Biz Bits
biz bits on the go
The latest essential buys for executives.
Carry On
Dell Laptop
$3,500 www.dell.com
This slick new laptop from Dell will be a hit with travelers who go for functionality as much as appearance. The slim, fl at-panel computer has a carrying handle built into the actual laptop frame—plus there’s a 20-inch screen, eight speakers with a subwoofer, a detachable Bluetooth keyboard, webcam and slot-load DVD drive. It’s the perfect notebook for easy mobility and all-round performance.
Bookshelf
Revved!
By Harry Paul & Ross Reck, Ph.D. (McGraw-Hill, $19.95)
“Excitement is contagious. So is passion. If you’re fired up about what you do, chances are that those around you will be too!” Revved! is packed full of inspirational excerpts like this one—and what results is a book that successfully motivates managers to pump up the workplace and achieve the best from their staff . The book tells the story of Katie, a manager with a lot on her mind. By allowing her personal troubles to aff ect her behavior in the office, she soon loses the respect of her employees. It is through her journey to get back on track that we learn the three key principles of the book: win them over, blow them away and keep them revved. A powerful read.
Small Wonder
Pocket PC
$1,800 www.sonystyle.com
Full-sized computer performance is nicely pared down with the new Sony VAIO UX Micro PC, boasting a 4½-inch-wide screen and hiding a miniature integrated keyboard. The computer incorporates Sony’s SmartWi technology, so wireless WWAN, LAN and Bluetooth are all available, plus the UX model has two built-in cameras: one for VoIP communication, the other for taking photos. Integrated biometrics ensure security without the need for passwords, and G-Sensor shock protection preserves the unit’s hard drive. Proving good things come in small packages.
Hold All
Laptop Bag
$125 www.spireusa.com
Laptop bags aren’t usually as simple or as easily portable as this Zoom backpack. The bag was deemed so practical it was shown being used by the US Secret Service in the movie First Daughter. Ergonomic, die-cut shoulder straps along with extra beefy padding in the computer section ensure maximum comfort, while the hidden MP3 player pocket and other interior sections keep all your other belongings handy. The mobile computing geeks at Spire USA prove themselves yet again.
Talking to Michael Masterson, builder of wealth.
CEO Top Tips
Automatic Wealth for Grads . . . and Anyone Else Just Starting Out
Michael Masterson (Wiley, $22.95)
Graduating can be a daunting time, but this book has plenty of practical steps for grads to take to ensure they start building wealth while they are still young. Here, author Michael Masterson shares his top strategies:
Pick a great career Frequently changing jobs when you are first starting out will only set you back in your goal to achieve wealth.
Become an invaluable employee To earn significantly higher raises than the average person, you must perform at a significantly higher level than your co-workers. “So long as your work performance is ordinary, you can’t expect anything more than an ordinary salary,” says Masterson.
Start to invest this year, and invest more every year until you’re rich. You might think that sounds easier said than done, but it is actually easy to do. By investing 15 percent of your income starting with your first paycheck, and getting slightly higher than average raises, you can achieve wealth quickly. Share an apartment. Th is won’t be like sharing your cramped dorm room in college. “Assuming that you start out at around $30,000 a year, it is important that you spend no more than around $750 in rent per month.”
Invest in real estate. Next to owning a business, investing in real estate gives you the highest potential return on your investment. “That’s because you don’t need a lot of money to get started, and you can use your youth—the many years you have to let your investments appreciate—to work in your favor.”
Become a “chicken entrepreneur.” Start your own business on the side while keeping your job with another company. “It allows you to extend your wealth and business experience while working under a safety net, in case things don’t work out,” says Masterson.
The Closing Bell by Jack Guinan