progress as you go. You score points along the way, and the aim is to gain as many points as possible to be in with the chance of winning some amazing prizes: from the latest technology products to a once-in-a-lifetime travel and work experience.

The competition is open to higher education students and those who have graduated from higher education since February 2014.

The competition closes on 8th May 2016.

Taking part in the bright, new Great Global Adventure by AXA, you’ll ‘travel’ around some of AXA’s global locations, answering a series of general knowledge questions that will lead you to your next city destination. At each destination, you’ll complete a challenge and gain points along the way.

Don’t worry, there will be plenty of hints and tips along the way, as well as the opportunity to skip a challenge if you get stuck. Make sure you’re following the ‘Discover AXA’ social media channels too, where clues will be shared to help you.

The aim is to complete the game, and gain as many points as possible along the way. The highest scoring players across the world will then be invited to compete for an unforgettable global adventure prize. Last year’s winner, Will Moore, has been busy travelling the world, enjoying global work experience and turning his hand to community projects. Could you be next? Play now for your chance to win.

The grand prize

The exciting prize is a funded, around-the-world adventure for up to a year, open to higher education students and recent graduates. As well as up to 8 months worldwide travel, it will also include two six-week work experience placements at two different AXA global locations and community work experience with one of their Corporate Responsibility partners.

AXA will help the winner to shape the prize around their circumstances and interests, taking into account their personal safety. Travel and living expenses will be funded. The winner will be expected to start the journey no later than December 2016 for up to one year.

What’s it like to win? Follow @greatglobaladventurer on Instagram to see previous winner Will’s experience for yourself. He’s travelled the Trans-Siberian railway, hiked the Great Wall of China, learnt a lot from his Hong Kong internship and made great new friends along the way.

Play now for your chance to be the next Great Global Adventurer. Click here to start or visit www.greatglobaladventure.com

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Tertiary Institutions Should Focus More On Skill Rather Than Certificate Acquisition - Gov. Okowa

The Governor of Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has called for a review of the curricula of tertiary institutions.

He made this call during the 10th Convocation Ceremony of the Delta State University, Abraka.

According to him, tertiary institutions should give more attention to raising entrepreneurial leaders, wealth creators and change agents in the society who would drive the much needed economic diversification.

In his words, “There is the need for a painstaking review of the curricula of our tertiary institutions with strong emphasis on skill acquisition, not certificate acquisition, and leadership development as against rote learning. A situation where billions of naira is spent by companies and government in retraining graduates from our universities is no longer acceptable”, he said.

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22 Visually Impaired 2016 UTME Candidates With Amazing Results Seek Sponsors

The proprietress of Bethesda Home for the Blind has disclosed that 22 visually impaired candidates from the home who participated in the 2016 UTME did exceptionally well.

According to her, one of the students from the home scored 268 points which is the highest among the visually challenged students.

She further revealed that five of the candidates scored 250 points each, five others had 240 points apiece and another five students scored 235 points each. The least score among her candidates was 222.

She solicited for the support of the Government, stake holders and well meaning Nigerians to enable these candidates to further their educations.

She mentioned that the candidates from the Home that participated in 2015 UTME recorded similar brilliant results but could not proceed to higher education due to lack of sponsorship.

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Fed Poly Nekede Part-time Admission 2016/2017 Announced

This is to inform the public that the 2016/2017 part-time programme of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede has been announced.

Candidates are to visit http://ndapplication.fpno.edu.ng/ to generate appropriate invoices and proceed to designated banks to make payment and after wards return to the portal to complete their registration.

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The Key To Business Success Is Increased Productivity

Time is money. It’s an old cliché that you’ve probably heard a million times, but there is no denying that those sentiments ring truer than ever. If you want to achieve great things in the modern business world, it’s imperative that you are using your resources effectively. If you aren’t doing so, then you will be left behind by your competitors.
There are many steps that can be made to improve the workflow through your business operations. Follow the follow four tips, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your productivity improves.

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Better Staffing

The greatest resource at your disposal is the staff. However, it’s not just a case of getting great results from them. You also need to do it in the most cost-effective manner.
As a business owner, it’s important to assess your options. Outsourcing is a great way to reduce the need for bigger office spaces or special equipment. Alternatively, temporary staff are often a great way to get through busy periods. Experts at PNP Staffing Group can help you with those needs. It doesn’t matter how the work is completed. Just as long as it is done so in the most efficient manner possible.

Be Organised

When it comes to business, there’s no substitute for good organisation. Those skills are some of the most sought after from your employees. However, you will only see positive results if you provide them with the right facilities.
Many modern businesses are turning to cloud computing. These systems allow you to remove the need for mass paperwork while they can also promote better collaborations. Meanwhile, ensuring that work premises are kept tidy will also save a lot of hassle throughout the working day too. And with less time wasted, your team should achieve far greater results.

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Invest In Better Equipment

Advanced tech isn’t just used to improve organisation, though. It can actively allow you to complete more processes. Maintaining the health of your computers, for example, allow office workers to get through more work. This can only be good news.
Similarly, warehouses and manufacturing areas can benefit from having modern machinery too. If it speeds up those processes, you’ll naturally get more work completed. Of course, the exact products will be determined by your industry. Nevertheless, this is the only way to stay ahead of the game.

Encourage Communication

Good communication is at the heart of all successful businesses, and your company should be no different. The starting point for embracing these positive vibes is to ensure that your team meetings are productive. A team that knows its individual and collective duties will always be better prepared for the challenge ahead.
If your company is split across various locations, you can use modern tech too. Skype and video conferencing software can allow you to communicate without the need for travel. Hook the computer up to the boardroom TV, and there should be no issues for anyone. If nothing else, promoting better communication will also encourage improvements to customer relations too

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5 Health & Safety Secrets For Business Owners

As a business owner, you’re often preoccupied by the core aspects of business. Simply running a company and keeping the clocks ticking is hard enough. However, it’s an entrepreneur’s job to worry about health and safety too. It might seem like an inconvenience. It might even seem unimportant in your line of business. But, no matter what industry you’re in, health and safety is a crucial consideration. If anyone – an employee, a client, a customer – is injured on your premises, you are responsible. As a company owner, you have a duty of care for everyone that interacts with your company. We’ve learnt a few tricks and tips to help you out here. Let’s take a look in detail, shall we?

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1. Communication is the core of health and safety

Your number one priority is improving communication in the workplace. Your workers must feel comfortable coming to you with their health and safety concerns. Operate an open-door policy when it comes to safety worries. Communication also works the other way around. Actively ask your employees what you could do to help them. What could your business do to make them feel safer and more secure in their jobs? For advice on how to improve this communication, visit http://www.forbes.com. When the workplace is safe, your employees work with confidence. So, it’s in everyone’s interests.

2. Identify and report hazards

When you run a business day-in-day-out, it’s easy to miss the obvious hazards. Workplace hazards become second-nature to you. They become part of the office. Next thing you know, an employee trips and falls because of it. That’s why an active approach towards hazard identification is vital. It’s particularly crucial in dangerous environments like warehouses and factories. However, even a simple office has a host of potential hazards. Encourage an environment where employees are able to report any hazards they do see.

3. Put someone in charge

The safest offices, factories, and work spaces have a key person in charge of safety. That person is typically the operations manager, or designated safety officer in larger companies. If you’re a smaller company, make it your most reliable and sensible employee! Make sure everyone knows to report hazards to that person. Ensure that they themselves are on the lookout for safety concerns. When there’s a clear structure in place, it’s easy to maintain safety.

4. Safe storage

Safety becomes a concern when things aren’t kept in the correct place. It’s a particular concern when it comes to dangerous hazards and chemicals. Returning dangerous equipment to a designated place keeps it out of the way of others. Meanwhile, storing hazardous chemicals is a simple necessity. If you’re looking for safety storage, visit https://denios-us.com.

5. Independent safety audit

It’s always worth bringing in a new pair of eyes into the business. An independent audit team will spot any weaknesses or gaps in your health and safety. They provide an outside, experienced perspective, and point out things you may have missed. They’ll also give you a detailed plan for improving the situation.
That’s all for now, folks. Take your health and safety seriously, and don’t cut any corners.

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Five Practical Tips Every Entrepreneur Should Know

Setting out to be your own boss and realize your business dreams can be a scary prospect. The fact is, many startup companies simply aren’t capable of going the distance. However, there are ways to boost your chances of success. Here are five practical tips that all budding entrepreneurs should know.

1) There’s no substitute for a suitable workspace

An appropriate base is a must for all businesses. Exactly what this is will depend on the setup of your company. If it’s just you and you spend your days at a computer, this could be as simple as a well-equipped home office. Alternatively, if you have staff members, you might need a larger commercial workspace. When choosing a premises, make sure it’s in a suitable location and it falls within your budget. It must be well equipped too. As Calibre point out comfortable and practical office furniture is essential, and you’ll need plenty of storage. The easiest way to stock up on these resources is to shop for them online. However, if you want to be completely sure that your furnishings are up to scratch, it helps to test them out in person before you purchase them. As well as good quality chairs, desks and storage solutions, your office should have reliable phone and internet connections.

2) Your business must address a real need

Your business idea doesn’t have to be mind-blowing in its originality, but it does have to address a real consumer need. According to CB Insights, a lack of market need is one of the common reasons for startup failures. So, at the very outset of your business, it’s important to do plenty of research to see whether your products or services will be in demand.

3) You’ll have to keep an eye on cash flow

Be sure to keep a constant eye on cash flow. Highlighting the importance of this issue, a study conducted by Dunn & Bradstreet suggested that 90 per cent of small business failures are caused by poor cash flow. To minimize the risk of this scuppering your startup, you should set cash flow targets, agree clear payment terms with customers and send your invoices out quickly.

4) Micromanaging can boost your stress and harm your success

Another tip is to avoid the temptation to micromanage every aspect of your company. If everything has to go through you, bottlenecks could build up, slowing your processes down. Also, you might fail to make full use of your personnel. Ultimately, trying to oversee all decisions, even the small ones, will cause your stress levels to soar and it could harm your company’s success.

5) It pays to listen to the experts      

On a related point, it’s wise to tap into the expertise of others. Bear in mind that as well as being able to talk, you must be able to listen if you’re to fulfil your potential in business. Everything from reading advice online to seeking help from business mentors can help to boost your business’ prospects.

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UNILAG Gets New DVC

Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe has been appointed the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Research of the University of Lagos.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Deputy Registrar, Information, Mr Toyin Adebule.

His appointment was with effect from April 1, 2016

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How To Buy and Sell Data MTN Etisalat Glo Airtel, Cheap Data Plan

It's all about how to start a business with Mtn, Glo, Etisalat and Airtel. You won't be selling recharge cards or registering sim cards though. You'll be selling data! And you'll do so at a moderately cheap price.

The act of selling data on Mtn is known as Mtn SME.
You can equally transfer data on all the other networks in Nigeria and I'll be showing you just how to do the transfer in different ways.

You can choose to set your own price for the data you sell. You can choose to sell for 1gb for 1k, 2gb for 1,400 and things like that. You just have to seat down and do some calculation so you can figure out how you can sell your data and still retain some profit.

It's all about the business of buying data in bulk and then selling it off at your own price to make some gain.
Let's start with Mtn.

MTN SME Data Reseller: How to Start The Business Profitably and make some money with only your sim card and a phone!

Step 1: How To Join The MTN SME Data Share Program

who can sell Mtn Data via SME?

As earlier noted, everyone is eligible to join the SME program. In order to To join Mtn SME , simply Migrate to MTN SME Plus Tariff using either of the two methods below:

After that, you'll need to buy the data in bulk and store it. You can do that through the use of codes or by Sms.

Subscription Code For MTN SME Data Share Via Sms :[/b] Send 460 To 131 OR

If you wanna do it the big boy way with codes, here's how.

USSD Subscription Code For MTN SME Data Share Via USSD: Dial *460#

STEP 2: Select The Plan You Want To Subscribe

Duration of Mtn SME Data

It's very crucial that you know that All Mtn SME Data Plans are valid for only 30days

Available Mtn SME Data Plans

Quote

PLAN A : 10GIG
Amount : 10, 000Naira
validity : 30days
10 GIG SME SMS Subscription Code : 465 to 131
USSD Subscription Code *461# and follow the instruction

PLAN B : 20GIG
Amount : 18, 000Naira
validity : 30days
20GIG SME SMS Subscription Code : 466 to 131
USSD Subscription Code *461# and follow the instruction

PLAN C : 50GIG
Amount : 40,000Naira
validity : 30days
50GIG SME SMS Subscription Code : 467 to 131
USSD Subscription Code *461# and follow the instruction

PLAN D: 75GIG
Amount : 52,500Naira
validity : 30days
75GIG SME SMS Subscription Code : 468 to 131
USSD Subscription Code *461# and follow the instruction

After subscribing to any of the SME plans described above, the next thing is setting your price for the plans.

The price you sell the plans largely depends on the one you purchased. For ex, if you purchase the plan of 74gb,you'll surely make gains even if you reduce the price well and because you don't want to have anything remaining by months end, you'll want to sell everything off.

I wont advice you to purchase such large quantities unless you are certain that you can sell it off!

How can you sell the Data you just purchased with Mtn SME
You are allowed to distribute only in the normal subscription pattern of at least 1GIG or more, as many times as you wish to prospecting customers.

How To Transfer / Distribute MTN SME Data Share Plan

Send Text Only In This Format :

SMESHARE

Example : SMESHARE 08126114641 750 1256

You have to leave a space in between each entry,  just like we do when we want to transfer airtime.
You can actually test it with the number above and I'll call to tell you that it worked if I have your number, lols.

Important facts about MTN SME

To be able to manage the Mtn SME business well, you'll have to know the following.

1. To check your remaining balance at any time, simply send DATABALANCE in an SMS to 131
2. beneficiaries can check their data balance, you should tell them to dial the code4617#
3. you can use your already existing MTN PIN to share data
4. Based on those standard data sizes that you share to your clients/beneficiaries, you have to determine the prices yourself in which you want to offer the shared data and also the means in which you would love to receive payment.
5. The higher the data bundle plan you go for, the better your profits will turn out to be after selling it.
6. Any of SME data bundles that you purchased as a reseller is valid for 30 days
7. you can always top up your SME bundles at any given time, regardless of any unfinished data, and whenever you do so, your validity period is extended by another 30 days
8. your beneficiaries validity period always start counting from the very last time the reseller subscribed to a new data plan after sending.
9. As a reseller if you want to send data in excess of 1GB, you will have to share it twice, thrice and so on

Usability of Mtn SME across devices

ALL DATA PACKAGE WORK  ACROSS All DEVICES, Android, iPhone, Pc and others.

Start Your MTN SME Data Sharing Business today!!!

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Boko Haram Declares Total War on President Buhari & Vows To Blow Up Aso Rock – Photos & Full Stateme

Boko Haram Islamic terrorist sect who vowed to
match the fire power of the Nigerian military,
declared war on the administration of President
Muhammadu Buhari in a new video which was
released few hours ago.
The leader of the Boko Haram insurgents reading the
speech
In a new video released several hours ago, a leader
of the deadly Boko Haram terrorists have warned
President Muhammadu Buhari regarding making any
move, which could backfire on him and the generality
of Nigerians.
Reading from a prepared written text, the group said
it could be forced to attack Aso Rock Villa while also
affirming their continued oath of allegiance to the
Islamic State (ISIS).
The leader of the terrorists started his speech by
reading from a prepared sheet. He said:
“Verily, the enemies of God have organised meetings
to seek for solutions to what they found themselves
in despair and dejection.
“They are trying to free themselves, their
representatives and leaders from the hardship. They
gathered all their forces with a pledge using media,
radio and internet that they would finish the soldiers
of monotheism. The enemies of God are being
punished through loss of their lives, properties and
ammunitions.
A heavy weapons, fighting vehicles are behind the
insurgents
“This is in Nigeria, Cameroun, Niger republic’s border
or in Chad, their allied forces became afraid when
they saw our fighters even after their alliance. Even
though they support themselves and the followers
who committed apostasy and the Shiites, that did not
benefit them. While we, the monotheists reaffirmed
that victory is really from God.
“And this alliance has made us continue in this path
of cleansing this land off unbelievers and those who
turn their back on Islam. It is a tradition of
unbelievers at any time and any generation when
they lose hope from stopping the truth. They run to
organise their plans and spread lies to Mujahid
fighters so they can stop people from following the
path of God.
“If you do not believe this, as those who fought us in
the towns of Gudunbali and Geidam. We warned
them against any joint alliance with either Chad or
Niger republic. The government is threading the path
of the infidels. God is the greatest of all planners.
They all planned, but God is the best of all planners.
A screenshot of the video clip showing members of
the Boko Haram terrorists group
“We will fight the whole of Africa, because they are all
unbelievers. With our consensus, they are all
unbelievers. Their forces will all gather to harm us,
but they will fail, because they will not see us. Even if
they block all the entrances, we will still get in.
Consequently, we will continue with our efforts until
the religion of Islam takes over. And if they refuse or
are stubborn, we will attack them. In Africa, our role
model is Sheikh Abu Muhammad Abubakar (May
God protect him).
“Our brothers who are fighting like us are in Syria,
Libya, Iraq, and other places. By God’s grace, we will
continue to move on. There won’t peace. There won’t
be security. There won’t peace of mind, until all the
unbelievers return to God. All of you will not know
any happiness, unless the unbelievers among you
have faith in God and accept His way.
“We are saying President Muhammadu Buhari is an
infidel (unbeliever). Christians don’t have any
importance at all. We don’t have anything to do with
them at all. They will still blame themselves. And a
time will come, whereby their complaint will not be
useful again.
Boko Haram insurgents pose in the latest video
“Buhari, in your house, called Aso Rock Villa, we
believe you are watching us right now. Be careful of
us. At this place we are standing, we are speaking
with one voice on behalf of all the Muslims.
“You believers, if a bad person comes to you to
inform you about something, be careful of such a
person. Therefore, all radio houses, the internet, and
all media of news dissemination, are all following the
path of the infidels
“We are saying that the soldier of Muslim is Abu Bakr
Baghdadi. We are telling our followers to be patient
and rely on God. Because, a time is coming when we
will give thanks to God on our achievements.”

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