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Nov 19th, 2008
Green living is not something new, but it is a trend that is now at the forefront of our societal consciousness. As the price of energy continues to increase, living green is not only something people are doing for its ethical reasons, but for practical reasons as well. Now there are more options than ever before when it comes to green building materials that are not only great for the environment, but for your pocketbook as well.
1. Green Roofing Options: There are so many options available these days when it comes to “green” roofing. Some manufacturers are using recycled materials to mimic the look of wood or slate shingles. There are highly reflective roofs, which redirected the sunlight and reduce the energy burden place on a home’s cooling system. Another growing phenomenon is the truly “green” roof, where a waterproof barier is put on the roof, then covered with soil, and grass and plants grow on the rooftop as an added layer of insulation.
2. Green Paint: Standard paints available on the market are full of chemicals that release over time into your home. Not only that, but paint production significantly impacts the environment in a negative way. Organic paints are growing in popularity, as are homemade paints. Finding more sustainable ways to finish your home’s interior will help lessen your impact on the environment.
3. Green Insulation: Insulation is an inherently green product, since the ultimate goal of insulation products is to conserve energy and improve air quality within the home. Many manufacturers of insulation have switched to recycled materials for making insulation. Recycled denim, newspaper, and fiberglass are hot trends in the market. These recycled items are treated with far less harmful chemicals and work better than traditional insulation.
4. Green Flooring: Green flooring options abound, from bamboo to recycled cellulose, and even cork. There is also a growing market for reclaiming materials from old structures and reusing them in newer homes. Linoleum is made from flax seed oil and is very eco friendly. Tiles made from recycled metal, as well as glass, is another growing market.
5. Green Plumbing: Water conservation is of the utmost importance, especially when considering the global warming phenomenon. Manufacturers of plumbing products are constantly developing newer, more effective fixtures to reduce water flow and maximize efficiency. Another trend in green plumbing is the tankless water heater, which is extremely effective and has less maintenance issues than a traditional water heater.
Posted by
Site Administrator in
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Nov 19th, 2008
The difference between Gen Y professionals, or millennials, and their older office counterparts can sometimes be glaringly obvious and at other times far less subtle. One thing that people in the professional world do recognize, however, is that there are many differences in the way that millennials approach problems, work with others, and communicate, among many other things. How can millennials bridge the unspoken gap between themselves and their older colleagues and supervisors? What follows is a short list of traits millennials can infuse into their interoffice rapport to smooth the rough edges.
Be Adaptable
Although many millennials have gotten to where they are somewhat on their own terms through hard work and perseverance, it is important to understand where other people are coming from as well. Respecting older colleagues and understanding office politics can go a long way in making sure you don’t step on anyone’s toes. Use your powers of observation and adapt where necessary. Remember, you have a different skill set than many of your elders, and may be viewed as a threat for various reasons.
Be Available
In short, don’t shut people out. It is extremely important that your colleagues and, moreover, your boss, know that you are available and appreciative of your position. Opening up yourself or freeing some time for discussing important issues and concerns is of vital importance in the workplace, and sometimes people don’t want to do this via email. Although you may be good at multitasking, your colleagues may not be, so make yourself available to them once in a while as well and be willing to help them out, especially with technological matters.
Be Communicative
Whether through email or in person, hone your communication skills and conduct yourself in a professional manner. Put aside your jargon and colloquialisms and adopt an office personality. Be professional and courteous, keeping in mind that conversations are two-way streets, and that involves listening. Being a good communicator relies on your ability to convey your thoughts in a meaningful way, as well as actively listening. If you aren’t paying attention, you could miss something very important.
Be Patient
Not everyone can pick up new technology and run with it like a millennial can. Many older office professionals take time to get used to a new operating system or database software, especially if it’s proprietary. If someone asks for help, be willing to do so and expect it to take some time to sink in. Although you are able to pick up new applications and continue texting your way through the day, all while completing your workload doesn’t mean that everyone else can. Remember that patience is a virtue.
Be Indispensible
If you follow all of the above advice, in conjunction with utilizing your skill set to the highest degree possible, you will soon find yourself as an integral and therefore indispensible part of the office or company. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be who you are, but everyone has to make compromises in the work world. Establishing and maintaining your interoffice rapport will only serve to enhance your image and your skills will be able to shine through even more so.
