Patrick Windley

What Charities Should You Not Donate To?

Published on: 03/24/2023

It’s the holiday season, which means you’re likely to receive an endless stream of charity donation requests. Whether it’s from friends and family or online crowdfunding platforms, you want to make sure that your money goes where it’s most needed.

That means finding a charity that aligns with your values and can be trusted. But it’s also important to choose one that will be efficient with your gift.

Unrequested merchandise isn't just unwelcome; it can clog supply chains and disrupt disaster operations. It can also divert aid workers' attention and cause them to waste valuable time on other critical tasks.

Federal law prohibits companies from sending unordered merchandise you didn't order, but it allows them to send you free samples and other items that are clearly marked as "free." Charities are allowed to mail greeting cards and other products asking for donations.

The best way to handle unsolicited merchandise is to treat it as a free gift, then use or dispose of it in your own way. That doesn't mean you can't return it if you aren't satisfied, but you should never be asked to pay for it or get an invoice. The law of the state in which you live will help determine your rights and obligations in this regard. If you think you've been swindled, you should contact the state Attorney General to learn more about your legal options.

High-pressure solicitations involve trying to get you to donate immediately, without giving you a chance to think it over or research the charity. Some charities will even try to pressure you into donating in cash by wire transfer.

These tactics are not ethical and may cause you to lose your tax deduction. They can also be a threat to your safety and security.

The best way to avoid these types of scams is to ask questions and check the information provided by the charity or its professional fundraiser. You should always find out what the charity does, how much it costs to operate and whether your donation will be tax deductible.

However, despite their popularity, research on public donation solicitations has received little attention. In particular, few studies have studied consumer feelings evoked by public donation requests. Specifically, little is known about how consumers feel about their social image in response to public donation solicitations (Argo et al., 2006).

When it comes to donating to charity, you want to be sure you’re supporting a reputable group that spends enough on its programs to actually help people. That’s why some private watchdog groups, such as CharityWatch, Charity Navigator and the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, grade charities based on spending standards and other procedures.

Bennett Weiner, chief operating officer of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, advises that before you make a donation, check it out with one of these watchdogs to see if it’s a good organization. You can also research a charity yourself by reading its reports and talking with its executives.

Some high-profile charities have been tarnished by financial scandals. For example, the Central Asia Institute (CAI), founded by Greg Mortenson, author of the bestselling Three Cups of Tea, was recently in the spotlight when 60 Minutes interviewed CharityWatch president Daniel Borochoff about its finances.

The path to becoming a product manager

Published On: 12-28-2022

You need to meet specific requirements and have relevant experience to work as a product manager. The most important qualification for becoming a product manager is experience. It would be best if you also worked on specific soft skills and the above listed talents. Smooth talents are more transferable across businesses and enable you to work in various sectors.

You should be aware of the position's responsibilities if you are considering a career as a product manager. Additionally, you'll need to build the abilities necessary for the position. Cooperation between individuals, groups, and organizations is essential in product management. You'll need to cultivate soft skills like communication, empathy, and strategic thinking to succeed.

Your resume should include information about your education and work history and a list of your strongest suit. This might assist you in developing a complete portfolio and differentiating yourself from other applicants. It's critical to remember that hiring managers evaluate your CV and interview performance to discover how well you meet the organization's demands. It's challenging for many recruiters to fill positions in the product management industry. This is because many occupations demand a diverse skill set that isn't easily accessible.

The skill set of every product manager must include soft skills. They can assist a PM in resolving disputes, gaining support for a product's vision, and collaborating successfully with teams of engineers and other experts.

A PM's soft skills can also aid in overcoming obstacles. Every stage of the product's life cycle, from conception to launch, requires practical problem-solving abilities. A critical competency for a PM is the capacity to analyze data for optimization and decision-making.

Getting to know your future superiors is one of the finest things you can do if you're looking for a job as a product manager. The greater your ability to make the most excellent pitch and obtain the position of your dreams, the more you will understand them. To acquire the good things, you need to be a well-rounded someone who can multitask and knows your coworkers. Additionally, you must maintain composure when being questioned by a skeptical CEO. Remember that they are not there to serve as your poop deck. They are there to support your long-term success instead.

Product managers play a significant role in the creation and upkeep of goods. They have to manage engineering teams, comprehend the market, and interact with various stakeholders. A PM needs a wide variety of soft and hard talents to succeed.

It's simple to overlook that top product managers also have excellent, empathetic listening skills. It is advisable to take a few hours out of your schedule to learn as much as you can about the culture and kool-kat of your potential workplace.

The term "product management" is often used in the IT and technological industries. Although it might not be the most glamorous profession, it is not as terrifying as it would seem. The benefits are extensive, the money is fair, and the hours are flexible. Here are some of the most typical criteria and advice for people seeking product management jobs.

The product management industry is quite competitive. The field is expanding as well. A potential employer might need to be persuaded that you are worth their time and money. Many organizations utilize recruiting agencies to woo candidates and identify the best fit. Most job openings are posted on specialized websites, although generic employment websites might also be helpful.

You must meet specific requirements to work as a product manager. The two that are most significant are experience and knowledge. However, you could also possess soft talents like teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.

The duties of a product manager include locating and evaluating new markets, creating a roadmap, and organizing the launch of a product. These positions call for a solid grasp of business procedures and analytics.

Typically, product managers must hold a bachelor's degree. Additionally, they have to have prior experience working in various positions. They may have a background in engineering or marketing, for instance. For the majority of product management roles, two years of work experience is required. However, many employers choose applicants with appropriate credentials, such as an MBA or marketing training.

Trying to balance work and family.

Published on : 12-05-2022

It's important to find a good balance between work and family. But it's not always simple. You can get your work and family life in order, and there are some things you can do to help.

Relationships with stakeholders can be hard to manage. The best way to handle relationships with stakeholders is to talk to them. People can speak, write, or talk informally. Each method, however, has its pros and cons.

It might be best to use both written and spoken words in some situations. If you want to persuade a new client, you might like to send an official email. On the other hand, if you want to convince a community member, it might be better to meet with them in person. With a face-to-face meeting, you can find out what each stakeholder thinks and what solution they prefer. This keeps the stakeholder from feeling like a "second-class" participant.

Part of managing a project is figuring out who the important people are. These people can be important employees inside the company, funders, or government officials. Everyone with a stake in the project wants it to succeed. You can help these people reach their goals if you understand their needs and find ways to motivate them.

Being honest with your boss is one of the most important things you can do to set boundaries. It's also important to tell your boss if you don't like the limits they've set for you. Then, you and your boss can work together to make rules that work for you.

You could also ask your coworkers for help setting limits. For instance, if you don't check your email after work, you can tell your coworkers not to check theirs either. You can also set a time limit for how long you talk on the phone.

Setting limits can help you balance work and family without stress or burn out. But it's not simple. To set limits, you have to be honest and understand. You should talk to a professional if you have trouble setting or keeping boundaries. The right people can help you make a plan for balancing work and life that works for you.

Finding a good balance work and family life can be hard. You can take steps to ease the stress, which is good news. The key is ensuring you and your family get enough time and attention. It's also smart to be aware of your schedule and where you are. A good rule of thumb is to think about your kids for a few minutes daily. In the long run, this will pay off.

A smart place to start is by asking trusted family members for help. This can be as easy as bringing them to the office to pick up the kids or as hard as hiring a nanny for a day or two. The best part is that you'll be able to spend quality time together without sacrificing your work schedule.

List of Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Published On:11/17/2022


There are many enjoyable things to do in Colombia, whether you're a visitor, a native, or just curious about the country's history and culture. After years of turmoil caused by rebels and terrorist attacks, Colombia again welcomes visitors to its newly secured tourism destinations. Some of the top attractions in Colombia are listed here.

Any history buff would enjoy a trip to Los Nevados National Park. Ibague, the capital and largest city in Tolima, is home to the park. The area is known for its tranquility and picturesque white homes.

Bagh-e Dolat Abad, established in 1750, is a serene garden. A long pool sits amongst the trees, and the interior is decked out in bright patterns.

Get out of the city and explore some old colonial settlements. To spend a weekend away from Bogota, consider going to Aguaduas. As a fascinating Botero museum, a huge park and lake may be found there.

La Boquilla is a fantastic place to spend a summer vacation. There's a charming waterfront community with a fantastic open-air market. As a bonus, the town is home to some excellent dining establishments and coffee shops.

If you want to learn about the state's culture, Oaxaca, the capital, is a fantastic spot to do so. Also, as the state capital and cultural hub of Oaxaca, it's a fantastic destination for art lovers. The Museo de la Tertulia houses an interactive art museum that art lovers will enjoy. The Museo Caliwood houses a collection of things related to Colombia's film industry and is worth a look.

Stop into the Museo Nacional if you're curious about Colombian heritage. You can learn about Colombia's past here; there's even a section devoted to the country's film industry.

Botero, a man of great significance in Colombian history, is the subject of a permanent display in the Museo de Antioquia. The Karim Khani Nook is also worth a look; it was the home of the Zand dynasty's creator.

If you aren't interested in any of the city's other tourist spots, a trip to San Yazd's castle is a must. You can take a bus or navigate your way there by car. Desert alleyways provide a peaceful refuge for tourists, and the castle is an outstanding example of adobe construction. The castle can be found on the private island of Isla Fuerte, a wonderful spot to unwind for a few days.

The music scene in Ibague is fantastic. This city has a music event every year. Some of the best artists in the country come to perform here. You may unwind in this beautiful setting and travel to nearby Los Nevados National Park. Several archaeological sites are within easy traveling distance of the town.

Information about the Ironman Triathlon

Published on:- 10-28-2022

Long-distance triathlon competitions include the Ironman Triathlon. It covers a total of 140.6 miles including a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle ride, and a marathon 26.22-mile run. Here are some details regarding the Ironman Triathlon and what you may anticipate it to accomplish for those who are unfamiliar with it. You should be interested in endurance sports and physical fitness if you wish to participate in this event. But if you're not sure whether you're up for the task, stop searching now.

The Ironman Triathlon is a demanding task that needs significant commitment. A minimum of two years of training is necessary for success. You must regularly monitor your performance since the training is hard. Long-distance swimming and the Ironman distance are both taxing and difficult.

The event was covered by Wide World of Sports, a television program, which debuted in Honolulu in 1978. It entails 2.4 miles of swimming off Dig-Me Beach, 112 miles of biking across lava fields, and 26.2 kilometers of running in Kona, Hawaii. This race is the hardest competition in the world, and competitors must put in a lot of training to win.

The first leg of an Ironman race typically lasts two hours and twenty minutes and begins at seven in the morning, local time. The athletes then have to finish the bike leg by 5:30 p.m., followed by the last leg, a marathon run, which takes about the same amount of time as the swim leg.

On February 18, 1978, the inaugural Hawaiian Iron Man Triathlon took place. The occasion was given John Collins' name since his shipyard coworkers had dubbed him the "Iron Man." The event is now known as "his" in honor of his endurance running. He also encouraged many others to take part in the activity.

Physically challenged athletes with impairments are welcome to compete in Ironman competitions. They must, however, fulfill the same standards as other competitors to take part. The body needs time to adjust to extended periods of physical exertion. It involves more than simply pushing oneself hard; it also entails being acclimated to continuously moving, eating, and drinking. This will be challenging for many people, but the athletes' health depends on it.

Athletes must participate in qualifying events to be eligible for the Ironman World Championship. These occasions take place all over the globe, including in the US, Japan, and the Canary Islands. The top 50 athletes in the world who are male are eligible to participate in the tournament. The World Championship champion is given free entry into the competition for the next five years.

The Big Island eventually hosted the Ironman after initially taking place on Oahu. It subsequently developed into one of the most well-known endurance competitions in the whole globe. The Ironman has expanded. There are more than 260 events in 44 nations with more than 600,000 participants annually. As a result of its popularity, Ironman has become one of the most valuable sports brands in the world. The Dalian Wanda Group, a Chinese company, currently owns the event.

The festival was relocated to the Big Island in October 1982. Its new moniker, Ironman, has made it the most challenging triathlon in the world. Many believe it to be the most difficult athletic event. The creation of the Ironman, however, is the subject of several urban legends, one of which is that it was the brainchild of an inebriated couple. In reality, John and Judy Collins, a mother and son team, created the triathlon's original route. The pair took part in one of the very first triathlon competitions ever held. They then presented the concept to a swim club coach in the area, and the Coronado Optimist Club Triathlon was formed. The competition is now among the oldest triathlons in history.

An Iron Man triathlon, as the name implies, is a challenging competition in which participants must finish three legs: a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle ride, and a marathon 26.22-mile run. These competitions are staged all around the globe by the World Triathlon Corporation. You may sign up for either the full Ironman event or any of the shorter, 70.3-mile Ironman competitions.

The average Ironman race lasts 16–17 hours. Usually, the swim phase takes at least two hours and twenty minutes. Usually, it takes eight to 10 hours to finish the bike part.

Insurance for Secure Travels: Protecting Yourself Abroad with Peace of Mind

Published on : 09-06-2022

When it comes to traveling, there are a number of different things you can do to keep yourself safe and secure. Reading reviews written by other tourists is one of the most effective methods. You could also talk to people who live in the area to find out if there are any safety problems there. In addition, the Department of State maintains a program that can assist you in staying safe while traveling. You have the option of enrolling in this program in order to receive up-to-date information regarding concerns raised by tourists in countries all over the world. In addition to this, make sure that the container that your prescription medicines are stored in is safe.

In addition, travelers can utilize the Safe Travels Stamp to assess whether or not a company has implemented health and hygiene practices that are on par with international standards. After the implementation of the necessary health measures, qualified establishments will be able to display the Safe Travels Stamp. AITO is for the Travel Industry Alliance Organization, whereas CMVT stands for the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Taking precautions to avoid becoming ill while traveling is another smart option, especially if you are going to a nation with a high incidence of disease. If you are at a greater risk of becoming ill, you should heed the guidance provided by your local and state health departments regarding the preventative measures you should take while traveling. When you are flying, it is imperative that you comply with the requirements of the airline.

The health insurance plans offered by Safe Travels International can assist you in avoiding monetary and medical difficulties while you are away from home, regardless of whether you are traveling for business or pleasure. This insurance policy will pay for medical expenses incurred in locations outside than your own nation, such as those in Europe, Canada, or Australia. In addition to this, the insurance offers specialized benefits for people who are living with chronic diseases. In addition to that, it provides coverage for pre-existing medical issues. Depending on the type of protection you require, you can get this insurance for a period of anywhere between 5 and 364 days.

How to Determine the Most Efficient Charity to Support

Published On: 08-08-2022

Transparency, which is vital to the general public, may be used to identify the most effective charities. Donations from respectable organizations should be utilized to aid displaced individuals. Good-rated nonprofits spend more than 75 percent of their budgets on programming. Likewise, charities with poor ratings are frequently ineffective. Verify that the charity has been examined independently by watchdog organisations such as CharityWatch in order to prevent giving to an organization that fails to achieve its financial obligations.

There are several methods to select a charity. First, do a complete investigation of the organization. This will guarantee that your contribution goes to the most deserving cause. You may also select the most effective charity based on its work efficiency. Some charitable organizations spend more money on wages and administration than on activities. Additionally, you may examine the charity's track record to see how much of the money it earns goes into its activities.

Consider donating to many charity together. Giving more to a single organization will have a greater impact than giving to several smaller ones. In addition, funds are manageable and successful since they pool resources to identify extraordinary giving opportunities. These funds are vetted by reputable charity assessors and grant-making professionals. A fund distributes the cash to several organizations, maximizing their collective influence. A fund offers several benefits.

Where their money is spent is typically less visible at the bigger organizations. A large organization is more likely to allocate funds to disaster assistance, which is often less successful than public health projects. However, it is probable that huge organizations have a more broad goal and lack the openness to reveal all of their expenditures. Nonetheless, some of these groups merit funding. By selecting the most efficient charity, you might find a variety of great causes to support.

Some NGOs are likewise dedicated to addressing global challenges. For example, the Global Fund for Women aims to empower women and protect their fundamental human rights. The Global Fund for Women has financed over 90,000 water projects throughout the globe. In over 45 countries, Action Against Hunger helps combat hunger and various kinds of malnutrition. Supporters of these groups are likely to be happier and have a stronger sense of community.

Donating to nonprofits is an excellent way to give back to the community. Even a modest gift may have a tremendous impact. The efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a charity's initiatives are two crucial indicators of its efficiency. Donations should be made to the most effective organizations, regardless of whether they generate money for mental health awareness or the world's poorest people. If you are uncertain about where to give, you should investigate crowdfunding sites.

Giving is not restricted to monetary gifts. Donating time or products is another great method of giving back. However, many individuals question if it is more effective to offer time as opposed to money. The experts at WalletHub have created a calculator to help you decide the most effective form of gift. Continue reading if you're seeking for the greatest charity to give to! They will assist you in making the best decision.

Furthermore, national donation data reflect intriguing demographic trends. The PSID poll reveals, for instance, that New Englanders give the smallest percentage of their income to charity, yet are among the most active. These results may explain the exceptional generosity of Americans. And it may possibly reveal the causes of these people. If you wish to give to charity that enhance the lives of people throughout the world, you should investigate this study.

Since its founding in 1877, the American Humane Society has been active for more than a century. Your contributions assist their efforts to provide permanent homes for mistreated and abandoned animals. It also encourages human-animal relationships. The Alzheimer's Association is also an excellent option. The American Humane Foundation supports immunotherapy research and patient care. In addition to supporting public education projects, the group invests 88 cents of every dollar given into its activities.

    What Does Product Management Look Like in Practice?

    Published on: 06-14-2022


    According to Patrick Windley, to answer the question, "What is an example of product management?" we must first consider the situation at hand. The product we're developing must solve a market problem or pain point. Product managers must think beyond the box in order to succeed. They must investigate the complete addressable market and decide who might be willing to pay for a different solution. To put it another way, they need to figure out if they can earn a profit utilizing a different strategy.

    Product management's objectives are to increase sales, market share, and profit margins. To build a product that consumers desire and is profitable, product managers must integrate the efforts of teams, data, procedures, and business systems. It's important to keep in mind that every product has a lot of moving elements. This is why having the correct tools is critical for a successful product. Here are a few of the most typical goods that require product management.

    The process of developing a product begins with a concept for the ultimate product. The final product must then be developed by a team of specialists. A corporation must determine its strategy, produce the product, and market it to the correct individuals during the development phase. A thorough grasp of the target market and client personas is required for each of these processes. This aids in the identification of the consumer base's characteristics and the development of a strategy to make the product more appealing to these customers.

    In addition to Patrick Windley, product managers don't get to relax after a product launch. After all, now isn't the time to unwind. They should organize product retrospective meetings to look back on the entire process and learn from it. They'll make mistakes if they don't. So, let's look at product management in more detail. Keep in mind that your team's success is at stake. So, if you want to be a product manager, prepare yourself and don't make any mistakes.

    A product manager is responsible for a variety of tasks, including market research, development, and defect management. A product manager must make judgments regarding the new product's development and launch plan in addition to choosing the ultimate product. They should also collaborate closely with the development team to ensure that product owners can deliver on their promises. If the goal of the product manager is to create a lucrative product, the final result must be a positive customer experience.

    It is critical to have a method in place for addressing feedback while developing a new product. Customer feedback should be recorded, and the individual who gave it should be contacted. It is vital to follow up since it demonstrates that the customer's input was valued. Exit interviews are a great approach to find out about a product's problems and inadequacies, as well as potential challenges or disconnects in the product-market fit.

    The roots of contemporary product management may be traced back to the United States in the early 1930s. Neil McElroy, a junior executive at Proctor & Gamble, coined the phrase "product management" to describe the current method.

    Patrick Windley believes that, a product manager is an important part of a business's success. He or she is in charge of the company's strategy, technology, and customer service. A product manager's responsibilities are extensive and varied. A product manager is responsible for seeing a product through its entire life cycle. The manager must be familiar with the lifetime of the customer and how they engage with the product. Product managers are often in charge of designing a product's strategy, while the project manager is in charge of overseeing the product's development.

    What is a product management example? Product managers want a system for managing the backlog and ensuring a steady supply of new ideas. To stay on schedule, they must be able to interact with stakeholders and other teams. That's where project management software comes in. These tools are essential for product managers, especially when it comes to managing goods. In product management, these tools may be quite useful.