Opinion Archives - EMC UK https://emcuk.co.uk/category/opinion Where UK News Meets Clarity Fri, 27 Sep 2024 12:07:25 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://emcuk.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/favicon.png Opinion Archives - EMC UK https://emcuk.co.uk/category/opinion 32 32 New Book Explores Impact of Ideas on Our Lives https://emcuk.co.uk/opinion/new-book-explores-impact-of-ideas-on-our-lives?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-book-explores-impact-of-ideas-on-our-lives Fri, 27 Sep 2024 12:07:25 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=839 Nathan Murphy, a prominent figure in political theory and an entrepreneur, has released a thought-provoking new book titled The Ideas That Rule Us: How Other People’s Ideas Rule Our Lives and How to Change It. KIRKUS Reviews has praised the book as “a well-researched, thought-provoking reconsideration of society’s sacred cows,” making it a compelling resource [...]

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Nathan Murphy, a prominent figure in political theory and an entrepreneur, has released a thought-provoking new book titled The Ideas That Rule Us: How Other People’s Ideas Rule Our Lives and How to Change It. KIRKUS Reviews has praised the book as “a well-researched, thought-provoking reconsideration of society’s sacred cows,” making it a compelling resource for anyone seeking to understand the powerful influence of social environments on personal identity.

In his latest work, Murphy delves into the myriad ways that societal norms, ideologies, and pop culture impact decision-making, political affiliations, and consumer behaviour. By drawing on his extensive research across multiple disciplines—including politics, cognitive science, and sociology—he offers readers a relatable exploration of how external ideas shape individual lives.

Murphy’s background as the founder and lead researcher at Prepolitica, a research group dedicated to the science-driven development of political theory, enriches his insights in the book. He has previously invented, patented, and sold medical products, lobbied government officials for prison reform, and founded three technology companies. Additionally, he has built a substantial online presence, sold tens of thousands of books, and engaged in various creative pursuits, including rock climbing and DIY renovations.

In The Ideas That Rule Us, Murphy provides a comprehensive analysis of the influences that guide people’s beliefs and actions. He presents a multi-disciplinary perspective, meticulously weaving together findings from political and social research to foster a deeper understanding of the powerful ideas that govern societal behaviour. Through this exploration, Murphy aims to equip readers, particularly political activists, with the knowledge needed to navigate and influence the complex landscape of societal ideologies.

In the book, Murphy emphasises the importance of recognising how external influences shape personal identity and decision-making. He contends that many people are often unaware of the extent to which others’ ideas dictate their beliefs and choices. By shedding light on these hidden dynamics, Murphy hopes to inspire individuals to take control of their perspectives and actions, ultimately empowering them to effect change within their communities.

Feedback from early readers has been overwhelmingly positive. Patrick Sweeny, a Wall Street Journal best-selling author, described Murphy’s book as “a riveting journey into the history that shapes us and the decisions that define us.” Russell Max Simon, a political reporter and former press secretary, praised the work for offering “a bold new explanation for why politics and ideology work the way they do.”

For more information about Nathan Murphy and his book, readers can visit his official website, where a media kit is also available. The book is now available for purchase on Amazon, providing a crucial resource for those interested in the interplay between ideas and personal identity.

Murphy’s unique blend of experiences and insights positions him as a key voice in understanding the forces that shape our lives, making The Ideas That Rule Us a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of modern society.

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Are you a Kim Kardashian or a Steve Jobs in your professional life? https://emcuk.co.uk/opinion/are-you-a-kim-kardashian-or-a-steve-jobs-in-your-professional-life?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=are-you-a-kim-kardashian-or-a-steve-jobs-in-your-professional-life Sun, 15 Sep 2024 07:55:55 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=743 New research from HR solutions provider UKG has identified five distinct workplace personality types in the UK, offering insights into how employees operate and what they need from their managers. The study, which surveyed 2,000 full-time workers across various industries, highlights how managers can adapt their communication and leadership styles to support different types of [...]

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New research from HR solutions provider UKG has identified five distinct workplace personality types in the UK, offering insights into how employees operate and what they need from their managers. The study, which surveyed 2,000 full-time workers across various industries, highlights how managers can adapt their communication and leadership styles to support different types of employees, from the Visionary to the Go Getter.

The most common personality type, according to the study, is the Negotiator, representing 21% of the workforce. Negotiators are described as reliable, easy-going, and supportive team members who bring a diplomatic approach to group dynamics. High-profile figures such as Nelson Mandela and António Guterres are examples of this type.

UKG’s research revealed four other key workplace personalities: the Go Getter, the Visionary, the Thinker, and the Executive. Each type demonstrates specific traits that influence their approach to work and relationships with colleagues and managers.

The Go Getter, the least common personality type, is energetic, competitive, and often associated with a workaholic mentality. Go Getters thrive in fast-paced environments and prefer brief, direct communication, especially through instant messaging platforms like Teams or Slack. They make up a smaller portion of the workforce but bring a high level of drive to their teams.

In contrast, the Visionary, who shares traits with well-known innovators like Steve Jobs and James Dyson, excels at finding creative solutions to problems and exploring new ideas. Visionaries welcome all types of feedback but prefer one-on-one discussions where they can exchange ideas. According to the research, they make up 14% of the workforce, along with the Thinker and the Executive.

The Thinker, another 14% of the workforce, values structured communication and clear, actionable feedback. They appreciate flexibility, often choosing when to work collaboratively or independently based on their tasks. This personality type thrives in environments that allow for autonomy and space to reflect on decisions.

The Executive, also accounting for 14% of workers, is organised and decisive. Executives tend to prefer leadership roles and value structured communication. They are detail-oriented, focused on results, and often excel in roles where clear processes and efficiency are key.

Claire Lock, Vice President of HR International Markets at UKG, commented on the findings: “Managers are already aware of the different traits within their teams, but adapting workplace policies to meet everyone’s needs can be a challenge. Our findings highlight the importance of tailoring communication and feedback methods to ensure that employees feel supported in their development.”

Behavioural psychologist Donna Dawson, who analysed the survey data for UKG, identified the five personality types and their key characteristics. She stressed the importance of creating an environment where all personality types can thrive. “The insights provide managers with practical advice on how to communicate, offer feedback, and structure work for different employees, ensuring that everyone can perform at their best,” she said.

The report emphasises the importance of adaptability for managers in the evolving workplace, ensuring employees with diverse personality types are given the right conditions to flourish.

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Expert Tips for Storing Clothes While at University https://emcuk.co.uk/opinion/expert-tips-for-storing-clothes-while-at-university?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=expert-tips-for-storing-clothes-while-at-university Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:27:14 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=567 As the new university term approaches, students are gearing up for a fresh start. With limited space in student accommodation, efficient clothes storage is key. Online self-storage specialist SpareFoot has outlined essential tips for keeping out-of-season garments in prime condition. Declutter Before Storing Before diving into storage solutions, experts recommend starting with a wardrobe clear-out. [...]

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As the new university term approaches, students are gearing up for a fresh start. With limited space in student accommodation, efficient clothes storage is key. Online self-storage specialist SpareFoot has outlined essential tips for keeping out-of-season garments in prime condition.

Declutter Before Storing

Before diving into storage solutions, experts recommend starting with a wardrobe clear-out. Donating or selling items that are unlikely to be worn again not only frees up valuable space but also makes it easier to organise what’s left. A helpful rule is to part with clothes you haven’t worn since the last time they were stored. This approach ensures that only the most useful and beloved pieces are kept.

Clean Clothes Thoroughly

It might seem unnecessary to wash clothes that won’t be worn for months, but thorough cleaning is crucial. Residual scents from food or sweat can attract pests like moths, which can damage fabrics over time. Even faint odours can spread to other garments, compromising their freshness. Use a basic laundry detergent, avoiding heavily scented products, to ensure your clothes remain odour-free. Once washed, ensure that clothes are completely dry before packing, as moisture can lead to musty smells and mildew.

Opt for Vacuum-Sealed Bags or Airtight Containers

Vacuum-sealed bags and airtight plastic boxes are recommended for storing clothes. These options help maintain the condition of your garments and allow for more efficient use of space. To prevent any potential damp or plastic smells, place dryer sheets between layers of fabric. This simple trick keeps your clothes smelling fresh and ready to wear when the seasons change. For feather or down-filled items, such as coats, plastic boxes with secure lids are preferable. If space allows, hanging clothes in garment bags can be a better option, especially for items prone to wrinkling. This method helps avoid tight packing and reduces the need for ironing later.

Choose the Right Storage Location

While it may be tempting to store clothes in the attic or garage, these areas are not ideal due to their fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, which can damage clothing fibres and attract pests. Instead, consider storing clothes in more controlled environments such as on top of wardrobes, under the bed, or in a spare room. If attic or garage storage is unavoidable, ensure that bags are vacuum-sealed, and containers are airtight to protect your clothes from the elements.

Expert Advice from SpareFoot

A spokesperson from SpareFoot emphasised the importance of proper storage practices: “It might be tempting to quickly stuff your clothes into any convenient bag, but improper storage can lead to unpleasant surprises. Clothes may develop a permanent damp smell, lose their colour, or suffer damage from pests. Following these straightforward tips not only preserves your wardrobe but can save you from the expense of replacing damaged items.”

By implementing these strategies, students can ensure their clothes remain in excellent condition, ready for use when the seasons shift. Proper storage is an investment in maintaining the quality of your wardrobe and avoiding unnecessary costs in the future.

For more tips and advice on self-storage and managing your belongings while at university, visit SpareFoot’s website.

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70% of employers use social media to research job candidates – here’s how to make yours corporate-approved https://emcuk.co.uk/news/70-of-employers-use-social-media-to-research-job-candidates-heres-how-to-make-yours-corporate-approved?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=70-of-employers-use-social-media-to-research-job-candidates-heres-how-to-make-yours-corporate-approved Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:57:42 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=462 A recent survey revealed that 70% of employers utilise social networking sites to investigate job candidates, and among them, 57% have discovered content that led them to decide against hiring certain applicants. Whether you’re an avid poster or keep low-key, Guy Thornton, Founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, has compiled a list of pointers you should [...]

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A recent survey revealed that 70% of employers utilise social networking sites to investigate job candidates, and among them, 57% have discovered content that led them to decide against hiring certain applicants.
Whether you’re an avid poster or keep low-key, Guy Thornton, Founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, has compiled a list of pointers you should use to ensure your digital footprint won’t become detrimental to your job hunt.
1. Review and clean up your profiles
Go through any social media platforms you are on and delete any posts, photos, or comments that may be seen as unprofessional, offensive, or controversial. As you go through and vet your socials, remember to also look at your tagged photos and untap yourself or ask the user to delete any that do not reflect well on you.
2. Adjust your privacy settings
Adjusting your privacy settings so that only friends or connections can see your posts and personal information means you reduce the risk of employers looking at your profiles before or after a job interview.
Consider making some profiles, like LinkedIn, completely public and professional, while keeping others, like Facebook or Instagram, more private and personal.
3. Present yourself professionally
Even if you do make your social media profiles private, employers can still judge your profile photos and bios. With this in mind, you should always use professional-looking profile pictures and avoid overly casual or inappropriate images.
Similarly, with your bio, ensure the other profile information is up-to-date and reflects your professional identity.
4. Monitor your digital footprint
Whether you are on the hunt for a job, looking for a promotion, or even just wanting to maintain a professional appearance, it’s important to monitor your online presence continuously.
Periodically search for your name online to see what potential employers might find, and if you find anything you wouldn’t want them to see, remove it promptly.
It’s also wise to update your bio and any other information according to your latest role, new skills, and general career updates.
5. Separate personal and professional
If you’ve managed to secure your dream job, be mindful of giving out your private and more personal social media pages to other workplace professionals. Instead, create a platform with other like-minded career individuals on sites such as LinkedIn to avoid mixing business with pleasure.
It’s better to separate your professional social media profiles from more personal ones, to avoid any cross-over that may interfere with your corporate appearance.
For more information, visit https://www.practiceaptitudetests.com/.

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Influential Generations: Understanding the Consumer Behaviours of Gen Z and Millennials https://emcuk.co.uk/news/influential-generations-understanding-the-consumer-behaviours-of-gen-z-and-millennials?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=influential-generations-understanding-the-consumer-behaviours-of-gen-z-and-millennials Sun, 04 Aug 2024 10:11:59 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=443 A recent study by research consultancy Untold Insights, which surveyed 2,000 respondents across the US and UK, reveals striking similarities in the consumer behaviours of Gen Z and Millennials. Contrary to the popular belief that these generations have vastly different attitudes and preferences, the findings suggest that their consumption patterns are notably aligned. Both Gen [...]

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A recent study by research consultancy Untold Insights, which surveyed 2,000 respondents across the US and UK, reveals striking similarities in the consumer behaviours of Gen Z and Millennials. Contrary to the popular belief that these generations have vastly different attitudes and preferences, the findings suggest that their consumption patterns are notably aligned.

Both Gen Z and Millennials demonstrate a clear preference for short, easily digestible video content, such as Instagram Reels and TikTok. The study found that 46% of respondents from both generations watch these platforms daily, while 66% engage with them every day or every few days. This significant engagement presents a massive opportunity for product discovery, especially for new or small businesses. Interestingly, 21% of Millennials and 14% of Gen Z reported often purchasing from brands they had never heard of before, solely based on social media recommendations. This indicates that Millennials are at least as reliant on social media for shopping recommendations as Gen Z, if not more so.

The research highlights that both generations are focused on wellness and lifestyle upgrades, with social perception and image playing crucial roles in their lives. Categories such as fashion, makeup, dining, cooking, and fitness are particularly prominent, with Instagram Reels and TikTok serving as primary sources of information and inspiration for both groups.

When it comes to the length of digital content, the study shows that different types of media command varying levels of attention spans. For instance, entertainment streams and live sports have the highest tolerance for longer viewing times, while advertisements and reviews are consumed more quickly.

A notable trend identified in the study is the preference for utility over brand loyalty, a behaviour more pronounced among Millennials. Seventy-five per cent of Millennials and 60% of Gen Z respondents agreed with the statement, “I have no problem switching brands if I think it’s going to be a better option for me.” Moreover, over half of both groups expressed a willingness to purchase knock-off versions of brands instead of paying full price for the originals.

Ethical considerations also play a significant role in brand engagement. A higher percentage of Millennials, compared to Gen Z, reported they would stop buying from a brand if they discovered it was unethical. This indicates a stronger inclination among Millennials to hold brands accountable for their actions.

Adelynne Chao, Founder of Untold Insights, commented on the findings: “Our research has highlighted the importance of understanding the nuanced behaviours of these influential generations. While there are differences, the similarities are striking and hold significant implications for businesses. These findings underscore the need for marketers to focus on authenticity, convenience, and socially conscious branding, as these factors greatly influence both Gen Z and Millennials’ consumer behaviours.”

The report concludes that, despite some subtle differences, Gen Z and Millennials exhibit many overlapping traits and interests. It encourages businesses to recognise these similarities to create marketing strategies that resonate with both generations. By doing so, companies can achieve greater success and growth in today’s dynamic marketplace.

In summary, this study provides valuable insights into the behaviours and preferences of Gen Z and Millennials, challenging the notion that these generations are fundamentally different. Businesses are advised to leverage these insights to tailor their marketing approaches, ensuring they meet the expectations and values of these influential consumer groups.

For more information, visit https://www.untoldinsights.com.

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Rising Popularity of Side Hustles: How to Earn £500 Extra a Month https://emcuk.co.uk/business/rising-popularity-of-side-hustles-how-to-earn-500-extra-a-month?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rising-popularity-of-side-hustles-how-to-earn-500-extra-a-month Sat, 03 Aug 2024 08:20:32 +0000 https://emcuk.co.uk/?p=438 Global interest inside hustles has surged dramatically, with searches for the term skyrocketing by 2,850% since records began. This trend reached its peak in January 2023, as individuals worldwide seek additional income streams to bolster their financial stability. Digital marketing experts, Authority Hacker, have delved into Google Trends data to reveal this significant increase in [...]

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Global interest inside hustles has surged dramatically, with searches for the term skyrocketing by 2,850% since records began. This trend reached its peak in January 2023, as individuals worldwide seek additional income streams to bolster their financial stability.

Digital marketing experts, Authority Hacker, have delved into Google Trends data to reveal this significant increase in interest since October 2004. Their analysis highlights the growing number of people exploring side hustles as a means to earn supplementary income, potentially enough to cover substantial expenses such as mortgage payments.

In response to this heightened interest, Authority Hacker has outlined a method to generate an additional £500 per month. Their strategy centres on building a profitable blog from scratch, a process that includes purchasing a domain name, publishing initial content, attracting free web traffic, and eventually monetising the audience.

Mark Webster, Co-Founder of Authority Hacker, explains, “Building an authority website can be one of the best ways to address the cost-of-living crisis and generate regular, monthly revenue. Although substantial upfront effort is required, the satisfaction of earning money from a website you’ve created is immense.”

Webster emphasises that creating blogs and websites that attract free online traffic from Google searches, with the goal of monetising through ads and affiliate commissions, has become more accessible than ever in 2023. He states, “The idea is to write about topics that people are searching for on Google, generate free traffic, place ads on your website, and get paid for displaying those ads. Once you establish the traffic, income generation becomes automated.”

Steps to Building a Successful Blog

Authority Hacker has outlined a five-step approach to building a successful affiliate site, enabling individuals to make money while they sleep. The key components include:

Step 1: Identify Your Passion

Choose a topic you are passionate about, as you will be researching and writing about it extensively. For example, a pet lover might start a blog on pet care, while a parent could share parenting tips. A gardening enthusiast might focus on gardening advice. Your excitement for the topic will drive your commitment to the blog.

Step 2: Buy a Domain Name

Secure a domain name that reflects your blog’s theme. Websites like GoDaddy, 123Reg, or Google Domains can facilitate this process. Examples include lauralovespets.com or 101gardeningtips.com.

Step 3: Build the Website

After purchasing a domain, you will need hosting services, such as GoDaddy, Hostinger, or Siteground. Install WordPress, a free content management system, to publish your content. Initially, aim to write four to five articles per week, targeting popular search keywords in your niche using tools like Ubersuggest, SEMrush, or Ahrefs.

Step 4: Market Your Website

To generate free traffic from Google, obtain backlinks from other websites. Engage with other bloggers, comment on their posts, and build relationships within your industry. Services like HARO or Featured.com can help you gain coverage and links on mainstream news sites. Aim for two to three new placements and links per week in the first six months to signal Google about the credibility of your content.

Step 5: Monetise Your Website

Once your site attracts around 1,000 daily users, typically within six to ten months, it’s time to monetise. The two primary methods are:

Adverts: Utilise ad networks like Google AdSense, which automatically places ads on your site. Alternatively, consider services like Ezoic, Media Vine, Clickio, AdThrive, or Freestar. You can expect to earn between £3 and £20 per 1,000 visitors. For instance, 5,000 daily readers could yield between £15 and £100 per day.

Affiliate Revenue: Promote relevant products through affiliate links. For example, a blog on dog care might recommend pet products, earning a commission on sales. Popular affiliate networks include Amazon Affiliates, Awin, Clickbank, and Rakuten.

Success Stories

Authority Hacker highlights several successful sites using this model:

  • Making a Millennial Millionaire: A business blog generating £2,791 monthly from ads, with 15,122 users.
  • Salt Money: A tech and finance site earning £2,925 per month from ads and affiliate sales, with 77,949 users.
  • The Tech Education: An entertainment blog making £3,005 monthly from ads, with 92,814 users.
  • de hippe vegetarier: A Dutch food and drink blog earning £6,799 monthly from ads and sponsored collaborations, with 136,022 users.
  • Down Redbud Drive: A home and garden blog generating £3,228 monthly from ads and affiliate sales, with 60,107 users.

These examples illustrate the potential of turning a passion into a profitable online venture. Webster encourages exploring this opportunity, which has a low barrier to entry and can significantly diversify income streams. “If you do everything right and take massive action, your passive income can match your salary within a year and change your life,” he concludes.

For more information, please visit https://www.authorityhacker.com/.

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