We Are Augustines

We Are Augustines

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How You Can Choose the Best Professional Cleaning Service for Your Needs

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Cleaning services may already be a ‘dime a dozen’ as they say, especially in big cities like London, but if you need a professional cleaning service for your home, rental property, or office, how can you be sure that you are choosing the best one? Selecting the best professional cleaning service isn’t easy, particularly if you need one which can give you the exceptional level of service you expect. So how can you make sure that the cleaning service you are choosing is right for your needs? Here’s how you can choose the best professional cleaning service you require.

  1. Check their level of experience

A lot of cleaning services have emerged in recent years, but there aren’t many formal requirements when it comes to running a cleaning service, and this is where it becomes a bit tricky. This is why one of the very first things you should look for is the cleaning service’s level of experience. How many years have they been operating? If they have existed for a few years and they are still in the running, this is a good sign, as it means that they have already acquired more than a few loyal clients. If the company is reliable and is known for its professionalism, this is a good sign as well.

But their level of experience doesn’t just amount to how many years they have been in operation. You also have to think about their expertise – how experienced are they with the kind of cleaning you require? Do they offer other services aside from just regular cleaning? For instance, do they offer more extensive cleaning services like end of tenancy cleaning (such as the end of tenancy cleaning London professionals from Twinkle Clean) after builders cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and more? If they do, this may mean that they have a definite set of skills which enable them to handle any cleaning project with ease.

  1. How focused are they on the satisfaction of their customers?

If the cleaning service is transparent and open and willing to discuss various customer concerns, this is also a good indication of their commitment to their customers. So, the next factor you should look at is how focused they are on the satisfaction of their customers. Do they have excellent customer support? Is their team friendly and professional at the same time, and ready to answer any questions you may have? It’s crucial to have proper communication channels with the cleaning service you choose because this is when you will develop a good working relationship with them.

  1. Look at their treatment of workers and staff

Some cleaning services are notorious for their high turnover rate. This means that workers and staff leave often, which can affect the quality of service provided by the company. Workers and staff who are not happy and satisfied with their work may well end up providing a sub-standard service as well. But if the professional cleaning service has a low turnover rate, this is a good sign. It means they know how to take care of their staff; they know how to train their team in the proper way, and they know what their staff needs in terms of equipment and the necessary tools to do a good job.

If you found this post helpful, you can read more like this from We are Augustines on the blog, here.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

 

 

Investing in an Automated vs Live Business Answering Service

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Investing in an answering service is something that a lot of businesses are starting to do. The perks of installing an answering service outweigh any disadvantages that might come along with it (though there aren’t many cons). The real questions, though, is weather to use one that is automated or a live business answering service that utilizes a real person on the other end of the phone.

Automated Answering Services

As a customer, you’ve have probably dealt with an automated answering service many times in the past. Even when you call your voicemail, this is technically an automated program that allows you to follow certain steps to get to an end point. They work by using a cloud-based computer system to answer calls and redirect the caller to the appropriate representative.

Pros of an Automated Answering Service

The main perk of an automated service is the cost. Automated answering programs tend to be cheaper than hiring a real-life person to answer phone calls. However, always make sure you read ALL of the fine print before making the investment. It seems to be much cheaper on the service, until they slam you with hidden fees. For example, there could be a cap on the call volume each month and if you go over this, you’ll be sent a hefty bill.

Cons of an Automated Answering Service

Other than the hidden fees that often pop up, there are a few more disadvantages to an automated answering system. The first is that there is a higher chance of technological glitches. We all know that technology is not reliable 100% of the time, so there is always a chance that your answering service will go down with tech-related issues.

Another con is that there is no personal touch to an automated system. This has actually been proven to be a turn off to customers and potential customers. Data shows that more people are likely to hang up out of frustration when they don’t actually speak to a real human.

Live Answering Services

With a live answering service, your calls will be directed to a HUMAN, not a robot. There is a training period involved to get your representative up to speed on your company. You can opt for a live answering service that operates 24/7 and is always available to your customers.

Pros of a Live Answering Service

The most apparent benefit of a live answering service is that a REAL person will be available for you customers. If you choose a reputable agency, this person will be professional, well-trained, and extremely personable. With an automated system, customer service isn’t really possible. This is not the case with a live service.

As you can see, we skipped the cons category for a live service. That’s because there aren’t any! Other than the initial upfront cost, a live answering service is better in every way. In the end, a live service will cost about the same as installing an automated one. Most importantly, though, it does wonders for your business when you give your customers access to a pleasant human being rather than a cold robot.

 

Why Your Company Needs to Look Into Digital PR Firms Today

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There is a lot of misconception throughout the business world about digital PR firms. The main assumption is that digital PR is the same as traditional PR, but instead of focusing on traditional outlets like newspapers and radio, the focus is entirely online. In a way, this assumption is not incorrect, but a digital PR firm does SO MUCH MORE than just getting your name online.

You need to remember that an agency that specializes in public relations is different than an advertising agency. Rather than paid media for advertising your brand, digital PR focuses on free opportunities for media coverage. Here are a few ways a digital PR agency can get your name into the world.

They have strong relationships with industry leaders

If you find a PR firm that specializes in your specific business model, they will surely have some strong connections to your industry’s big wigs. Maybe you’ve been trying to get in touch with a potential business partner for months, to no avail. A digital PR firm can help make this happen by acting as the mediator between the two of you.

They fully understand search engine optimization

Search engine optimization is not really a thing in traditional PR, but in the digital world of public relations it is a driving force. If you have yet to invest time, effort, or money into SEO you are falling behind. Luckily, a PR firm can help you out since SEO is becoming a significant aspect of reaching to the public.

In fact, that is pretty much all that SEO is – getting your name out to your target audience. Just about everyone in the world uses Google or another search engine to find something they’re looking for. Digital PR firms understand the importance of Google and having your website rank high when your target audience performs a search.

They utilize social media platforms

Most digital PR firms offer social media marketing as one of their services. Just as SEO is an effective method to make your company name known, so is social media. Billions of people around the world use social media of some kind; your PR specialist uses tactics and tools to relate to them.

They know how to network

We’ve already talked about the many connections held by PR firms, but more importantly they have the resources and intelligence to network and make even more connections. These people are personable, but they are also persuasive. They can use their impressive networking skills to get in contact with a potential media sources and lock them in.

They help rebuild (or maintain) your reputation

If you want to relate to the public about your product or service, it will be difficult to do that if they have a negative perception of your brand. A digital PR firm will take measures to prevent negativity from happening, and even help eradicate any negativity that is already being spread through the public eye.

 

What Does Reputation Management Really Mean?

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A lot of people are throwing around the phrase “reputation management” these days. Maybe you’re somewhat familiar with the concept of rep management or online reputation repair, but do you actually know what it entails? How does one go about managing a reputation?

The Basics of Reputation Management

According to TechTarget, reputation management is “the practice of attempting to shape public perception of a person or organization by influencing online information about that entity.” The strategies used for rep management are similar to the ones used by public relations agencies with a few differences.

Reputation management focuses solely on your online presence as a company. The majority of PR firms are focusing on this as well with the changing times, but some are still using traditional outlets like magazines, magazines, and newspapers. Rep management has a focus on web-based resources like social media, email, and online Yelp/Google reviews.

The First Step of Reputation Management is Monitoring

When you invest in the services of a rep management professional, their first priority will be to monitor your current online presence. This can be done in several ways, but the focus will be on your social media business accounts. The pros will perform social media analytics to give you an in-depth analysis of your current reputation according to your target audience.

Countering Negative Perceptions with Content

If the initial snapshot of your brand name showed that there is some negative perception, measures will then be taken to correct it. This is commonly done through the creation of original content from a web content developer within the reputation management agency. This content will either talk directly about your business or mention it more indirectly throughout an article, but always in the most positive way possible.

Other Methods for Improving the Company Reputation

Creating content isn’t the only way to help repair or manage a rep. Rep management can include a number of different methods, including social media marketing and maintenance. If you have a social media presence, an expert will be assigned to counter any negative comments or feedback on these accounts.

They will also be responsible for making posts to keep your company relevant. They’ll respond to tweets and comments, post about upcoming promotions, or share relevant videos, photos, and content. You brand’s most important asset is its reputation, and social media can make or break it.

Choosing a Reputation Management Agency

The need for reputation management has increased exponentially within the past decade. This increase in demand means that there are numerous agencies to choose from that specialize in online reputation management. Having one of these agencies on your side is vital, but the choice can be difficult since there are so many to choose from.

To help with the decision-making process, try to schedule a consultation with a few rep management companies. This will give you a lot of insight on their experience, cost, and whether their goals align with your own. Ask questions during this consultation to get a feel for their overall reputation management game plan.

 

How to Succeed? Just Start.

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The internet is full of advice on how to succeed. After pouring over dozens of articles and books, I can simplify most advice down to one tip: just start.

But as any procrastinator knows, starting is like, the hardest part.

We’ll cover some success advice, and touch on some hacks to help you get started and achieve your dreams.

Meditate to Gain Focus and Relieve Anxiety

Feeling stuck? Try meditating for ten minutes.

Meditation is nothing new, but the practice is gaining fervor. There are tons of benefits. Meditation reduces anxiety and depression and helps people gain focus.

Best of all, anyone can start meditating with no resources, absolutely free.

To meditate, sit in a spot, and bring your attention to your breath. Watch your thoughts pass by, and let them go.

The idea is not to not think of anything, nor is it to focus on any one thing. Watch your thoughts go past. If your mental sky is empty, that’s a good thing. Sit and be at peace.

Read Something that Inspires You

What do all the most successful people have in common? They read voraciously. Bill Gates reads about 50 books per year. Warren Buffet is even more extreme. He reads between 500 to 1,000 pages PER DAY.

So are you feeling stuck? Read something in your field that inspires you or can spark a new idea.

Take Care of Your Health

What’s a good way to kill your motivation for the entire day? Sit down with a bowl of ice cream and watch an episode on Netflix.

This does no good for you because it sabotages your health. When you’re feeling down, this might be the first thing you want to do, but it’s definitely not the best.

Instead, make yourself a healthy meal, or go for a jog or do some yoga. Taking care of your health and fueling your body will give you more energy for the long haul.

Use Substances Strategically (Looking at You Coffee)

While we’re not advocating you pick up a drug habit, we do want you to pay attention to the way you already use drugs.

Even substances like nicotine and marijuana have medical and focus benefits. A new trend of stoned exercise has sprouted up in states with legal weed.

And new studies are showing actual health benefits to nicotine. Of course, this only applies once you take away the toxins in cigarettes. You can find more info here.

The idea is to pay attention to the way you use these substances. So if your energy is low, or your focus is lacking, go ahead and grab a cup of coffee or step out for a smoke break.

How to Succeed: Just Start

Procrastination isn’t a motivation issue, it’s a mood issue. When your mood is low, try any of the above tips to give yourself energy or a motivational boost. Want to know how to succeed? Learn how to just start.

Love this article? Check out more health articles here.

4 Tips for Implementing a New Order Management System

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The question about whether or not your ecommerce store needs an order management system is an easy one to answer: yes. Once you’ve established that you would indeed benefit from implementing an OMS into your current business model, the next question is “which OMS should I use?”

There are tons to choose from, so you need to establish your business goals and find an OMS that aligns with those. Once you’ve find the proper one for you, the work doesn’t stop there. Next, it’s time to actually implement the OMS throughout your business. This can be difficult, especially if you are stuck in the past and not stellar with technology.

We are here to help you along the way. Follow these 4 tips for successfully implementing a new order management system into your ecommerce business.

Understand Your Environment

The first step in adding an OMS is to take stock of your current business and figure out where it stands with current technology. What is your current system capable of? What are its limitations? Are the current systems and softwares able to handle integrating a new OMS as they are now?

The main goal here is to identify weak areas that need improvement; make those improvements before you try implementing the new OMS. These weak areas could hinder how the OMS functions, so it is a good idea to determine what those weak areas are ahead of time.

Have Realistic Expectations

You can’t expect everything to be hunky dory as soon as you have the OMS installed and ready to go. There could be hitches in its functionality at first as you and your employees get used to how it works. According to OrderDynamics Corp, “you need to clearly define specific objectives for your OMS implementation. This will help ensure that expectations are met across the organization.”

Establish Dedicated Team Members for the OMS Implementation

No matter if you’ve partnered with an outside OMS integration team or you’re internally managing the project, you need to establish early on who is in charge of the process. These team members will be responsible for every aspect of the OMS integration process.

A huge barrier will be managing the changes that occur from implementation, so there needs to be someone providing support. This person (or people) will give the necessary support and feedback on how to use the new system as effectively as possible.

There should be extensive testing involved

Once everything is installed, each aspect of the new system needs to undergo an extensive testing phase. Tests should be performed to measure the functionality of the new system with features of your old system. Before you entirely abandon the old system, you should being doing lots of tests.

The testing phase is the ideal time to get your employees familiar with the OMS and how it works. While the training and testing period is taking place, you’ll still be able to utilize your old system just in case things don’t go your way the first time around.

If you want to learn more about our blog, please click here.

How to Find Lands for Sale for Your Tiny House

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The concept of the tiny house is nothing new, but a lot of people still struggle to see the benefits of moving into a miniscule living space. Sure, minimalism is cool and all, but is it really possible to live in a space that is just 400 square feet? Absolutely it is, and tiny home owners everywhere have experienced an elevated quality of life by cutting down on space and unnecessary things and clutter.

The most challenging aspect of a tiny home isn’t the huge reduction of space, but it actually has to do with the buying/building process. The most difficult part is to find lands for sale that would serve as the ideal location for your new tiny home. Here are a few tips on how to do it so that you can make the most of your new living space.

Establish your goals for location, size, and price

Before you start the hunt for a plot of land to build your tiny house, you need to establish a few things. Where do you want to live? How much land are you hoping for? What’s your budget? These are the top 3 questions to be asked in any land or home purchase, and switching to a tiny home is no exception.

Building a tiny home can be done almost anywhere, as long as you follow the proper building and zoning codes, but that doesn’t mean every location fits within your budget. Property doesn’t come cheap, so finding an affordable plot of land will probably be your biggest challenge. You can use sites like LandWatch and Zillow to help you out.

Research the zoning laws of your potential building area

This is a huge consideration for building your tiny home. Before you get your heart too set on a location, you need to research the state and local zoning/building codes. If you’re completely unfamiliar with this, zoning codes are the area’s set of rules on how the land is allowed to be used. This refers to the type of building, the function, and its placement. Building codes on the other hand regulate that the building is made using safe practices.

Reach out to other tiny home owners

Being a tiny home owner is a completely different niche than just being an average homeowner. You have a certain personality or set of goals for moving into a tiny house, and the challenges that stand in your way to making those goals happen can quickly become frustrating. This is why you should reach out the tiny home network in your area.

Other people who have investing time, effort, and money into a tiny home know about the ropes to jump and the challenges to surpass. Utilize these people and get their honest opinions about how to build, where to build, materials to use, and every aspect involved. These people will be your greatest resource, so reach out to them on Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms.

Starting Out Right – 6 Things You Need to Know When Starting a Business

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Starting a business is as scary as it is exciting. It’s much like trying to drive through dense fog – you have no idea what’s ahead of you until you come upon it. The good news is, the longer you survive owning a business of your own, the better skilled you become at navigating the fog.

In the information that follows, we discuss some of the most important things you need to know when starting a business. Read through them, take them to heart, and we promise the results will make you glad you did.

1. Don’t Make the Mistake of Thinking You Don’t Need Business IT Support.

Many newbie business owners think of business IT support as a luxury rather than a necessity. Making this mistake could cost you dearly in time and money.

While IT support may seem like an expense you can’t afford in the beginning, you’ll soon realize how much you need it when the first server crashes or your email goes offline. As the owner of a new business, you’ve got a lot on your plate already. Leave the IT stuff to the pros so you can focus on running your business.

2. Don’t Give in to the Statistics

You’ve probably already heard that 95 percent of all new businesses fail in their first year. Don’t let this crazy-high number get to you. If it’s accurate at all it’s because many people throw in the towel without giving it any real effort. They don’t follow through and they make poor business decisions. Don’t use this statistic as a cop out to make you feel better about giving up.

3. Make a Business Out of Something You Enjoy

There’s a lot to be said for loving what you do because if you’re successful at it, you’ll be doing it for many years to come. Make sure the business you start is something you enjoy so you won’t mind doing it five, ten, or even fifty years from now.

4. Don’t Get Discouraged when You Discover You Don’t Know Everything

Even if you’re an expert at what you do, running a business changes the rules of the game completely. Don’t get discouraged when you find out you don’t really know what you’re doing. Do it anyway and figure things out as you go. Look for a mentor who’s “been there and done that” and who is willing to pass on their sage advice.

Remember, “it takes a village” applies to more than just raising children. You may start a business on your own, but it’s the team of employees, clients, partners and other important people that make your business a success.

5. Finish What You Start

If you’re a good business owner, you’re probably not at a loss for innovative ideas. However, this doesn’t mean you should pursue all of them. It’s likely that many of your brilliant ideas will make you money, but not if you try to pursue them all haphazardly. Pick just one and stick with it until it fails or earns you so much money you can retire early.

6. Choose Partners Wisely

Any people you partner with should make your business stronger. Choosing a partner because it’s convenient will only serve to drive you insane and make you hate your work. Choose partners who have the same goals as you.

While it’s true that starting a business is exciting, it’s also a scary proposition. The road to success is pitted with potholes which is why we designed the above tips to help you avoid them along the way.

To read more on topics like this, check out the business category.

Sneaker Culture & The Music Industry

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From Nelly’s Airforce Ones to Mack 10’s Chucks, sneakers have long since taken over the music industry. The realization has many asking when the shift from athletes to musicians for selling sneakers occurred. Even Adidas tennis shoes, which used to be a popular brand for athletes, is now more popular than ever among musicians.

When the Shift Occurred

According to an August 2018 article by Forbes, the shift began in 2003. This is when Reebok signed its first deal with a musician, rapper Jay-Z. Just three years later, Kanye West created his first sneaker with Nike. Britney Spears may not have a deal with them, but she has long been a fan of Puma classic shoes.

The Argument

Not everybody agrees that sneaker culture in the music industry is relevant (they’re wrong, though). Complex magazine released a piece in 2015 that argued that athletes are more valuable to sneaker companies. Sales say just the opposite, though. The industry, which is already worth more than $1 billion, rappers’ lines are much more popular (and therefore, valuable) than athletes’ lines. In fact, Kanye West’s lines sell nearly 71% more than Steph Curry’s line.

The Future

Experts believe that the music industry will continue to have a strong influence on the popularity of certain sneaker brands. There are several reasons for this. First, musicians tend to have more social media followers than athletes. Additionally, signature shoes for athletes are based more on performance while musicians can focus on style aesthetics, which means a more flexible design. The evidence? Just check out Rihanna’s Fenty Puma line. The designs skip the basic sneaker style in favor of creepers, platform soles, and even boots based on sneaker designs.

What’s your take on sneaker culture and the music industry? Whether you love Adidas tennis shoes styled by athletes or Pumas styled by music’s own Rihanna, one thing is for sure: it’s time to shop for a new pair!

Important Facts That You Need to Know About CBD

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For the past few years, the health and wellness industry has offered many individuals a natural solution to pain, stress, anxiety, depression and other types of conditions. Most people are dependent on taking synthetic drugs as a form of remedy that can have adverse effects after long term use. When CBD vape liquid was introduced commercially it became an exciting product that made a lot of people curious about its impact on the human body. CBD is a non-addictive component derived from the marijuana plant that is known to promote fantastic health benefits. If you are interested in trying out CBD based products here are some essential facts that can help you decide whether it is a good fit for you or not.

What is CBD?

CBD products became extremely popular especially when many countries have started to take an interest in CBD or medical marijuana. Many people are now using CBD because of its ability to relieve chronic pain and other kinds of health condition. The leaves of the marijuana plant are processed, and they derive the CBD component which does not contain any psychoactive ingredient that makes you high, thus it comes with a handful of health benefits. Currently, many countries have approved the use of CBD as a natural health supplement

What are the physiological effects of using CBD?

CBD is not just another ordinary nutritional supplement that we can find in local drugstores. Much scientific research has been made to back up the beautiful results that CBD can bring into our lives. In a nutshell, the primary purpose of CBD is to strike a balance in our physiology. The right balance also means that your body is in an excellent state of health.

What are the benefits of using CBD products?

CBD, in general, comes with numerous impressive health benefits. Studies are proving that CBD is excellent for the following conditions:

  • Anxiety and stress
  • Depression and mood disorders
  • Increases focus and mental alertness
  • Allergies and skin inflammation including eczema and psoriasis
  • Pain management for patients with fibromyalgia and all forms of arthritis
  • Helps cure insomnia

How does CBD work in the body?

Many people are not aware that the human body is capable of producing its cannabinoids known as endocannabinoids that come with cannabinoid receptors. Researchers think that CBD helps the body utilise its very own endocannabinoids to help cure several health issues.

How to choose an ideal CBD based product for you

CBD products are now available in different forms. CBD shops usually sell a wide array of products which include the following.

  • Capsules and chewable gummies
  • Topical ointment, balms, and creams
  • Sublingual and vape oils
  • Beauty products like soap and shampoo
  • Edible food products like candies and cookies

If you are a first-time user of these products just be reminded that CBD content can vary in terms of strength. Make sure to talk to your doctor and other experts who can give you sound advice before deciding to take the product.

CBD based products are safe and have rare side effects. If you feel that you have multiple health issues that need to be addressed, then you might want to give CBD a try.

To read more on topics like this, check out the health category.