IBO Updates

Fred Harteis News Articles - Four Co-Workers You Should Buddy Up To

Fred Harteis News Articles - Bad co-workers get all the press. Brash bullies, sneaky saboteurs and prickly prima donnas have been the subject of more than a few career-related books, advice columns and even television shows such as 'The Office. ' But the attention that rumormongers, know-it-alls and killjoys receive doesn't mean there aren't professionals in your workplace who are worth getting to know. Following are four types of office good guys who can help you advance your career or simply make your workday a little easier.

The Gatekeeper.

An organization's most influential individuals are not always the highest-ranking -- or highest-profile -- employees. While some of your less savvy co-workers might focus all their energy on flattering the higher-ups, the company's executive or administrative assistants are often the ones who actually run much of the show, albeit behind the scenes. Administrative professionals hold key information about the bosses' priorities, schedules and moods. Having established a rapport with the these less-heralded power players might come in handy when you're in a pinch and need to quickly squeeze in some face time with a manager. They also can provide invaluable insight into when -- and when not -- to approach the boss.

The Grapevine Monitor.

Unlike the dirt-dishing gossip, who delights in spreading "juicy" tales of trivial interoffice melodrama, the grapevine monitor is acutely aware of the office's relevant developments and political undercurrents. The grapevine monitor remains current on organizational issues by doing more listening than talking at the watercooler. Developing an ally in the information loop, who can filter the meaningful business-related information from the nonsense, can be valuable in times of transition. For instance, the grapevine monitor may know of upcoming projects, budget cuts or resource restrictions before the information is distributed through official channels. Put simply, when significant changes are afoot, it never hurts to have a trustworthy friend with an ear to the ground.

The Well-Connected Social Butterfly.

There is typically at least one individual in every company who seems to know -- and get along with -- everyone else. Acquaint yourself with this person. The well-connected social butterfly is a consummate team builder who never forgets a face, name or detail. Aligning yourself with the social butterfly is particularly helpful if you are shy or new to an organization. These expert communicators and collaborators can ease your adjustment and help you branch out by introducing you to staff members from other areas of the company. In addition, watching how the well-connected social butterfly operates (how the person starts conversations, interacts with others and puts people at ease) can help you enhance your interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with others.

The Coolheaded Veteran.

The coolheaded veteran is not identified by age but by experience and temperament. In times of high pressure and tight deadlines, this steady professional weathers the storm with efficiency and poise. Sage, calm and resourceful, the veteran has encountered difficult times in the past and is willing to share his or her survival tips on performing with grace under fire. Whether you seek the cool-headed veteran's counsel as issues arise or he or she becomes a close mentor, this unflappable and wise worker is worth observing and emulating.

Knowing which relationships to leverage in the workplace is as important as understanding which people to watch out for. So identify the heroes in your workplace and consider inviting one of them to lunch -- it's never too early or too late to start building these valuable contacts.

Source: Aol.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Fred Harteis News Articles - Bad credit? Insurers will make you pay

Fred Harteis News Articles - By now you know that you need to keep tabs on your credit history to make a good impression on lenders, landlords and employers. But did you know that your home and auto insurers are also looking?

In most states they're allowed to use your credit information to formulate premiums - and in June the Supreme Court decided that your carrier doesn't need to tell you if your credit has caused you to pay more.

In concurrent cases against Geico and Safeco, the Justices unanimously agreed that the companies were not wrong in charging certain poor-credit customers more without notifying them.

The impact of the decision: "You are not going to know if your credit score is costing you," says Harvey Rosenfield, founder of the Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights.

How insurance premiums are determined is a recipe long kept secret from consumers. Some 90 percent of home and auto carriers use a score based on credit data as part of that recipe, according to risk-assessment firm Fair Isaac, known for its FICO credit score.

Some insurers buy this so-called credit-based insurance score from Fair Isaac or ChoicePoint, another data provider, or devise their own. One insurer may weigh the score heavily, another not so much.

Industry folks say they're simply using all relevant data. "Studies show that how people manage credit is a good predictor of insurance risk," says Claire Wilkinson of the Insurance Information Institute; in other words, insurers think that if you don't pay your bills, you're likely to file a lot of claims.

Whether that's true or not, your carrier will be peeking at your credit history. So you want to make sure it sees you in the best light.

Source: Cnn.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Fred Harteis News Articles – 'Business Casual' Causes Confusion

Fred Harteis News Articles - Business casual has become a staple of the office, but more companies are trying to enforce rules that set at least a minimum standard of dress, and an increasing number also are enforcing more formal attire -- especially at meetings or on days when clients may visit the office. And as summer heats up and fashion trends become even more laid back, employers are wrestling with how to adopt dress-code policies that encourage both productivity and professionalism.

There is little question that business casual, largely popularized by the dot-com craze, has permeated the workplace, with six in 10 employers allowing a dress-down day at least once a week, according to a 2006 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management.

But a backlash is brewing: The number of employers allowing casual dress days every day has plunged from 53 percent in 2002 to a new low of 38 percent.

The reason for the return to more dressed-up attire is, in part, because of the confusion generated by business casual standards. Should flip-flops be allowed? What about tennis shoes, jeans and shorts? Sleeveless dresses? T-shirts? Younger employees are more likely to push the envelope, rankling more veteran generations who have long worked in offices where ties and skirts were expected no matter the day of the week. Many employers resent becoming fashion police.

"It started with casual Fridays and got out of hand," says June Webb, a fashion consultant. "Now companies are starting to clamp down a little bit. They've found women have a tendency to show off too much skin, and men tend to show up in clothes that are wrinkled and not ironed."

Despite the push toward a more dressed-up workplace, employer policies still run the gamut. Some are gussying up. Consider marketing firm McGrath/Power. Because they're based in the heart of nice weather, they used to allow shorts, T-shirts and baseball caps. But now they require a more businesslike attire, with business casual including slacks and skirts. Still, there have been situations where employees have been asked to take off a baseball cap, leave on a sweater or not wear something again. With the third warning, employees are sent home to change.

When it comes to dress policies, there are legal issues, too. Employers who enforce dress codes on women but not men risk sexual discrimination claims, and companies also can get in trouble for taking some steps, such as banning styles that are worn as part of religious beliefs.

Greater leeway is also creating increasing havoc for job interviewees, who are finding the traditional suit may make them seem too stodgy in a more laid-back workplace atmosphere.

How employees look can affect how they're perceived: Thirty-six percent of respondents said those who dress casually are perceived as more creative, yet 49% said they run the risk of being taken less seriously, according to a 2006 survey by online job service TheLadders.com. The survey was conducted in August 2006 and included 2,243 executives.

Source: Aol.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Fred Harteis News Articles - Retire a Millionaire

Fred Harteis News Articles  - The road to $1 million starts early, but if you're a late bloomer, help is at hand. The information below shows how much you need to save each month to accumulate $500,000, $1 million or $2 million by age 65, along with strategies for achieving that goal. At age 25, you're starting from scratch. At ages 35, 45 and 55, we assume you already have money in savings, on which you're earning 8 percent annually.

Here are some tips from various age brackets that could lend a hand:

Your 25:

You've saved: $0

To reach $500,000, what you need to save per month: $143

To reach $1 million, what you need to save per month: $286

To reach $2 million, what you need to save per month: $573

Get help from Uncle Sam:

You may qualify for a retirement-savings tax credit of 10% to 50% of the amount you contribute to an IRA, 401(k) or other retirement account. The credit can reduce your tax bill by up to $1,000. To qualify, your income must be $25,000 or less if you're single, $37,500 or less if you're a head of household or $50,000 or less if you're married.

Your 35:

You've saved: $0

To reach $500,000, what you need to save per month: $335

To reach $1 million, what you need to save per month: $671

To reach $2 million, what you need to save per month: $1,342

Get help from Your Boss:

If your employer offers a matching contribution, contribute at least enough to your 401(k) to capture the full match. Otherwise, you're walking away from free money. Try to save 15% of your gross income for retirement, including your employer match.

Your 45:

You've saved: $0

To reach $500,000, what you need to save per month: $849

To reach $1 million, what you need to save per month: $1,698

To reach $2 million, what you need to save per month: $3,395

Play Catch-Up: Aim to contribute the maximum $15,500 to your 401(k) this year or $4,000 to your traditional or Roth IRA. Once you turn 50, you can contribute an additional $5,000 in catch-up contributions to your 401(k) and an extra $1,000 to your IRA.

Source: Kiplinger.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Embrace Things That Work, Suggests Harteis

”The world would be a better place if everyone would embrace the teachings of Dale Carnegie.” – Fred Harteis  

Harteis notes, The second book I read by Dale was “How to Win Friends and Influence People”, and I read and studied it during my high school days.  The benefits have been astounding. “

Fred Harteis reports experiencing a real and measureable benefit from studying Carnegie’s lessons and principles. 

”Harteis explains, “ While in college I was elected class president three times only because of the principles followed in Dale Carnegies Books.  I was a shy farm boy, but gained great confidence in public relations skills and people skills from being a student of the common sense wisdom of Dale. Business success is 87% people skill and 13% business skill.”    I firmly believe that the early exposure to Dale Carnegie’s writings has given me a high advantage.  His principles are needed today every bit as much as when they were first written, adds Fred.

Fred Harteis & Linda Harteis

Fred Harteis owns Harteis International, and North American business technology firm, Biznet Productions. A background in construction and agri-business laid Harteis’ business foundation.  Under Fred’s leadership and vision, Harteis businesses have grown exponentially. 

Harteis International is a family company.  Harteis' children, Tonya, Fred and Annie, support world-wide operations.

Fred Harteis is the former President of the International Business Owners Association International (IBOAI). 

© 2007 FRED HARTEIS LINDA HARTEIS permission to Iboupdates blog.

Fred Harteis News Articles - Which Jobs Pay $30 an Hour?

Fred Harteis News Articles  - If the average person works 40 hours a week and 50 weeks per year, that's 2,000 hours per year. At $30 per hour, you'd be making $60,000 before taxes. Here are some of the most searched on jobs on Salary.com in that salary range.

Account Executive

Median Salary: $30.04

Job Description: Develops and maintains favorable relationships with new and existing clients in order to increase revenue. Ensures that organizational goods or services consistently meet client needs. May be responsible for sustaining and renewing client contracts.

Occupational Therapist

Median Salary: $30.15

Job Description: Plans and conducts individualized occupational therapy programs to help patients develop, regain, or maintain their ability to perform daily activities. Teaches patients skills/techniques and how to use adaptive equipment for participating in activities.

Charge Nurse

Median Salary: $30.60

Job Description: Plans, directs, and evaluates the overall nursing care and functions in a particular nursing unit or during an assigned shift. Coordinates the activities of the unit and directs, organizes, and assigns work to the nursing staff. Assesses, monitors, and educates the nursing staff on patient care.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Median Salary: $30.44

Job Description: Prepares, measures, and administers radiopharmaceuticals in diagnostic and therapeutic studies, utilizing a variety of equipment and following prescribed procedures. Follows radiation safety techniques when disposing radioactive materials.

Commercial Loan Officer

Median Salary: $30.15

Job Description: Responsible for soliciting and servicing a variety of commercial loans. Interviews applicants and recommends approval of customer applications for commercial loans. Analyzes applicant financial status and credit to determine feasibility of granting loan.

Head Coach (Major Sport) - Higher Ed.

Median Salary: $30.01

Job Description: Oversees the activities of an athletic team for a major sport. Plans and directs training of student athletes, and assesses individuals' abilities and skill level to determine appropriate team position. Assists players in reaching highest athletic potential possible through athletic training and leadership skills

Staff Nurse - RN - Recovery Room

Median Salary: $30.15

Job Description: Evaluates, plans, implements, and documents nursing care for post-operative patient population. Assesses patient for pain and maintains hemodynamic stability, neurological stability, and pain management. Requires an associate's degree and certification as a registered nurse.

Accounts Payable Supervisor

Median Salary: $30.99

Job Description: Supervises activities in the accounts payable function. Ensures timely payments of vendor invoices and expense vouchers and maintains accurate records and control reports. Responsible for preparing accounts payable register and related reports.

Web Customer Support Specialist

Median Salary: $30.16

Job Description: Supports Web-based products and services through email support, desktop support, and telephone support. Interacts with customers and troubleshoots problems to provide a high level of customer satisfaction.

Source: Aol.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Fred Harteis News Articles - Taking the pain out of your commute

Fred Harteis News Articles - Who really enjoys commuting? With record high gas prices, impatient drivers and clogged highways it can be a daunting task just getting to work.

The average commute time nationwide is 25 minutes. Here's a look at some tools that can make your morning ride just a little bit easier.

1: Get your incentives

More and more employers are compensating employees who car pool or take mass transit to work. Some companies are giving away preferred or reduced cost parking spaces or hosting reward programs like raffle drawings for those workers that car pool. Other companies provide an emergency ride home for employees who car pool but have to return home unexpectedly.

Car poolers can also take advantage of high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes on the highway. An HOV lane typically requires at least two occupants in a car and can cut down on travel time by 15 to 30 minutes each way. Even some toll routes and bridges are giving discounts to car poolers.

2: Join a car pool

Most of us don't relish car pooling to work, but it can be a good way to cut your commuting costs. Tap your company resources first. Contact your human relations department and see if it has any car pooling links or information. You can also ask your company if there are any van pools available in your area, or if it has a relationship with any local transportation agencies.

3: Understand the etiquette

You'll definitely want to set up some ground rules before you start your car pool. Establish reimbursement costs in advance if there's only one driver. That means you should agree on a fare based on gas, maintenance and parking.

You will also want to set up a pick-up schedule and location. Make sure you outline how long to wait for those who may be late, and remember - you shouldn't take car poolers on errands. Keep your car well maintained, gassed up and keep the perfume or cologne to a minimum.

Source: Cnn.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures. Brett Deimler leads Deimler International.

Fred Harteis News Articles - Your Six Biggest Cubicle Complaints ... Solved

Fred Harteis News Articles - Incessant phone-ringing, constant keyboard clacking, neighbors chatting: these are but a few of the annoyances cubicle dwellers must deal with on a daily basis. While working in an open-plan environment has its perks -- easy interaction with teammates and increased camaraderie, to name just two -- it can be challenging when colleagues don't heed proper workplace etiquette.

The tricky thing about cubicle courtesy is that those who offend their co-workers may not even realize it. And it can be awkward to voice your grievances, especially if a longtime colleague is the one driving you mad. Following are some common cubicle complaints you may have and tips for tackling them:

Complaint: "Things keep disappearing off my desk."

What not to do: If you see your stapler is missing, quickly swipe someone else's to replace it.

What to do: It's hard to monitor your belongings when you're away from your workspace, but you can help crack the problem when you are there. The next time someone reaches over your cubicle wall to "borrow" a sticky note or stapler, politely direct the person to the supply room. If the issue persists or goes beyond company-supplied items, you may want to talk to your manager. In the meantime, reduce the temptation for others to swipe your stuff by placing anything of value, like a favorite book or MP3 player, in a bag or purse that you take home with you each evening.

Complaint: "I can't concentrate with the constant buzz around me."

What not to do: Stand up and shout "Zip it!" at the top of your lungs.

What to do: If you're situated in a high-traffic locale, consider bringing headphones to eliminate the sound. When you really cannot tolerate the noise, retreat to a quieter place, like an empty conference room. You may also consider speaking to your supervisor about relocating to a quieter area of the building if your productivity continues to suffer.

Complaint: "I respect my co-worker's obsession with Il Divo ... unfortunately, I'm not a fan."

What not to do: Borrow your sister's Britney Spears CD, blast 'You Drive Me Crazy' on repeat and hope your neighbor will get the message.

What to do: If you and your neighbor don't share the same taste in music, even the slightest notes can strike an unpleasant chord. And competing in a sound war will only fuel the fire. The situation may be resolved with a simple request to your co-worker to use headphones. If he or she doesn't capitulate, perhaps you can agree upon certain times -- such as the late afternoon, when things have slowed down -- when the person can play his or her favorite music, at a reasonable volume, of course.

Complaint: "My workspace has become the office water cooler."

What not to do: Join every conversation or feed the office rumor mill by relaying confidential information your co-workers disclose to you.

What to do: Make it clear that you're not interested in participating in the conversation. For example, don headphones or let colleagues know you're on deadline for a project and would appreciate it if they would take their conversation elsewhere.

Complaint: "My cubicle-mate has brought 'tuna surprise' for lunch -- again!"

What not to do: Wear strong cologne or perfume to the office hoping your "good scents" will counteract the unfortunate odors emanating from your colleague's workspace.

What to do: While you can't tell others what they can and cannot eat or what fragrances to wear, you can try to promote a more scent-friendly atmosphere by setting a good example yourself. Have consideration for co-workers when you choose your lunchtime meal and try to pick less-odiferous foods. If you must heat up a pungent meal, consider eating it outside. Also, don't wear cologne, perfume or lotion that is especially strong.

Complaint: "Those 'Baywatch' posters and troll dolls have to go!"

What not to do: Deface office decorations with a marker (think moustaches and eyeglasses).

What to do: While it's OK -- and even recommended by some employers -- to personalize one's cubicle with artwork and photographs to enliven the workspace, it's not OK to go overboard. If a co-worker displays an item that you find distracting, let the person know -- he or she may take it down after hearing of the distress it's causing you. If images are offensive, approach your manager or a human resources representative with the problem.

While bringing co-workers' bad habits to their attention can be awkward, it's often better to speak up rather than let the disturbance persist. A friendly and direct request may be all it takes to resolve the issue. Likewise, if someone comes to you with a complaint, be respectful and do your best to accommodate their requests. While some minor annoyances are par for the course when working in a cubicle, if you respect others' time and space, they'll hopefully do the same for you.

Source: Aol.com

About Fred Harteis: Fred Harteis leads Harteis International. Fred Harteis has a background in agriculture and has created many successful business ventures.

Harteis News Articles – Favorite Writers

Fred Harteis News Articles- Mark Twain is one of my favorite writers. He was a risk taker and truly loved life. His mind saw way beyond his time.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Mark Twain

Samuel Langhorne Clemens (November 30, 1835 — April 21, 1910), better known by the pen name Mark Twain, was an humorist, satirist, writer, and lecturer. Twain is most noted for his novels Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

Fred Harteis and Linda Harteis are members of IBOAI

IBOAI, the official trade business association of independent business owners, Quixtar IBO’s. It’s mission is to serve and protects the business interests of independent business owners powered by Quixtar; the leadership team includes Jim Janz,  Don Wilson, Billy Florence, Jody Victor.

Billy Florence leads Team DCI. Billy Florence owns Equad News. Fred Harteis owns Harties International and is the former president of the IBO trade association.

Key words: Fred Harties,   Billy Florence, Don Wilson

© 2007 FRED HARTEIS Amway Quixtar permission to Fred Harteis web blog 

Fred Harteis News Articles - Security or …. Taking Risks

Fred Harteis News Articles – Without taking risks in life, you are not living up to your full potential. You will always wonder “What if….”. “Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” Helen Keller

Fred Harteis and Linda Harteis are members of IBOAI

IBOAI, the official trade business association of independent business owners, Quixtar IBO’s. It’s mission is to serve and protects the business interests of independent business owners powered by Quixtar; the leadership team includes Jim Janz, Don Wilson, Billy Florence, Jody Victor. Billy Florence leads Team DCI. Billy Florence owns Equad News. Fred Harteis owns Harties International and is the former president of the IBO trade association. . Key words: Fred Harties, Billy Florence, Don Wilson

© 2007 FRED HARTEIS Amway Quixtar permission to Fred Harteis web blog