Ever witnessed a co-worker being harassed on the job? What would you do in that situation? Did you know that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects workers at companies with 15 or more employees from sexual harassment that creates a hostile work environment? Read more from Rob Walker, for the New York Times, aka, The Workologist who shares his insight and the facts about questionable work situations.
Tag: New York Times
The New Pension Plan
With such a variety of retirement plans, many current workers will not have an actual pension. Ann Carrns, for the New York Times suggests a variety of ways to make your savings work for you in her article, No Pension? You Can ‘Pensionize’ Your Savings.
Her top recommendations include working longer, delaying Social Security payments, and, creating a budget for the amounts that you are required to withdraw from your retirement accounts.
Portfolio Planning
Wondering about Bitcoin? Consider first if it fits within your investment portfolio. Carl Richards for the New York Times reminds us that investing is very different than speculating. Our decisions should be based on the process and not the outcome, which no one can actually predict. Plan your goals and focus on diversification and then decide if Bitcoin or any other investment opportunity is right for you.
Spend More Make Less?
The IRS outsourced tax collection in an effort to “put a dent in the $138 billion that taxpayers owe the government.” This action cost the agency $20 million and netted a little over six million in past due monies. Combined with contractor payments and relatively low collection rates, other cost factors included the streamlined approval of “tax-exempt organizations” as well as lack of funding for better direct (IRS) communication with tax payers.
I.R.S. Paid $20 Million to Collect $6.7 Million in Tax Debts
Team Building 101
After interviewing over 500 business leaders, managing director of Merryck & Co and author, Adam Bryant compiled this detailed list of the best practices for creating and maintaining a strong and productive team. Start with a plan, set the rules of the road and work to foster a culture of communication and respect that goes both ways.
How to Build a Successful Team
Word of Mouth
We often see social media rants about products, but do they actually represent how we feel about the brands or are they really just a way to blow off steam? Janet Morrissey for the New York Times explores this question in her article, Brands Heed Social Media. They’re Advised Not to Forget Word of Mouth and reminds companies what studies show. Even when we put things out for the world to see, the words from our mouths the next day may be a very different story.
Tax Confusion?
What will the new tax bills mean for you? At the moment it’s not quite clear. Accountants and tax advisors everywhere are watching with bated breath as we approach the current tax season where these new laws will take affect. The best advice in the article? Schedule your tax professional appointment early this year.
Confused by the Tax Bills? Be Glad You’re Not an Accountant
When I Grow Up…
Have you ever reached a crossroads and wondered what you should be doing with your life? Tim Herrera for the New York Times offers these five tips to help you along the path.
–Start by looking backward
–Decide what ‘meaningful’ means to you
–Build a personal “board of directors,” a financial cushion, and take time to reflect
–Find a sponsor, not just a mentor
–Collect experience and be generous
In the article, 5 Tips to Help You Figure Out What to Do With Your Life, Tim delves deeper into each of these categories, defining the roles of a sponsor verses mentor and gives insight into ways to construct your own group of trusted confidants. A recommended read for anyone currently pondering their future.
More Women In Tech
Companies often say they desire a more diverse workplace without really understanding how to achieve this goal. Katherine Zaleski, in Opinions for the New York Times highlights the fact that small changes in the interview process can make a huge difference. From making sure the panel includes one woman, to perks that are mentioned, such as maternal leave and child care subsidy.
The Maddeningly Simple Way Tech Companies Can Employ More Women
Money Managers In Your Best Interest
Are you in the market for a financial planner? Turns out that there are numerous kinds to choose from and even with current laws stating that they must do what is in your best interest, that’s not always what happens. Before you sign on the line, read this detailed article from the New York Times. Before You Pay for Financial Advice, Read This Guide. It offers links to further information and even a fiduciary pledge.