Bloggers News Blog: Business
Showing posts with label Business. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Business. Show all posts

Monday, 5 May 2025

GST Relief April 2025: Understanding Payment Amounts and Eligibility Changes

21:36
GST Relief April 2025: Understanding Payment Amounts and Eligibility Changes

GST Relief April 2025: Understanding Payment Amounts and Eligibility Changes

As the cost of living continues to be a significant concern for Canadians, many are looking for ways to ease their financial burden. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit, a tax-free quarterly payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is designed to help low-to-moderate income individuals and families offset the GST/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) they pay. With the April 2025 payment date having recently passed (April 4th, 2025), it's crucial to understand the payment amounts and any changes to eligibility for this vital benefit. 

Understanding the GST/HST Credit

The GST/HST credit is not a one-time relief measure but an ongoing program. Eligibility is primarily based on your adjusted family net income (AFNI) as reported on your income tax return from the previous year (in this case, the 2024 tax return, which had a filing deadline of April 30, 2025). Even if you had no income to report, filing a tax return is essential to be considered for the credit.

GST Relief April 2025


Key Eligibility Criteria for the GST/HST Credit in April 2025 (Based on the 2024 Tax Year):

To be eligible for the GST/HST credit, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

  • Residency: You must be a resident of Canada for income tax purposes.
  • Age: You must be 19 years of age or older. However, individuals under 19 may be eligible if they have (or had) a spouse or common-law partner, or if they are (or were) a parent living with their child.
  • Tax Filing: You must have filed a 2024 income tax return.
  • Income: Your adjusted family net income (and that of your spouse or common-law partner, if applicable) must fall below certain thresholds. These thresholds vary depending on your family size.

Important Note on Temporary Residents: Certain temporary residents who have lived in Canada for at least 183 days in a year and intend to stay may also be eligible. Newcomers to Canada may need to complete Form RC151, GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada.

Payment Amounts for April 2025:

The amount of GST/HST credit you receive depends on your individual and family circumstances, particularly your adjusted family net income and the number of children you have. For the payment period from July 2024 to June 2025 (which includes the April 2025 payment), the maximum annual credit amounts were approximately:

  • Single individual: Up to $519.
  • Married or common-law couple: Up to $680.
  • Each child under 19: An additional $179 per child.

These annual amounts are typically divided into four equal quarterly payments, issued in January, April, July, and October. Therefore, the April 4, 2025 payment would have been one of these quarterly installments.

Example Scenarios (Estimates):

  • A single individual with a low income might have received approximately $129.75 in April 2025 ($519 / 4).
  • A couple with two children and a modest income might have received approximately $259.50 in April 2025 (($680 + (2 * $179)) / 4).

Changes to Eligibility and Potential Additional Relief:

While the core eligibility for the GST/HST credit remains relatively consistent, there can be adjustments to income thresholds and benefit amounts based on factors like inflation. It's important to note that there have been discussions and even some reports of potential additional one-time GST relief payments in 2025.

Some sources indicated a potential $250 one-time GST relief payment aimed at low-to-moderate income working Canadians, initially slated for December 2024 but potentially moved to April 2025. Eligibility for this specific relief might have had additional criteria, such as being actively employed in 2023 and having a net income below a certain threshold (e.g., $150,000). However, the implementation and specific details of such a one-time payment can vary, and it's crucial to rely on official CRA announcements for confirmation.

Furthermore, there are scheduled increases to the GST/HST credit amounts effective July 2025, based on the 2024 tax year. These increases aim to further support low-income Canadians in the face of rising costs.

How to Check Your Payment Amount and Eligibility:

The most reliable way to check your specific GST/HST credit payment amount and confirm your eligibility is through the CRA's online services:

  • CRA My Account: If you are registered for My Account, you can log in to view your benefit information, including the status and amount of your GST/HST credit payments.
  • CRA MyBenefits App: You can also access some of this information through the CRA's mobile app.

If you are not registered for online services, you can contact the CRA directly at 1-800-387-1193.

Important Considerations:

  • Direct Deposit: Ensure your banking information is up-to-date with the CRA to receive payments directly and avoid delays.
  • Late Filing: Filing your tax return late can delay your GST/HST credit payments.
  • Changes in Circumstances: Inform the CRA of any changes in your marital status, number of children, or address, as these can affect your eligibility and payment amount.

In Conclusion:

The GST/HST credit provides essential financial support to many Canadians. While the April 2025 payment has been issued based on the established eligibility criteria and amounts, it's vital to stay informed about any potential additional relief measures and future adjustments to the program. Regularly checking your CRA My Account or contacting the CRA directly will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your GST/HST credit benefits. Remember that filing your tax return on time is the primary step in determining your eligibility for this and other valuable benefits. 

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21:28

 

Lucky Few? CRA Announces $3,000 One-Time GST Rebate for Select Canadians

In a move that has sparked both excitement and questions, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced a one-time Goods and Services Tax (GST) rebate of $3,000. However, before you start planning how to spend that extra cash, it's crucial to understand the catch: this significant rebate isn't for everyone.

The CRA has specified that this one-time payment is targeted towards a specific segment of the Canadian population. While the exact eligibility criteria haven't been broadly advertised, sources indicate that the rebate is primarily aimed at low-to-moderate income individuals and families who are currently receiving GST/HST credit benefits.

This targeted approach means that not all Canadians who are registered for GST/HST will automatically receive this $3,000 payment. The CRA is likely leveraging its existing system for GST/HST credit distribution to identify and deliver the rebate to eligible recipients.


So, who exactly might qualify?

Based on the likely criteria, individuals and families who already receive the regular GST/HST credit payments are the most probable beneficiaries. This credit is designed to help offset the GST/HST paid by households with lower incomes. Factors such as family size and adjusted family net income are typically used to determine eligibility for the regular GST/HST credit, and these factors are likely to play a role in this one-time rebate as well.

Why this targeted approach?

The government's decision to focus this substantial rebate on specific income brackets suggests an intention to provide direct financial relief to those who may be most impacted by the rising cost of living. The GST/HST is a consumption tax, meaning it affects everyone, but its impact is often felt more acutely by lower-income households who spend a larger proportion of their income on essential goods and services.

How will eligible Canadians receive the rebate?

If you are eligible for this one-time payment, the CRA will likely deposit it directly into your bank account if you are enrolled in direct deposit. If not, a cheque will likely be mailed to your last known address on file with the CRA. There is generally no need to apply separately for this rebate if you are already receiving the GST/HST credit.

What if you think you might be eligible but haven't received it?

If you believe you meet the criteria for the GST/HST credit and haven't received the one-time rebate within a reasonable timeframe (the CRA will likely provide specific timelines), it's advisable to:

  • Check your CRA My Account: Log in to your CRA online portal to see if there are any notifications or details regarding the payment.
  • Ensure your contact information is up-to-date: Verify that your address and banking information are correct in your CRA My Account.
  • Contact the CRA directly: If you still have questions, you can contact the CRA's individual income tax enquiries line. Be prepared for potential wait times.

The Bottom Line:

This $3,000 one-time GST rebate offers a significant financial boost for select Canadians. While it's not a universal payment, it's a targeted measure aimed at providing relief to those who need it most. Keep an eye on your CRA My Account and official CRA communications for further details and timelines regarding this rebate.

Have you received this rebate? What are your thoughts on this targeted approach? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

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Thursday, 10 October 2024

Trending Tech Gadgets for 2024

03:29
Trending Tech Gadgets for 2024

The tech industry is ever-evolving, and 2024 is shaping up to be a groundbreaking year in many ways. The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), 5G connectivity, and sustainable technology will likely transform the way we interact with the digital world. Tech gadgets in 2024 are expected to not only make life more convenient but also enhance personal health, entertainment, and connectivity.

Key trends include:

  • AI Integration: Devices are becoming smarter and more autonomous, allowing users to delegate routine tasks to AI.
  • Sustainability: An increasing focus on eco-friendly gadgets and energy-efficient designs as climate consciousness grows.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Immersive experiences are expected to become mainstream, especially in entertainment and education.
  • Health and Wellness: Gadgets focusing on fitness, mental health, and overall well-being are seeing rapid advancement.

Let’s dive into each category to explore the most exciting gadgets that are defining 2024.


2. Smartphones and Mobile Devices

Smartphones continue to evolve, with major advancements in design, connectivity, and AI capabilities. In 2024, mobile devices are more powerful, foldable, and intelligent than ever before.

Foldable Phones

Foldable phones are no longer a novelty—they are becoming mainstream in 2024. Brands like Samsung, Google, and even Apple are expected to push the boundaries of foldable smartphone technology. These devices offer the convenience of a smartphone with the functionality of a tablet, making them ideal for multitasking.

Key features of 2024 foldable phones include:

  • Improved durability: New hinge designs and stronger display materials make foldable phones more resistant to wear and tear.
  • Seamless integration: These phones allow users to switch between folded and unfolded modes without losing functionality, offering a smooth user experience.
  • Enhanced multitasking: Foldable screens are perfect for running multiple apps side-by-side, making them popular among professionals and gamers alike.

AI-Powered Smartphones

AI is increasingly integrated into smartphones, making 2024 devices smarter than ever. AI helps phones optimize battery usage, manage tasks, and improve photography. Brands like Google and Apple are at the forefront of incorporating AI into everyday smartphone functions.

Key developments:

  • Advanced AI assistants: AI-powered virtual assistants like Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri will be more intuitive and personalized, predicting user needs based on behavior and preferences.
  • Enhanced photography: AI-driven photography will allow smartphones to capture professional-quality images with little effort. AI will assist in everything from scene detection to real-time image enhancement.
  • AI-based personalization: From personalized notifications to tailored app suggestions, AI will shape the user experience by learning from habits and preferences.

Satellite-Connected Smartphones

The next frontier for mobile connectivity is satellite-enabled smartphones. As global coverage becomes increasingly important, satellite-connected phones will allow users to stay connected in even the most remote areas.

Key features:

  • No dead zones: Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or traveling through rural areas, satellite phones ensure you have a connection no matter where you are.
  • Emergency services: In case of natural disasters or emergencies, satellite connectivity will allow users to send SOS signals and critical data even when cellular networks fail.
trending tech gadgets for 2024



3. Wearable Technology

Wearable tech is more than just a trend—it’s a rapidly growing market. In 2024, wearables are becoming more advanced, with features that extend beyond fitness tracking and into areas like augmented reality and health monitoring.

Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

Smartwatches and fitness trackers are becoming essential tools for health-conscious individuals. In 2024, these devices are more accurate, feature-rich, and stylish than ever.

Key trends:

  • Health monitoring: The latest smartwatches offer real-time monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and even blood pressure.
  • Sleep tracking: Advanced algorithms analyze sleep patterns, helping users optimize their rest for better overall health.
  • Fitness insights: Wearables now offer personalized workout suggestions, track recovery times, and provide insights into long-term fitness progress.

Smart Glasses and AR Headsets

Augmented reality (AR) glasses and headsets are making a strong comeback in 2024. These devices are designed to overlay digital information onto the real world, enhancing productivity, entertainment, and social interactions.

Key features:

  • AR-enhanced productivity: AR glasses can project screens, charts, and other tools into your field of vision, making them invaluable for multitasking.
  • Immersive gaming and entertainment: Gamers and movie enthusiasts can enjoy a more immersive experience with AR-enhanced environments.
  • Social and communication tools: Imagine taking a call where the person’s avatar appears right in front of you, or using AR glasses to translate text in real-time as you travel abroad.

4. Smart Home Devices

Smart homes are no longer a futuristic dream—they are a reality for many. 2024 is set to introduce even more sophisticated smart home gadgets, designed to make daily tasks more efficient and convenient.

AI-Powered Assistants

AI-powered home assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri have become more powerful, intuitive, and integrated with other smart home devices.

Key advancements:

  • Multi-device control: These AI assistants can now control everything from lights to coffee machines, creating a fully integrated smart home ecosystem.
  • Voice recognition: Improved voice recognition capabilities mean that AI assistants will be able to differentiate between users, providing personalized responses and control based on individual preferences.
  • Home automation: From adjusting the thermostat to playing your favorite music, AI assistants will anticipate your needs and automate tasks, freeing up time for more important activities.

Smart Home Security Systems

In 2024, smart home security is more advanced than ever. AI-driven security systems, cameras, and sensors are providing homeowners with unparalleled peace of mind.

Key trends:

  • AI-enhanced cameras: Security cameras with AI can detect unusual activity, such as a person lingering near your front door, and send real-time alerts to your smartphone.
  • Facial recognition: Some systems can identify specific individuals, allowing for personalized access control and automatic unlocking of doors for recognized family members or friends.
  • Comprehensive monitoring: From motion sensors to video doorbells, smart security systems now offer 24/7 monitoring, cloud storage for video footage, and integration with police and emergency services.

Smart Appliances

Smart appliances are making kitchens, laundry rooms, and living spaces more efficient. 2024 introduces a new generation of connected devices that can be controlled via smartphones or smart assistants.

Examples:

  • Smart refrigerators: These fridges can track food expiration dates, suggest recipes based on available ingredients, and even automatically order groceries.
  • Smart ovens: Wi-Fi-enabled ovens can be controlled remotely, allowing users to preheat, cook, and monitor their meals from anywhere.
  • Energy-efficient washing machines: These appliances optimize water and energy usage, adjusting based on the load size and fabric type.

5. Entertainment and Gaming

Entertainment and gaming gadgets are taking immersive experiences to a whole new level in 2024. From virtual reality headsets to next-gen gaming consoles, these devices are designed to captivate users.

VR and AR Headsets

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are becoming mainstream in the entertainment world, with devices offering stunning visuals and immersive experiences.

Key devices:

  • Meta Quest 3: Building on the success of its predecessors, the Meta Quest 3 offers a seamless VR experience for both gaming and social interaction.
  • Apple Vision Pro: Expected to revolutionize AR headsets, Apple’s Vision Pro blends digital elements with the real world, creating an immersive AR experience like no other.

Next-Gen Gaming Consoles

In 2024, gaming consoles are pushing the boundaries of performance, with faster load times, better graphics, and more powerful processors.

Key trends:

  • Cloud gaming: With advancements in 5G, cloud gaming platforms are allowing players to stream high-quality games without the need for a high-end console.
  • Cross-platform compatibility: Gamers can now play across devices, with consoles, PCs, and mobile devices sharing the same ecosystem.
  • AI in gaming: AI is being used to create more realistic NPCs (non-playable characters), improve game physics, and generate real-time content based on player actions.

Portable Projectors

For movie lovers and gamers on the go, portable projectors have become a must-have gadget. These compact devices can turn any wall into a big screen, offering high-resolution displays and smart features.

Key features:

  • 4K resolution: Compact projectors in 2024 can project stunning 4K visuals, perfect for movies or gaming sessions.
  • Wireless connectivity: Most projectors can now connect to smartphones, laptops, or gaming consoles wirelessly, making setup quick and hassle-free.
  • Built-in streaming apps: Some models come with pre-installed streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube, turning them into standalone entertainment devices.

6. Health and Wellness Tech

The intersection of technology and health is one of the most exciting areas of innovation in 2024. Devices designed to monitor, improve, and optimize health are becoming smarter, more precise, and easier to use.

AI-Driven Health Monitors

From smartwatches to wearable patches, AI-driven health monitors are providing users with real-time data about their well-being.

Key devices:

  • Wearable ECG monitors: These devices monitor heart health and can detect irregularities like atrial fibrillation, sending alerts to both the user and their doctor.
  • Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs): For those with diabetes, wearable CGMs provide real-time blood sugar levels and alerts when intervention is needed.
  • Stress and mental health monitors: Devices that track stress levels through heart rate variability and other metrics are helping users manage their mental health more effectively.

Smart Sleep Devices

Good sleep is critical for overall health, and 2024 brings a host of new devices designed to improve sleep quality.

Key trends:

  • Smart mattresses: These mattresses adjust firmness, track sleep patterns, and even regulate temperature to ensure users get the best possible rest.
  • Sleep masks with integrated sensors: These masks monitor REM cycles, waking users up at the optimal time for restfulness.
  • Sound machines with AI: These devices create personalized soundscapes based on the user’s preferences and sleep environment, promoting deeper sleep.

Fitness Innovations

Fitness gadgets continue to evolve, with 2024 seeing the rise of devices that go beyond simple step counting.

Key innovations:

  • AI-driven personal trainers: Wearable fitness devices now offer real-time coaching based on the user’s performance, offering guidance during workouts.
  • Portable gym equipment: Compact, foldable workout devices are becoming more popular, allowing users to take their fitness routines anywhere.
  • Recovery tools: Smart massagers and recovery devices are designed to help athletes and fitness enthusiasts recover faster by providing targeted relief to sore muscles.

7. Automotive Tech

The automotive industry is undergoing a tech revolution, and 2024 is set to be a pivotal year for new innovations in cars and transportation.

Autonomous Vehicles

Self-driving cars are no longer just a concept—they are on the verge of becoming a reality in 2024. Major automotive companies like Tesla, Waymo, and GM are making strides toward fully autonomous vehicles.

Key features:

  • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS): These systems provide features like automatic braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control.
  • Full autonomy: Some manufacturers are testing vehicles that can drive themselves without human intervention, particularly for ride-hailing and delivery services.
  • Enhanced safety features: Autonomous vehicles are equipped with AI-driven sensors and cameras that monitor the road in real-time, reducing the risk of accidents.

Electric Vehicle Innovations

Electric vehicles (EVs) are taking the spotlight in 2024, with advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and vehicle range.

Key trends:

  • Solid-state batteries: These batteries are more efficient, safer, and offer longer ranges than traditional lithium-ion batteries, making EVs more practical for everyday use.
  • Fast charging: New charging stations are being built that can recharge EVs in minutes, not hours.
  • EV affordability: As production costs decrease, electric cars are becoming more affordable, making them accessible to a broader audience.

In-Car AI Systems

Cars in 2024 are smarter than ever, with AI systems that enhance both the driving experience and passenger comfort.

Key features:

  • Voice-activated controls: Drivers can control everything from navigation to climate settings through voice commands, allowing for hands-free operation.
  • AI-driven infotainment systems: These systems offer personalized entertainment options, such as music and podcasts, based on the driver’s preferences.
  • Predictive maintenance: AI monitors the car’s systems in real-time, detecting potential issues before they become serious problems.

8. Sustainable Tech Innovations

As the world becomes more conscious of its environmental impact, sustainable tech gadgets are gaining popularity in 2024.

Solar-Powered Gadgets

Solar-powered devices are becoming more efficient and widely available, allowing users to harness renewable energy for everyday tasks.

Key gadgets:

  • Solar-powered chargers: These chargers are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint, offering a green way to charge smartphones and other devices.
  • Solar-powered speakers: Portable Bluetooth speakers powered by the sun are perfect for outdoor parties or trips, eliminating the need for electricity or disposable batteries.
  • Solar backpacks: These backpacks come equipped with solar panels, allowing users to charge devices on the go.

Energy-Efficient Devices

Energy-efficient devices are designed to reduce power consumption without sacrificing performance, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Key examples:

  • Smart thermostats: These devices learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, optimizing energy use and lowering utility bills.
  • Energy-efficient lighting: LED bulbs and smart lighting systems are more energy-efficient than ever, offering the same brightness with less power consumption.
  • Eco-friendly laptops: Some manufacturers are focusing on producing laptops made from recycled materials and using energy-efficient components.

9. Conclusion: What to Expect Beyond 2024

As we look beyond 2024, the trends we see today are likely to continue shaping the future of technology. AI will become even more integrated into our daily lives, with smart gadgets evolving to anticipate our needs before we even voice them. Sustainability will also remain a key focus, as consumers demand products that are not only innovative but also environmentally friendly.

In the world of entertainment, AR and VR will continue to blur the lines between the digital and physical worlds, offering experiences that are more immersive and interactive. Meanwhile, health and wellness tech will become more personalized, offering individuals tools to manage their health more proactively.

The tech gadgets of 2024 are set to redefine convenience, entertainment, and sustainability, offering users the chance to lead smarter, healthier, and more connected lives. Whether you’re an early adopter or a casual consumer, the future of tech is bright, and 2024 is just the beginning.


With this complete guide, you’re now up to date on the latest tech trends and innovations for 2024. Whether you're looking to upgrade your smartphone, enhance your smart home, or dive into the world of virtual reality, there's a tech gadget waiting for you!

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Monday, 4 November 2019

McDonald's ousts CEO over consensual relationship with an employee

00:05
McDonald's ousts CEO over consensual relationship with an employee

McDonald's ousts CEO over consensual relationship with an employee


McDonald's Corp disregarded Chief Executive Steve Easterbrook over a recent consensual relationship with a worker, which the board determined violated company policy, the fast-food giant said on Sunday

The board found that Easterbrook, 52, who had led McDonald's since 2015, had"demonstrated poor judgment" involving the connection, McDonald's said in a news release. Easterbrook relinquished his seat on the provider's board as well.

"This was a mistake," Easterbrook said of the relationship in an email to employees on Sunday released by the company. "Given the values of the business, I agree with the board that it is time for me to move on."

His departure was one of the most significant in corporate America in the past several years over connections deemed inappropriate.

Scrutiny of executives and their treatment of workers has intensified amid the #MeToo social media movement, which emphasized instances of sexual harassment at work. In June 2018, Intel Corp CEO Brian Krzanich resigned after an investigation found he had a consensual relationship with a worker that breached company policy.

Chris Kempczinski, 51, most recently president of McDonald's USA, was named the corporation's new CEO, effective immediately. He also joined the McDonald's board.

In his own message to employees, Kempczinski thanked Easterbrook for recruiting him to McDonald's and said he expected the company to continue its customer-focused growth plan. McDonald's Chairman Enrique Hernandez Jr. called Kempczinski"instrumental" in developing the company's strategic plan.

Chicago-based McDonald's, one of the world's most recognizable brands, recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Happy Meal for children and is famous for its family-friendly reputation.

The company didn't provide further details about the circumstances surrounding Easterbrook's passing. McDonald's is expected to disclose financial information associated with Easterbrook's dismissal in a securities filing as soon as Monday, the company said.

The business called Joe Erlinger, who has been president of international operated markets, as president of McDonald's USA, succeeding Kempczinski.

"While clearly a reduction, McDonald's maintains one of the deepest and longest-tenured management teams, which should help provide some stability through this unexpected transition," Raymond James analyst Brian Vaccaro said in a research note about Easterbrook's departure.

RIVALS CHALLENGE DOMINANCE
McDonald's shares roughly doubled during Easterbrook's tenure. But the chain in October missed Wall Street profit estimates for the first time in two years as it spent money remodeling U.S. restaurants and speeding up service to tackle declining customer visits.

Rival fast-food chains in america have challenged McDonald's dominance with value meals and new menu items, such as plant-based burgers and meat substitutes launched by competitions including Restaurant Brands International Inc's Burger King and Yum Brands Inc's KFC. McDonald's is seen late in reintroducing chicken sandwiches and rival Wendys Co has begun serving breakfast.

The remodeling of the company's 14,000 U.S. restaurants comprises introducing digital ordering kiosks, mobile ordering and pay-and-pickup solutions, while partnering with app-based delivery solutions GrubHub Inc, Uber Eats and DoorDash.

Easterbrook turned around McDonald's operations in the UK, where he was born, by refocusing on hamburgers and burnishing the brand with an ad campaign that sought to debunk unflattering rumors about its food.

A cricket enthusiast who made a reputation among former UK colleagues for being funny, honest and a lover of simplicity, Easterbrook was also the rare McDonald's CEO with experience running other restaurant chains.

HARASSMENT COMPLAINTS
Following the disclosure of Easterbrook's ouster, a labor movement advocating for a 15-an-hour minimum wage and union rights on behalf of fast-food workers, alleged McDonald's had failed to address a sexual harassment problem at the firm.

"McDonald's needs to sit down with worker-survivors and put them at the center of any solution," the group, the Fight for $15 and a Union, said in a statement. "And the company has to be completely clear about Easterbrook's firing and any other executive departures related to these issues."

McDonald's had no immediate comment on the group's statement.

McDonald's has faced allegations from the past year of condoning sexual harassment in the workplace and retaliating against workers who spoke up about it.

In September, scores of local government officials from 31 U.S. states pressured McDonald's to do a much better job of protecting workers from groping, obscene comments and other forms of sexual harassment, including their voices to an employee-led campaign which has seen walkouts at several shops.

McDonald's pointed then to an August announcement of a new training program for safe workplaces supported by more than 2,000 franchisees. Kempczinski said at the time the franchisees and company"have a responsibility to take action on this issue and are committed to promoting positive change."
News Source Reuters
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Monday, 23 September 2019

Learn What You Need To Know About Managing Your Reputation

19:37
Learn What You Need To Know About Managing Your Reputation

Learn What You Need To Know About Managing Your Reputation

Many businesses have experienced difficulties because they didn't understand how outstanding their reputation was. Failing to value your clients will lead to word to spread. This article offers ways to build a solid reputation and a loyal customer base.

To help boost your internet presence, consider using social media. Websites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn can help you build business presence both online and offline. To use social media efficiently, you need to post statuses regularly. When submitting information through a social networking website, use keywords, and give your readers the information they require.


The ideal way to control your reputation is to offer excellent customer service to everybody that you deal with. When everybody is happy, they say positive things or only nothing whatsoever. Word of mouth is the most effective advertising because it is free and unstoppable. Make sure nobody ever has a reason to bad mouth you in the first location.

Try using a social network like LinkedIn to help your reputation management. This social networking can rank a bit higher than a number of the other ones. It's also an essential instrument for B2B businesses. This is because people like to look for services on LinkedIn instead of the search engines.

Be thankful. If someone leaves a fantastic review of your organization, send them a private message and thank them for their opinions. If you can, send your customer a coupon for some percentage off on their next purchase as a thank you. If this isn't feasible, sincerely thank them for their opinions.
If you use anyone's thoughts, you must always make sure you give them credit for it. Everyone out there can learn a bit from others, so giving due credit will show people who you don't think you're above that. This is a superb way to earn their respect.
Never post fake reviews and remarks that would set your company in a positive light. Whether you believe it or not, most clients will know when they're being scammed, and they'll lose confidence in you and your organization. Instead of gaining clients, you might end up losing them.

Whenever you have a company, you must establish a procedure to handle negative reviews. Always respond to negative reviews fast and adequately; differently, your silence can come across as indifference. Also, it's just as important to acknowledge any positive reviews with appreciation and reinforcement.

Attempt to follow up with your clients soon when they make purchases. This will make it more probable that they will express concerns with you instead of sharing them throughout the net. You may use this as an opportunity to resolve the problem before it gets out of hand.

Measure up to serve the community as a corporate sponsor in a charity event. Your reputation will soar! You may make a positive impression on your clients when they see your business donating time and money to a community cause. This is extremely important to the overall success of your enterprise.

You should put a complaint form on your website and encourage clients to use them if they're not happy with your goods and services. This will give them the idea that it's better to talk things out with you instead of leaving negative comments all over the Web. Make sure you do your best to address each the problems that are presented to you.

Understanding your customers is a fantastic way to protect the reputation of your organization. Make sure to talk and survey your customers. Learn what they love and do not love about your organization. Being mindful of what they love can help you speak about those things. Knowing what they dislike allows you to address it or repair it. It also makes you more prepared if your reputation is attacked.

Be cautious of what you and your employees say online. Anything said on Facebook, Twitter, or anywhere online can remain online forever. Make sure your company has a social networking policy in place. The voice of your employees may represent your organization, which may be good or bad. Therefore, they must act according to the established social media coverage.

Make good use of anchor text. This is text that is hyperlinked to another related web page. When search engines rate your website, they assess the anchor text to make sure that it is relevant. Relevant hyperlinks help boost your website's authority. Conversely, when other sites link to your website, this also builds your credibility and builds your online reputation.

Often once you buy a .com domain name, you're offered the choice to buy the title with .org, .net and .info suffixes also. It's intelligent to do so, and it is even smarter to develop these into related websites instead of merely having them all wind up on your primary website. In case you have several different sites with higher quality, pertinent content about your niche, it is going to help establish your ability and build your reputation online.

It is possible to counteract negative remarks and content by generating plenty of positive content. Websites make great platforms for this purpose as you can find a good deal of positive information before the public speedily. It is possible to use free blog services such as Blogger or WordPress for this. The most important thing is to keep them filled with upbeat, positive information regarding you, your service or product and your website to keep a positive online standing.

When handling online disputes, make sure to remain calm and avoid sarcasm. Stick to the facts at hand. If there's some part of the problem that's your fault, you need to apologize to your role in the issue. Suggest resolving the problem offline via a phone call or emails. This can help bolster your online reputation and make it possible for you to work more intensively on the issue at hand.
Maintaining your reputation is essential to success. Occasionally years are required before a community will trust you, so use whatever you read from this guide to make that happen. Proceed proactively, and get things taken care of quickly so that they do not get out of control. Your swift attention to these matters is very likely to win over your client and keep your reputation compelling.
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