Illegal Immigration Is Up.....

A report recently ran citing that illegal immigration is up in this country while the number of deportations are down. This is a DHS issue, of course, because it involves undocumented people entering into the country without any real record of who they are and what their possible intentions are. For the most part, people entering the country illegally are looking for work but we still have to take this report seriously. With New Year’s even almost upon us, security in this country tightens because there will be many parities hosted with large gatherings.

Jeh Johnson of the DHS recently spoke to reporters about the increase in illegal immigration. An administration official said the drop in deportations was at least partially due to the surge of illegal immigrants from Central America, who require detention, flights and travel documents, which makes them more expensive to deport versus the cost to deport illegal Mexicans, who can usually be quickly sent back across the land border.

The official also said part of the problem is that so-called “sanctuary city” localities are increasingly refusing to turn immigrants over to federal authorities for deportation. Homeland Security said localities refused 10,182 different requests from federal agents to hold illegal immigrants the agents wanted to pick up for deportation. (Washington Times)
Regardless if the numbers are slightly up or slightly down, the problem remains and will be carried into 2015 as an issue this country has yet to resolve. In fact, I don’t believe there is a “one size fits all” solution right now to address this problem. I’ve said several times on this blog that there has to be a series of protocols implemented but the ability for the DHS to look at illegal immigrants on a case-by-case basis before deciding if they should be deported or provided with an option to apply for citizenship. Either way, this is certainly an issue I will continue to address in the New Year.

2015 will be interesting for us as a country and from a homeland security perspective. I look forward to covering these topics (and more) for all of you in the future. This said, I will be taking a break from the blog to celebrate the holidays- returning with a post on Friday, January 26th.

Twyla N. Garrett

Email is Ruining Business, Here’s Why!

Many people believe answering emails immediately is a good thing. After all, doing this displays how responsive and customer service orientated you are, right? Wrong. The truth is, study after study has been done on the immediate emailed response and if it is actually a good business practice. It turns out, it isn’t.

Constant mobile or desktop emails takes away from actual productivity and creativity. Many studies recommend you only option to check email three times a day and you shouldn’t ever host it on your smartphone device. If someone needs to talk, then can call or text you to setup a time.

Emailing can also create project distractions and overcomplicate tasks. Nothing beats being productive more than taking short breaks for an inspiring walk or actually doing the work. So, this week try to keep emails in check by only checking them three times a day.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Business Apps that YOU must have!

Business owners are always seeking ways to improve their lives and organize tasks. I've compiled, as my own Valentine's Day treat for you, the best business apps out there!

#1. UberConference.
Solve the conference call nightmare! This app puts faces to names. You can actually know who is talking when using this app, which is a common problem with paid and free conference calling services.

#2. Evernote.
If you manage projects with several team members, this app is for you! Why? All the people who are involved with working on a project are able to place their notes, drafts and research - even audio clips and photos - into one big notebook. And, there are permission settings to ensure projects are not manipulated improperly.

#3. Nimble
Nimble will make your sales force cry, in a good way! This app pulls all clients', and potential clients', social media info and puts it in one place. Now, you can gain access and info as to what the opinions of your clients are and their likes and dislikes. This helps sales people close deals, compete and gain a competitive edge.

I hope your Valentine's Day is enjoyable and I will post more business ideas and news tomorrow!

Twyla