A Viewpoints Industry Fist Pump for Healthier Ways to Greet Someone

The standard way we know to greet someone is to shake their hand. But there are several reasons why this normal business and personal greeting is no longer the healthiest way to say “nice to meet you”. Viewpoints Industry examines other ways to in which to show respect and be friendly.

Unknown to many people, a simple fist pump with another person spreads far less germs (one-twentieth) than a handshake. A high-five spreads half as many germs as a handshake. Hand shakes are a very common greeting in all facets of business and in nearly every part of the world. But it is also a very efficient way to spread germs. Health experts recommend washing your hands or using a sanitizer on hands after shaking someone else’s in a hospital, urgent care center, health clinic or with a food worker. A more sanitary way to greet someone might be to offer a small bow, or a smile. In the U.S., younger professionals might view the fist pump as a cool way to say “job well done” or “nice to meet you”.  Viewpoints Industry also knows that handshakes will always be the norm, and with a little good hygiene, can be less of a germy way to introduce oneself. 

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry Offers Tips of What NOT to Say at a Job Interview

Viewpoints Industry knows:  we've all been there.  The job interview that seems to be percolating along just fine.  You feel a connection with the interviewer and you think you're saying all the right things.  But somehow it goes afowl and either ends badly, or you never hear from them again.  Was it something you said?  It very well may have been.  Most of us are familiar with the landmines to avoid in the primary job interview, such as salary, benefits, vacation or the interviewer's hideous comb-over.  But there may be other subjects waiting to strike if you happen to say something that is either unwise or too early.  An excellent example of this is:  "What does your company do?"  Theoretically, you were supposed to know the answer to that before you applied so that it doesn't appear too obvious that you were just after "a job, any job".  Walk into the interview having done thorough research into the company.  And here's a potential trap:  that goes for a telephone interiew as well, so if you're blindsided by a call from a recruiter who wants to conduct a phone interview on the spot and her first question is:  "What do you know about our company?", it will definitely be a sweat-inducing moment if you haven't done your homework early.

Viewpoints Industry has heard that there can be hidden traps in a job interview.

The Viewpoints Industry TV show can suggest other things you should not say during the first interview for a job.  One candidacy killer is:  "What is your drug testing policy?"  That makes it sound like you wouldn't pass that test if it were given now.  While it's fine to ask about opportunities for advancement, never suggest you want the interviewer's job.  Asking about overtime can be a double-edged sword.  It can sound like you probably won't get your work done in regular time and you might cost them a lot in overtime payments, or it might just sound like you're not willing to stay beyond the end-of-day bell.  And finally, the best way to show you're not really interested, not listening and not absorbing anything the interviewer says, is to ask questions that have already been answered.  Good luck, and watch what you say.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry Asks: What Happens to Your Online Persona When You Pass On?

Viewpoints Industry realizes that after the passing of a loved one, there is much work to be done to finalize the deceased one's affairs and deal with any residual bank accounts, charge cards and other financial matters.  But what of other kinds of accounts, such as social media?  What happens to somebody's Facebook or other account after the subject of that account is no longer with us?  What of photos, blogs and comments that might be somewhat embarrassing?  The laws concerning these matters are not consistent from state to state.  This is typical of new media, as the lawmakers are only just encountering their first cases of this kind of dilemma, so they are striving to play catchup. 

Viewpoints Industry finds that the laws concerning online social media are not clear after death.

The Viewpoints Industry TV show cautions that this area of law is a tricky minefield.  There is an effort underway to cobble together a set of uniform laws that can stand in all states and that overrule some service providers' self-made "Terms of Service" rules.  Some of these terms and conditions are worded in such a way that it appears that any individual's content becomes property of the service provider, or at least that the provider has the right to use any content in perpetuity.  This has never sat well with many people, and when coming up against something like a Last Will and Testament, it will be interesting to see if they hold up.  

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry and the Value of Prepaid Debit Cards

There are different reasons as to why people use a prepaid debit card. Perhaps they wish to avoid using a standard bank or want to deposit a child’s allowance on a card. For some, this is a good option. Viewpoints Industry reviews the value of prepaid debit cards.

 Prepaid debit cards are safer to carry than cash, easier to use and allow a person to use it online when they have no other option. There are no overdraft fees with a prepaid card and everyone is approved. However, some of the cards come with a lot of fees and some of the rather hefty. Take time to research everything about the card before purchasing one and depositing money on it.

The money loaded on prepaid cards tripled between 2008 and 2012 as reported by Mercator Advisory Group, and the total is expected to more than double by the end of next year. Only 32% of the people who bought and used a prepaid card last year actually spent time reviewing the fees for it, according to a 2014 Pew study.

Fortunately, CardHub.com offers a guide for the top prepaid cards and their fees so possible users can find the best option. Having used a prepaid card for several years, this writer can vouch for their usefulness. Viewpoints Industry encourages readers to do the homework on prepaid cards to determine their value for your use. Not all cards are equal. Some are better than others. Follow the CardHub link above to find the prepaid card with the best terms.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry Shares How to Get Rid of Telemarketers

Remember the national Do Not Call list? The list most people entered their land line and cell phone numbers on to not be bothered by telemarketers?  We know it is hard to believe but telemarketers keep calling anyway. Viewpoints Industry shares tips on how to get rid of them.

A recent consumer report from ABC News led us to the website of a company called Privacy Star which lists all the phone numberstelemarketers are using now. The once well-known 800 and 866 numbers are gone and standard area codes are in. We also learned there are ways to get rid of telemarketing calls as well as making some money off of those who ignore the list. The key to the list which is linked above is to know that the numbers on the top of the list are used more frequently than those closer to the bottom. The list is updated hourly.

Viewpoints Industry finds one of the easiest ways to block telemarketing calls is to manually block the number on a smart phone or on a cell provider’s web site. This might prevent the call from coming through. If the phone number is new, register it on the do not call list. If calls still come in, it is possible to sue the telemarketer for $500 per call. One can also join a class action lawsuit or file one alone. Since telemarketers call more than once, the possibility of winning more than $500 is likely. Good luck.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry and Borrowing from a 401(k) Plan

There are times when it is absolutely necessary to borrow from a 401(k) retirement plan. Viewpoints Industry shares the types of loans to take that won’t hurt you in the long run.

Keep in mind that some plans and some employers have set rules on taking a loan from a retirement plan. If you need to borrow money from the plan, it is best to know that you won’t lose your job soon and can pay it back within the timeline given. Payments are taken from your paycheck. That is something else to remember before taking money from a retirement plan. Always be sure to read all of the terms and conditions before signing on the line to borrow money from the plan.

If you find yourself out of work with a lot of credit card debt, consider borrowing from the plan to pay off the debt. But be sure there are enough funds in the plan to do this. If wanting the loan to buy a new car or home, traditional loans are better and the percentage rates are usually better.

The 401(k) loan is good for a short-term loan rather than a long-term loan. Viewpoints Industry suggests holding off from borrowing from a retirement plan if possible. The funds growing in the account will be needed when it is time to retire. With the economy still struggling to get on track and the job market looking iffy at best, save those funds for the future. Instead, go to a financial website like bankrate.com and see if there are any banks willing to compete to give you a better loan deal for your needs.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry and What Happens to Your Online Life After You’re Gone?

Many of us know what will happen to our possessions, pets and mementos after we leave this life. There are wills and estate papers to sort that all out. But Viewpoints Industry asks what happens to your online life after you’re gone?

When an acquaintance was suddenly taken from this life not long ago, his Facebook and Twitter accounts stayed active. His many friends, colleagues and family members were grateful for that. It gave everyone a chance to pay homage and let his family know how much we all admired him and loved him. But the social media sites we all love to connect on have their own policies about what to do with the accounts when a user dies.

The Uniform Law Commission, (members are appointed by state governments to help standardize state laws), will soon endorse a plan that will give loved ones access to - but not control of - the deceased's digital accounts, unless specified otherwise in a will. It is therefore, a good idea to have written instructions in a will about who should have access to online accounts. Whoever is chosen can deactivate accounts or make other decisions about what to do with them.

Viewpoints Industry also reminds readers that most online accounts accessed by sharing the passwords. Perhaps this is a safer idea than attaching a sheet with log in credentials to a will, which can become public information. It’s up to you. Who do you want to access the files from your digital life when you expire?

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry Sheds Light on Auto Insurance Discounts

The cost of owning a car or other vehicle keeps rising every year. From gas to maintenance to safety, where can the consumer catch a break? Viewpoints Industry suggests looking for discounts that the auto insurer may not know about and are worth asking for when it is time to renew.

Instead of living with the rate the auto insurer gives, start asking for the discounts which might be available and check regularly to be sure they are being given. Many people choose the auto pay option when renewing insurance plans. But do a little research on available discounts first and then call the agent to get them.

Daytime running lights – Auto makers General Motors, Toyota , Volvo, Mercedes-Benz or Subaru already have this option on newer cars. If your car has daytime running lights, be sure to mention this to the agent before renewal to request this discount.

Alumni discount -- Almost half of the nation’s insurers offer some type of discount if you or a spouse belongs to an alumni association, fraternities, sororities, or professional organizations. If you belong to one or more, ask if a discount is offered.

Anti-theft devices, anti lock breaks, military service, safe driving record, kids of driving age with excellent grades – these are some of the other discounts one can take advantage of. Viewpoints Industry TV also knows that it pays to have a good credit score since that is the one item most likely to reduce the rate in the first place.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Facebook

Viewpoints Industry Looks at the Imminent Demise of Red Light Cameras

Viewpoints Industry has heard for years that one should assume nothing.  But there are certain assumptions that come with an organized civilization, and without these assumptions, we would not be able to function.  Nowhere else is this as true as on the road.  A driver would be petrified to put pressure on the gas pedal if he or she couldn't assume that other drivers were going to go with the program and obey some very basic rules.  High on this list of rules is that a green light means go and a red light means stop.  But lately, we seem to have a class of individual who feels that red lights are for everyone else, but not for them.  Running red lights kills people; it's happened more times than anyone would care to count.  Enter the Red Light Camera, a device that is suppose to ensure prosecution of these red light runners.  At first, this was a good thing.  But greed soon took hold and many jurisdictions are now getting rid of these cameras.

Viewpoints Industry asks:  Ask not for whom the red light shines ... it shines for us all.

The Viewpoints Industry TV show believes that stopping the rampant violation of red lights is a noble pursuit.  But it didn't take long for municipalities to become intoxicated from all the revenue the cameras brought in, so they widened the scope to include any little infraction that a driver might make within view of the camera's lens.  Even the choice of intersections was a clue, as they seemed to be installed at the busiest corners, not necessarily the most dangerous ones.  The public soon responded to this fiscal abuse and decried red light cameras as being a greedy cash cow.  It will be unfortunate if, when the dust settles and most of these cameras have been removed, that more lives are lost due to those who will not obey a red traffic light.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me

Viewpoints Industry Explores the Phenomenon of Fame

Viewpoints Industry asks:  what is fame?  Plain and simple, it's when "everybody knows your name", to borrow a phrase from a famous television sitcom.  Fame holds no judgment.  People can be famous for being good, doing great deeds and generally being outstanding pillars of society.  People can also be famous, or infamous, for doing extraordinarily bad things.  The public, in its clamoring for fame or to be near someone who is famous, doesn't seem to care which.  Mass murderers sitting on death row receive fan mail and even marriage proposals.  We can get fiercely intoxicated by the idea of being the center of attention, or even being a few steps from that spotlight.

Viewpoints Industry takes a look at that strange drug called fame.

The Viewpoints Industry TV show notes that while fame can separate the few from the many, it can also be a great leveler in some unfortunate ways.  A magnificent Shakespearean-trained actor may possess equal notoriety with a crass, incompetent comedian.  Practitioners in every branch of the arts have seen grossly untalented people rise to great heights while masters of their craft waste away unheralded.  There are even those who are world renowned without having done a single noteworthy act.  They are said to be "famous for being famous".  Perhaps artist Andy Warhol had the ultimate solution when he predicted that eventually every one of us will be famous ... for 15 minutes.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me

Viewpoints Industry and Why Low Cost Airlines Have Fans No Matter What

Southwest Airlines is a favorite for many regional fliers as it usually offers low fares and great customer service. It seems, however, that even though those fares are rising, its fans are still buying tickets. Viewpoints Industry provides some background about why low cost airlines have fans no matter what.

Great customer service is always appreciated. From friendly reps on the phone to always positive flight attendants, Southwest can’t go wrong here. Jet Blue is another low cost airline which its customers love no matter what.  Both airlines fly specific routes and are easy to work with if a flight needs changing and bag checked. It is easy to see on their websites what the total cost of a fare will be including all ancillary fees. Other airlines offer rock bottom fares but charge for the things every passenger wants: overhead space, a bottle of water or a can of soda, a pillow and perhaps one checked bag.

Viewpoints Industry TV notes that many business travelers will take the same airline to and from their desired destination and earn rewards with frequent flier clubs. Some use the regional low cost carrier of their choice for weekly commutes. These airlines have mastered the art of customer service and have earned the loyalty of consumers. And this is why they rank at the top of best low cost airlines lists.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me

Viewpoints Industry Offers Tips about Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a good bet if you are traveling overseas or on a cruise. But who can determine if one needs it or not? You can. Viewpoints Industry offers some tips about buying travel insurance.

There are four basic types of travel insurance:  trip-cancellation, baggage loss or damage, emergency medical care and accidental death. Do you need all of them?

Review all of the credit card policies you have to see which ones already offer travel insurance and what they cover. This is the best place to start since many cards have some type of coverage. Once you know what you need, it’s time to do some homework.

Baggage loss or damage and trip-cancellation are the most common reasons people buy travel insurance. Cruises can be cancelled days before departure. Bags can be misrouted easily enough. Be sure before you leave your house that you have some backup reimbursement to cover both.

Check homeowner’s and renter’s insurance to see if those types of insurance will cover any valuables (jewelry or electronics) on the trip.

Viewpoints Industry also recommends checking any health policies to see if and what they cover when traveling – especially overseas.

Go online and read as many reviews for the travel insurance company as possible then pick the one you think is best.

Once this information is known and you know what you might need while away, buy a policy that covers what you need and has an easy to access phone number to call when needed. Enjoy your trip knowing that you’re covered for a just in case possibility.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me

Viewpoints Industry Offers Food Safety Advice for Summer

In most parts of the United States, it is hot and humid outside. It is also grilling season. Viewpoints Industry TV offer suggestions on how to keep food safe from bacteria when sun is beaming.

Picnics and outdoor parties are the norm during the pleasant days and evenings of summer. Let’s keep all food safe from anything which can make us feel like a beached jellyfish.

• Keep all food made with mayonnaise refrigerated before serving. Find, buy and use eggless mayo if needing it for salads and sandwiches.
• Avoid making anything with eggs and leaving it on a table outside until ready to eat.
• Oysters should be cooked, boiled, broiled or fried to avoid consuming virbrio, a warm salt water-based bacteria. If one has to have them raw and on the half shell, throw out any that have a cracked shell or are partially open since the salt water can enter them that way.
• Grill food at lower temperatures to avoid charring it. The char burnt portion of meat contains chemicals which can be carcinogenic. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches the right temp to kill bacteria.
• Raw meat should be stored in the fridge or freezer. Defrost frozen meat in the fridge overnight, in the microwave, or in a bowl of cold water. Never leave it on the counter all day long in the summer.
• Wash all summer fruit such as peaches and strawberries carefully to rid them of pesticides. Keep them fresh in the fridge.
• Going to a farmer’s market? Be sure to go early instead of later in the day. Vegetables that have been sitting in the heat too long start to go bad.

The Viewpoints Industry TV show wishes everyone a safe, healthy and happy summer.


——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me

Viewpoints Industry on ID Theft Vigilance

According to the Identity Resource Center, there have been 368 identity theft breaches so far this year. That number is up almost 19% from the same time last year. Viewpoints Industry reminds readers how they can be more vigilant to protecting their identity.

More than 10 million personal records have been exposed in 2014. The Bureau of Justice Statistics found that 16.6 million American adults experiences ID theft in 2012. The same agency reports that there were 6.8 million total non-fatal violent crimes during the same time.  These are astounding statistics to ponder. How can the average consumer better protect themselves from identity theft?

Change user name and passwords to financial and credit card companies every month or two. Use a strong password combo which is longer than 8 characters, contains numbers, small and capital letters and a variety of symbols for each account.

Create an email address from one of the free sites like Hotmail to collect junk email and sale notices.

Never give your Social Security Number to anyone who has no need for it such as on an employment application before being hired, in a doctor’s office or in a store.

Review financial and credit accounts every week to be sure every cent is one you spent and one someone else did not. If you find a discrepancy, contact the institution immediately.

Viewpoints Industry TV learns that is takes about 9 hours to clear up ID theft issues, and some people who’ve been affected spent more than a day doing so.  In order to prevent the aggravating hassle of ID theft, remain vigilant when checking accounts online and in person.

——————————————————- 
Follow Viewpoints Industry TV on Google+ 
Visit the Viewpoints Industry TV Pressroom
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on Myspace
Visit Viewpoints Industry TV on About Me