NH Forge

NH Forge

Gregory

Don’t Give Up on Your Marriage Until You Try Couples Counseling

by

It’s not easy being in a marriage. Even if you got married for the right reason, you could still end up feeling terrible. At some point, you will discover each other’s negative qualities. You might even regret marrying the wrong person.

selective focus photography of couple hugging

When you’re no longer happy with each other, getting a divorce is always an option. Before you take that path, you might want to try couples counseling first. There’s still a chance to salvage the relationship. Don’t give up right away or else you’ll be throwing away everything that you built together.

A bump in the road

You might feel bad about your partner now, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that love is no longer present. It’s still possible for you to love each other, but the situation you face makes it even more daunting. If you can go to a counseling session, you will eventually get through the difficult time and be stronger.

Clarify the problem

Another reason why you seem to hate each other is that you tend to ignore the issues. You sweep issues under the rug and hope that everything will change. In a counseling session, you have no choice but to bring everything out. You can’t allow yourself to hide your feelings. When you can finally express how you feel, you might find it easier to move forward.

Understand the consequences 

Getting a divorce means that you need to go through a lengthy legal process. You also have to consider your children who could be in the middle of the struggle. The counseling session will make you understand these consequences. You don’t have to change your mind, but you can at least prepare yourself for what’s going to happen next.

Separate on good terms

Divorce can be messy in most instances, but it doesn’t have to be. You can settle things peacefully, and counseling can help you. When you go through this process, you will realize that there’s no point in having a messy divorce. You might be unable to salvage your relationship, but you can still end up on good terms.

Prepare yourself for a different life

Couples therapy is there to allow you to reconcile with your partner. It doesn’t have to end with you staying married. If you should go your separate ways, you have to accept it. You can’t force yourself to stay together when you’re no longer happy.

However, you also need to start preparing yourself for the dark days ahead. It might be sad being in an unhappy relationship, but it could also be the same when you’re alone. Imagine being married for a decade or so, and you suddenly have to live alone. The counseling session will help you cope with what you will face as you move forward in life.

You have an idea about what’s best for you, and you need to try everything first before deciding to end your marriage. Check out Counseling Oak Park if you need help now.

 

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

 

Lamb & Feta Skewers With A Hint Of Spice: A Greek Recipe

by

As you know, we like to bring you mouthwatering recipes from around the world every now and then on this page. Today we’re turning our attention to Greece – which is a country which perhaps isn’t as well-represented when it comes to restaurants as it should be. Yes, there are many Greek restaurants out there, but not In anything like the same numbers as Italian, Chinese, Thai or Japanese restaurants. That’s a shame – especially if there isn’t a Greek restaurant in your area. Not to worry though – we’ve got all the information you need to make a great-tasting Greek dish of your own at home!

When you look at Greece, there are primarily three things that it’s known for. In no particular order, they are:-

  1. History. Greece is one of the most historically important ancient nations in the whole world. As well as once having an empire, we owe Greece for the invention of many things the world now takes for granted. Where would the world of sport be if it weren’t for the Olympics – which were invented in Greece? The ancient Olympic Games started in Athens in the year 776 BC. When the modern Olympics began, they also started in Greece, this time in 1896. If sport’s not your thing, how about the concept of democracy – the system of government that most civilized countries rely upon? That, too, was invented in Greece over two and a half thousand years ago. If you ever find yourself getting angry at modern politicians, remember to blame the Greeks for putting them there!
  2. Myth and Legend. From the serpent-headed Medusa, who could turn you to stone with a simple stare, to the winged Icarus who fell into the sea while flying too close to the sun, Greek myths and legends are full of fascinating, colorful characters. Although the tales are thousands of years old, they’ve been brought alive and told once more many times, and they’re still relevant today. Hercules was last on our movie screens in 2014, for example, and mobile slots websites are full of slots casino which take their inspiration from Greek legends. There are some obvious choices, such as the ‘Zeus: God of Thunder’ mobile slots game which is based on the most famous Greek god of them all, but other characters are also represented. ‘Magic of Pandora’ is a mobile slots game based on the woman who, according to myth, brought sin into the world. ‘Medusa Megaways’ is all about that petrifying Gorgon. They’re at mobile slots websites, they’re in the cinema, they’re on TV – they’re everywhere!
  3. Food. That’s why we’re here today, and that’s perhaps what Greece is most famous for now (other than its beautiful beaches and vacation destinations). When we think of Greek food, we think of lamb, and yogurt, and feta cheese. We think of olives, and pasta, and fish. We also think of wine – but that might just be us. Whether you want to choose a bottle of wine to go with the meal we’re about to show you is entirely up to you! Today’s recipe is all about lamb and feta, brought to life with a spicy kick and then skewered for convenience. Here’s how you go about making it.

What You’re Going To Need

Making this recipe will take you 25 minutes from start to finish, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for something quick and tasty! The ingredients are:-

500 grams of minced lamb;

300 grams of basmati rice (brown);

300 grams of cherry tomatoes (cut in half);

50 grams of feta cheese;

85 grams of black olives (quartered) ;

12 wooden skewers;

1 red onion (large, and half-sliced, half-grated);

1 cucumber (diced);

1 large cup of parsley (chopped);

1 large cup of mind (chopped);

1 lemon (juiced);

1 tablespoon of olive oil, and

1 tablespoon of harissa.

How To Make It

This may seem like quite a lengthy list of ingredients, but it’s easy to make once you’ve assembled everything you need. There are only three steps, and if you follow them to the letter, you can’t go wrong.

  1. Immerse all of the wooden skewers in a bowl of water, and leave them there for thirty minutes. While they’re soaking, consult the cooking instructions on the back of your packet of rice, and cook them using the recommended method. When it’s cooked, give it a quick rinse with cold water and then drain it thoroughly before setting it aside.
  2. Heat up your grill. While it’s heating up, put your lamb mince into a bowl, and mix it with the feta cheese, the grated half of the onion, the harissa, and any seasoning you wish to add. Make twelve sausage shapes from the mixture (you should have more than enough mixture to do this with), and thread the resultant sausages onto the skewers. Place them onto a banking tray (important note: this should be a non-stick baking tray!), and grill them for between six and eight minutes. Turn them regularly during the grilling process, and keep a close eye on them. When they’ve turned slightly brown, they’re ready.
  3. Mix all the ingredients you have left over with the brown rice, and again add further seasoning if you see fit. The rice and the rest of the ingredients are a bedding for your hot skewers to sit on. You’re now ready to serve. Fill some small bowls with the rice mixture, add the skewers on top, and either enjoy them yourself or impress your guests!

All the spice in this recipe comes from the harissa. If you or your guests have a liking for spice, you could increase the amount of harissa in the recipe to give things a little more kick and zing. Be very careful though – harissa is a very hot chili paste, and shouldn’t be trifled with. In practice, it’s better to be safe than sorry when putting it into food!

We hope you’ll find these lamb skewers as delicious as we did, and we’ll see you back here soon for another great recipe idea!

 

Stress Management: How to Breathe Life into a Tiny Apartment

by

When it comes to living in a small apartment, most homeowners tend to feel boxed in. It can get notably worse coming home from a challenging day at work, only to be greeted by an apartment that feels more like a jail cell than an open house. Stress management is not easy by any means, and it can be made worse by living conditions such as a small apartment.

Fortunately, you do not have to resign yourself to feeling stress every time you come home. There are ways to make a small apartment more inviting, which can go a long way toward reducing stress. After all, your house is supposed to be the place where you can let the stress melt away as you prepare yourself for the coming day. Here are just a few ways to breathe life into a tiny apartment.

Ensure that your apartment gets enough natural light

While most apartments tend to have windows in the right place, it does not mean that it will sufficiently light up your apartment. It is true that you can purchase lights, but what about the daytime? People tend to underestimate how depressing it can be to live in an apartment that is not sufficiently brightened by natural sources.

You can help alleviate the situation by purchasing mirrors and placing them in areas where they can best reflect the sun’s light during the day. It is a cheap solution that can provide a substantial impact.

The benefits of rounded, glass furniture

It can be challenging to make a tiny apartment feel more spacious, but it is not impossible. The best way to go about accomplishing it is by using rounded and glass furniture. One of the reasons why homeowners feel boxed in is all of the edges present in a tiny home. Making use of rounded furniture from diiiz.com can help make things feel less constrictive. On the other hand, making use of glass furniture will allow you to see more of your apartment – which in turn will help make things feel more spacious. While it might cost a pretty penny to replace furniture, the result might surprise you!

Breathing life in the form of life

Last but certainly not least, one of the best ways to make a small home feel more inviting is through the use of house plants. While house plants generally offer the same benefits no matter how large or small a home is, the latter tends to benefit from plants heavily. If you are not particularly confident about maintaining plants at home, you can go for fakes and still accomplish the same thing. That said, purchasing real plants has the added benefit of purifying the air around your home.

While living in a small apartment can feel depressing at times; it does not have to be a miserable experience. Following the tips above can help make your apartment much more inviting, which in turn will reduce your stressors.

 

Security Implications of Poor Code Signing Practices

by

Many modern businesses develop code in-house as part of the products and services for their customers. These applications can vary from simple web applications designed to allow the customer to easily manage their accounts with the organization via the Internet to desktop applications that represent a significant part of the company’s offerings to the customer.

Regardless of the type of software developed and used by the organization, application security is a significant concern. In many cases, the organization’s software is the primary way that the customer interacts with the organization. If there are functionality or security flaws in the application, it can negatively reflect on the company and may even be the cause of lost customers or sales.

The concept of code signing is nothing new and is extremely valuable to improving application security. However, many organizations have poor code signing practices, opening them up to attack by hackers trying to take advantage of their good name to hide their own efforts to spread malware. Understanding the risks associated with poor code signing practices and taking steps to improve them is an important aspect of good application security.

What is Code Signing?

Code signing is what makes it possible for users of an application to verify the creator. The developer creates a digital signature using a secret encryption key known only to them. They then provide a public encryption key that, along with the file itself, can be used to verify the signature. The assumption is that, since only the owner of the secret key knows what it is, only they can generate a valid signature, so you can trust the software that the signature verifies.

One example of when you’ll see code signing occur is when you’re trying to install software on your phone or computer. On an iPhone, you can only install an app if it’s been signed using keys issued by Apple. This allows them to maintain control over what is installed on their devices. On Windows computers, the OS will warn you that the developer of the application cannot be verified if there isn’t a trusted signature, ensuring that you are caught by surprise by unsigned code. If code is signed correctly (and the creator is someone you trust), this is a strong mark in favor of the program being safe to install.

Beyond the signatures on the original program, code signing is also invaluable to securing the update process. It’s not difficult for an attacker to send a malicious update to a piece of software. However, most software uses signed updates, where the update is protected by a digital signature that could only be generated by someone with knowledge of the secret key. If the software will only accept and install signed updates, the bar is much higher for attackers attempting to insert backdoors or other malicious code into legitimate software. Code signing is what makes automated updates over the Internet possible and secure.

Implications of Poor Signature Security

Despite the importance of strong code signing practices and security for application security, many organizations have a weak strategy for protecting the secret keys used to sign their code and software updates. A recent survey found that only 28% of organizations had a well-defined process in place for signing their code. The remaining 72% of organizations (and all of their customers) are vulnerable to attacks where hackers attempt to gain access to code signing keys in order to sign malicious software updates. Since over a third (35%) of organizations don’t even know who is “in charge” of their code signing key, the bar isn’t set very high for hackers.

And those hackers are definitely making an effort to gain access to those poorly protected certificates. A report published in May 2018 described the tactics of a set of Chinese hacking groups operating as a team. In general this group targeted gaming studios and other tech companies that develop computer software for sale. One of the members of the group would perform the initial scouting for other groups, and, after obtaining access, search for storage drives and other places where the secret key used for code signing might be located. If they managed to steal keys, they would have the ability to load malware onto clients’ computers while hiding behind the legitimate code signer.

Improving Application Security

For software developers, the security of code signing is important for multiple different reasons. The first is that attackers taking advantage of poor code signing key security may manage to corrupt their supply chain. Most software has third-party dependencies, and a signed (but malicious) update to these could negatively impact the application itself. For this reason, it is important to develop a security plan that manages the possibility of corrupted dependencies within the organization’s software.

Finally, developers of valuable software might be targeted by groups attempting to steal and misuse their code signing certificates. If successful, an attacker could corrupt their application code on their customers’ machines through signed malicious updates. To protect against this, organizations need a comprehensive security strategy. Beyond defending the code signing keys, it’s also important to implement detective and protective mechanisms for the code itself. This requires a degree of visibility beyond that of traditional, perimeter-based security solutions, so organizations in this situation should research and deploy runtime application self-protection (RASP), defensive software integrated into the product itself, to ensure their application security.

 

5 Things You Should Know About Travelling To Greece

by

If we went back in time a few years, we’d find that Greece was once a great deal more popular as a tourist destination than it is right now. The last decade hasn’t been a happy one for Greece when it comes to how it’s perceived on the global stage – a sharp recession followed by an internationally-funded bailout has generated a lot of unwanted press. That’s taken some of the shine off it as a vacation destination, which is a shame because it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

If you’re considering a vacation to Greece – and you really should – then you’ll find the Greeks will be very happy to see you. Tourism is a huge part of their economy, and as the country rebuilds itself it’s going to extra mile to make sure visitors feel welcome, and then go home and tell all their friends about how great it is. That way, they’ll want to come as well! It’s also a little cheaper to go than it may have been in the past – lower demand has meant lower prices, and so right now is a good time to take advantage before they shoot up again.

Before you set off to Greece and its enchanting islands, though, there are a few things you ought to know about the country. We’ve condensed them into five fast facts, so consider this a handy reference guide!

History And Modernity Are Fused Together

Greece is famous all around the world for its ancient myths and legends. We’ve all heard about Mount Olympus, and the great Greek god Zeus. Many people will have fond memories of Ancient Greece being their favorite subject when they were at school. That fascination has evidently followed people into adulthood; if you go to a mobile slots website or the related casinos, you’ll find various mobile slots based on Greek myth. Zeus has several mobile slots named in his honor. There’s even a mobile slots game based on Pandora! Just like with the mobile slots, though, modern Greece has fused the old and the new together.

Many of the structures of Ancient Greece are still standing – the Parthenon being the best-known and most mysterious (did you know it contains no straight lines or right angles?) but in many cases, the modern towns and cities have grown up around the old monuments. Don’t expect them to be standing alone in an open field – there’s probably a McDonald’s around the corner!

It’s A Bit Smoky

If you’re a smoker, firstly you should quit. Secondly, you’ll probably love Greece. If you’re a non-smoker, you might be in for a bit of throat irritation. There are more smokers in Greece than there are anywhere else in the European Union (and possibly the world). There have been various government initiatives aimed at reducing the smoking rate, but the issue is that Greeks don’t seem all that interested in giving up.

Smoking is theoretically banned in all indoor spaces, although in rural areas you’ll likely find nobody enforces or pays any attention to that ban. In busy outdoor spaces, you’ll probably be followed by the smell of smoke wherever you go. Make sure you take plenty of changes of clothes, and consider a face mask if it particularly bothers you.

Greek Retailers Prefer Cash

In the major Greek cities (for example Athens, which we’ll go ahead and assume is one of your planned destinations), you won’t have to look very far for an ATM. Almost everywhere else, you will. Some of the islands you might want to visit won’t have an ATM at all. Even if they did, they wouldn’t be much use to you; many traders and retailers only accept cash. You’re unlikely to have a problem with large, global brands, but if you want to get a taste of Greek culture and shop at authentic Greek stores, you’ll need to carry cash on you at all times.

If it’s not clear whether a shop or venue accepts card payments, make sure you get clarification on the matter before you attempt to make any purchases. If you waste a merchant’s time by trying to proceed with a purchase you can’t pay for, you may find out that the stereotypes of Mediterranean temper are well-founded!

Drive At Your Own Risk

You might find that the driving style of Greeks is a little more aggressive than you’re accustomed to. If they think you’re moving too slowly, they’ll have no qualms about overtaking you. That overtake might happen on either the right or left side. Motorcycles seem to operate according to their own rules, and weave in and out of traffic without warning (and there are a lot of them). If you’re not accustomed to it, it can be very stressful.

Because of the stress of driving, you might prefer to take a taxi, but you should also be aware of taxi etiquette, too. It’s not unknown for a taxi driver to pick up a fare while your ride is already underway. If the driver can figure out a way to drop you and your new friend off along the same route, they’ll do it. If this happens, don’t worry – you’re not expected to split the fare. Your driver will have a separate tab running for each of you. In a lot of ways, it’s a more efficient way of running taxis than is the norm in the USA!

They Don’t Get Drunk

Greece is the nation that gave the world ouzo. Because of that, you might think they drink ouzo like the Russians drink vodka, and that a Greek bar is, therefore, an exceptionally rowdy place. The Greeks do love a drink, but they’re especially good at knowing their limits. You will rarely see a drunk Greek anywhere. They’ll eat, drink, and be merry, but merry is as far as the majority of them go.

As you’re in their country, you’ll be expected to conduct yourself in a similar manner. The Greeks don’t take kindly to public drunkenness. Years of exposure to British and American bachelor parties on the islands have made them even more wary of this than they used to be. Enjoy a drink on your vacation, but do so in moderation. You’ll be more likely to remember your spectacular trip that way!

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

The Benefits of IOS Over Google Play

by

For those who use the iPhone the technology used to drive these products provides several advantages over Android. The key app purchase area is either the app store for iPhone or Google Play for Android. The question you might have as a new investor is which is better and why. Here is a comparison of the two.

If you are purchasing a new smart phone and you what to trade forex or CFDs, chances are that you will be using one of two operating systems, which are Google’s Android or Apple’s iOS. These two platforms accounted for nearly all the new operating systems on smartphones shipped in 2018. Microsoft has thrown in the towel on its Windows Phone, BlackBerry makes Android devices now, and there are very few other options worth considering. The number of apps on Google play in 2018 was 2.7 million, while ios had 2.2 million apps.

Traditionally, iOS has been a more lucrative platform for developers, so there has been a tendency for new apps to appear there first. In the US iOS still leads the way, but developers elsewhere are increasingly targeting Android as the first place they introduce new applications. The Play Store still has a higher percentage of free apps in comparison to the App Store. But the best mobile games still land on iOS first according to many surveys.

Organization

Between the two stores, there are millions of apps and games and neither Google’s Play Store or Apple’s App Store organize their stores perfectly. The Play Store is easier to search compared to the ios store and you can queue and install apps from the web browser on your PC or laptop. The Play Store has an advantage as it provides a no hastle refund policy within two hours of purchase. There are some questionable apps in both stores, but Apple is generally stricter about blocking certain types of apps.

More People on Their Products

One of the most popular applications is the mapping application that is offered for free by Google and Apple. Apple Maps did not have a great start, but it has improved significantly. Key features are similar, you can download maps for offline use, get accurate estimates based on current traffic conditions, and find turn-by-turn directions for driving or walking. One thing that Google Maps offers that Apple Maps doesn’t is cycling directions. Overall, the scale and quality of Google Maps is unsurpassed. It has more points of interest and it is generally more detailed than Apple Maps.

Which is better for Trading?

Both applications provide a great trading experience. Your preference as to the phone or tablet you like to use should take precedence over the operating system. Both systems offer excellent trading applications and few brokers offer only one operating systems. You will find that the majority offer both ios and android.

 

The Most Important Tips For Managing Your Pool Business

by

When it comes to establishing and managing your own pool business, there are quite a few things that you should always have under your belt. And for those who have actually taken up this particular business, they’ll also know just how lucrative it actually becomes. Our article features the most important aspects that you need to know when it comes to managing your pool business.

A pool business becomes quite profitable when you set up shop in any town where the residents heavily rely on their personal pools as they cool down during the summer heat. In essence, a pool business owner readily makes contact with residents who need maintenance, cleaning, chemical balancing and even aid with the task of refilling and draining. And for most entrepreneurs, they easily have the chance to either start on their own or go into a partnership with a leading franchise of an already existing successful monopoly.

In some cases, potential business owners can take full advantage of an easy franchise opportunity. This is simply due to the fact that you’ll also be able to gain coveted secrets about your new found trade. However, depending on the current management, you’ll most likely have to start things off by being ready to spend a huge chunk of change in order to deal with the up-front costs associated with the franchise.

When it comes to managing your business, you’re going to need to ensure that you have a business license. And if you’re planning to conduct business from either a store front or even your home, you’re still going to need to apply for a license. So, be sure to visit City Hall as you inquire about the entire process of obtaining a license in your district. However, one of the main reasons business owners seek to obtain a license is to gain access to selective business rates at their local bank and even wholesale discounts from merchants.

Additionally, you’re also going to need to get your hands on a series of reputable pool business management software for conducting swimming pool services along with tracking your equipment and even answering business calls. One particular leading company known as Evosus offers a highly competitive solution to all your business software needs, especially if you’re interested in growing your business in a short space of time. And to add to your lucky streak with using Evosus you’ll finally be able to maintain your client database, review and open new estimates, conduct relatively small ends and odds and even properly plan your entire business while building profits. In some cases, most start-ups think of this as spending unnecessarily however, it grows just like your business and is considered by industry experts as an absolute must have.

When it comes to managing the marketing aspects of your business, you’re also going to need to have desktop publishing capabilities. On the bright side, marketing your business comes at a pretty low cost and you can save a great deal when you opt for printing your business cards straight from your personal home computer. Simply put, you’re going to be able to do wonders with desktop publishing as you create custom flyers, cards and materials for marketing straight out of your home office. And, as you grow you can of course outsource all these tasks.

If you’re also keeping a list of specific supplies for your business, you’re going to need to determine how much and what exactly you need depending on how much work is done. And if you’ve just started, chances are you’re going to need a completely different set of items when compared to a business that deals with the installation aspects of the pool industry. So, be sure to determine the various services that you offer and stock up on the relevant necessities.

If your business is already up and running, it might be time to think about purchasing insurance to protect your hard work and most importantly your main assets within your company. This also protects against lawsuits which may suddenly arise over time. And if you work from home, it can also save you a great deal by protecting your personal home assets.

As we conclude, we have just given you the most important tips for managing your upcoming pool business. Another asset you can also add to your business is a vehicle that can be used for transport whenever you may need it. So, be sure to pay some extra attention to what was mentioned above and in no time, you’ll be much more successful!

 

Hassle-Free Ways to Reduce Stress in a Factory Environment

by

There are some business owners that might say stress in a factory is understandable, and typically goes hand in hand. While stress and anxiety tend to be the norm when it comes to handling a factory environment, there are excellent reasons why factory workers tend to get stressed out. One such reason is that the factory is not safe enough for the worker to feel secure.

The problem with an unsafe environment is that it often becomes a life and death situation for factory workers. There are plenty of accidents that could have been avoided if the business owner had just been more careful. Here are just a few hassle-free ways to reduce stress in your factory space.

Ensure that every worker understands how disposal works in your factory

More often than not, disposal in a factory means the destruction of harmful chemicals. Even if your company does not necessarily work with such chemicals, it does not mean that you can relax. Training is extremely critical for any worker, as well as a decent understanding of how disposal works. After all, mishandling of certain elements during the destruction process can lead to injuries – and that is normally the best-case scenario. Things can and will get much worse if you do not ensure that those who work under you are taught how to dispose of the chemicals in your factory space properly.

The right type of flooring matters

If you want to reduce stress in a factory environment significantly, take a good look at the flooring you use for your factory. While it is understandable to focus on heavy machinery and equipment from quality sources such as www.hydraproducts.co.uk, it can be easy to overlook the flooring. However, not having the right type of industrial flooring could lead to more accidents. If your workers feel unsafe on the very ground they stand on, it is understandable why productivity might plummet. Make your workers feel safer by using industrial-grade flooring wherever it is applicable.

Host company events

Aside from dealing with the safety and guidelines of your factory, it would be a good idea to raise company morale by hosting a business event! If you are looking for a reason to host such an event, just the fact that your workers are doing their best in a factory environment is reason enough to celebrate. You do not have to spend lavishly on a venue, but it would still be a good idea to host a decent event so your staff can celebrate. Acknowledging their hard work is an excellent way to foster loyalty, which will help your staff focus harder when it is time to get the work done.

From hosting company events to using the right type of flooring, there are plenty of ways to promote a stress-free environment in your factory. The best part is that the more you eliminate stress, the easier it will be for your staff to be productive.

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

6 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Career in Software Engineering

by

Having a strong interest in computer programming should be enough reason for anyone to choose software engineering as a profession. However, other practical reasons must not be overlooked before you make your final decision as it is going to have a huge impact on your life.

Listed below are helpful reasons why anyone should choose to become a software engineer rather than other high paying careers out there.

1. Software engineers can earn over $80,000 per year

One reason why it’s well worth becoming a software engineer is that the average salary for software engineering is over $80,000 a year. With a bit of experience under your belt, you should be able to apply for a software engineer position at a prominent company that offers over $100,000 a year.

So if you’re looking for a possible career that offers great career opportunities and a competitive pay rate, you may want to pursue a career as a professional software engineer.

2. You’ll be able to collaborate with like-minded individuals

Software engineers are required to solve issues with new applications and software as part of a team and often work with other software engineers in order to develop brand new products. So if you assumed that software engineers spent most of their time working alone, think again. As a software engineer, you’ll be able to work alongside other individuals who share your passion for software engineering.

3. You’ll be able to make a huge impact

Not only will you earn a competitive salary as a software engineer but you’ll also get to make a mark on the world. As you’ll be able to work for companies whose ideals and vision you share. As an example, you may choose to work for a company that wants to improve the everyday lives of individuals. No matter what issues are close to your heart, you’ll be able to apply to work at a company whose values are in line with your own values.

4. Software engineers are in high demand

In many cities around the world software engineers are in hot demand and there simply aren’t enough software engineers to fill all of the positions which are vacant. Especially as every business around the world now requires the skills of a team of professional software engineers.

5. You’ll be able to work abroad

If you’re interested in applying for jobs abroad in order to experience the benefits of working in a foreign country, you won’t have any difficulties finding a high paid job abroad. As software engineers are in high demand in most cosmopolitan cities around the world.

For example, if you have an interest in working in Asia for a year, you’ll be able to find software engineering position in a city like Tokyo, Beijing or Seoul. Alternatively, if you have a strong interest in living and working in a busy European city such as Berlin, London or Paris, you’ll also be able to find a position which interests you.

6. You’ll be suitably challenged

Another advantage of working as a software engineer is that you’ll be suitably challenged as software engineering requires great problem solving skills.

If you love the sound of the benefits associated with working as a software engineer, it’s well worth finding out more information about pursuing a career as a software engineer!

 

Tips for Making an Effective Discovery Call

by

A sales discovery call is a two-way conversation between a company and buyer. The purpose of the call determines if the parties are a good fit for each other, and uncovers the buyer’s weakness, priorities, and goals. This intel then helps an agent effectively sell a solution.

To navigate the process, use these tips for making an effective discovery call.

Pre-strategize

Before picking up the phone, a sales agent should create and practice a pitch. Know the purpose of the call and prepare the questions to be asked as well as the responses that clients can give based on assumed objections. Think about the desired outcome of the call and what information can be gleaned from the conversation.

You should have the right resources too. Get the most out of inbound call center software by utilizing the most advanced omnichannel call center product. An omnichannel software platform allows agents to engage with customers across multiple channels. It enables flawless transition between channels, keeps detailed accounts of all customer-agent interactions from the beginning, and allows for customers to consistently work with the same agent.

The more preparation that goes into a discovery call, the more streamlined the execution will be and the higher the chance of having a productive call.

Record calls

Whenever possible, record discovery calls. When talking to a customer, notes need to be taken throughout the duration of a call. A lot of information can come up, and trying to decipher scribbled notes after the fact can be confusing when it comes to follow up.

Recording calls ensures that all details, context, and tone do not get lost in translation. Plus, re-visiting calls is a great coaching exercise to find where there is room for improvement and what tactics are successful.

Set the agenda

Start a discovery call with an agenda of objectives in order to manage a prospect’s expectations and bring them into the sales process. Strategy keeps an agent in control of the conversation and avoids derailing the objective or allowing room for confusion about the purpose of the call by the client.

Discovery calls are meant to uncover, learn, and build value. Agents need to approach calls with confidence and ease.

Asking the questions

Discovery is a balance between asking questions and listening. Talk-to-listen ratios are important to remember: agents should try to talk no more than 46 percent of the time, and spend the remaining 54 percent listening to prospects.

Level 1 discovery questions align with “qualification” over discovery because they establish the prospect situation and whether or not it is appropriate to delve deeper. Level 2 discovery questions further unveil details about a prospect’s challenges based on the answers to previous questions and show an agent how to be helpful.

Level 3 discovery questions are the tough ones that push the comfort boundaries. This is the level that shows the prospect how they are missing out by not using a product or service and where the agent demonstrates what can be achieved by purchasing what they have to offer.

Going for the close

A discovery call is successful when an agent can close a prospect into the next steps. When an agent feels that a call is going in a successful direction, the aim is to summarize the specific areas in which the product or service will benefit the prospect.

An “assumptive” close iterates back to the prospect how an agent can help address specific challenges that are identified during the call. A “prospect buy-in” close is less assumptive and allows for the prospect to agree that they have a challenge and are interested in having the agent share a solution.

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