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If you’ve been an adult for awhile, you know that life takes you into all kinds of circumstances—from work to play to exercise to travel to celebration. Hopefully, you have discovered that just as there is more than one occasion, there is more than one kind of socks. Pairing the right kind of sock to the right occasion is not only good fashion sense for men—it’s also fun! There’s more to socks than we ever imagined when we were carelessly pulling sneakers over our white socks as kids.

What? You haven’t learned the ins and outs of the different kinds of socks? Then you’re in for a treat! Upping your sock IQ is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your sartorial flair. People notice your socks. If you choose the right sock at the right time, you’ll get filed in their memory banks as a guy who minds the details and comes correct.

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1. No-Show Socks

“No-show” socks, sometimes called “slip-ons” or “slip-on padding,” are the lowest-profile socks, only coming up to mid-foot and not even reaching the ankle.  They’re what you want to wear if you really want to present the image that you are wearing no socks at all. Women pair these kinds of socks with low-cut pumps and heels, as well as ballerina slippers. Men often pair them with low-cut loafers or moccasins. This can be a rakish, devil-may-care look that communicates unshakeable confidence. Socks? Who needs ‘em?

If that’s the sentiment, do you need ‘em? Why not go sockless? Think twice. Not only do socks make even the lowest-profile shoes more comfortable, but they also wick moisture away from your feet and keep them from stinking, which in turn prevents your shoe from acquiring a permanent stink. If stinky feet concern you, wear socks, even invisible ones.

Since no one will see them, the color of these socks does not matter. However, since there’s a chance they will poke out or you might kick off your loafers, you might as well be on point. Pick a color that matches your outfit and avoid white socks unless you are participating in an athletic event.

2. Ankle Socks

Ankle socks are similar to no-show socks—low profile, but they do rise high enough to cover the ankle. You might pair these with sneakers or boots to achieve the no-sock look while preventing chafing on your ankles. 

All things being equal, there’s a greater chance that ankle socks will be seen, so be on point with color. Match your outfit and skin tone. Solid colors are the way to go—a pattern will barely be noticed but will look too busy in too small a space if it is noticed. Black ankle socks are a safe choice. You’ll hear this again and again, but it bears repeating—white socks are only appropriate for the gym, the track, or the sports court. 

3. Quarter Socks

Quarter socks rise up over the ankle and partially cover the lower calf. They are a little too casual to wear to work or a wedding, but make a great impression at summer picnics and parties, especially in snazzy colors. You can pick a simple pattern or novelty graphic for this kind of sock, but the more you try to cram into this small space, the less effective.

4. Crew Socks

At 6-8 inches, crew socks are the lowest socks you expect to see people wearing in the winter. They’re still a little casual for the workplace or a formal celebration, but they work great at an upscale party. Patterns and novelty graphics work well with these socks, as do pairings with lace-ups, loafers, or boots.

Athletic socks may be crew-length and knit from heavy cotton to be more durable. White crew socks are quite common. You may be tempted to buy one package of white crew socks and wear them both to work out and attend parties. Don’t! White socks are for exercise only.

5. Mid-Calf Socks

According to No Cold Feet, the best formal and workplace socks are mid-calf-length. As advertised, they come up to the middle of your calf, right where it is at its thickest. Without the taper of your calf to hold it up, these socks require strong elastic. They may be knit from heavy cotton to last years, but if they are more formal they may be knit from a finer cotton. These socks won’t last as long, but they feel more luxurious, more appropriate for a formal event like a wedding or a ball.

You can really have fun with mid-calf socks in terms of color or novelty graphic, as well as patterns like thin or multi-color stripes or more sober patterns like checks or argyle. These fun but sober patterns add just the right amount of pizzazz to your office attire.

6. Calf Socks

With the calf sock, covering the entire calf just below the knee, we enter a realm of socks primarily limited to athletic applications. These are the socks to wear for a game of baseball, soccer, or rugby. They keep the calf muscle warm and loose and prevent blood clots.

These socks, usually knit from heavy cotton and elastic to prevent tearing or bunching, come in a variety of cool colors, usually solids. Team colors are popular, as are “barber-pole” dual-color stripes. White calf socks are acceptable, although a stripe of color near the top of the calf adds extra athletic flavor.

7. Knee Socks

Knee socks and higher are most commonly worn by women, under knee-high or thigh-high boots. There aren’t too many generally-accepted reasons for men to wear knee-high or thigh-high socks–but rules were meant to be broken. If you’re feeling adventurous, go wild!

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Hopefully this guide has filled your imagination with ideas on how you can expand your sock acumen and maybe even shed light on some footwear faux-pas you never even knew you were making. (No white socks!) 

It’s never too late to get your sock game on point. Pick a style that suits you and get on your feet!

Liu Quingdong or otherwise known as Richard Liu, CEO and leader of JD.com, has been working in the retail industry since before the turn of the millennium. Liu Quingdong has witnessed the SARS epidemic that hit the region back in 2003, and he understands the extra responsibility that is put on the shoulder of business leaders and people who are looked up to by others.

People would find out more about what they do because they are involved in the community in many ways.

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Richard Liu is an influential figure in China. His retail platform is the largest in the country solely for its established supply chain network that caters to even those remote areas where businesses do not bother operating in. Liu understands what it is to have a business close down or not receive customers due to an epidemic and that is why he has taken huge steps in ensuring that the economic impact of the virus is minimized. 

Since supermarkets are temporarily closed Jingdong is looking to hire more than 5000 people for its picking and packing division. They are doing this by hiring the same people who have lost their jobs in the brick and mortar supermarkets and have not been inflicted with the virus. The company has also introduced customer service positions available for those who cannot leave their house as they are caring for their ill family members but are themselves able and healthy. They can work remotely and customer service reps for JD.

Apart from this JD has also created 35,000 new jobs out of which 20,000 jobs are for the roles of logistic related jobs such as drivers, and warehouse managers. JD.com has also pushed the Dada Group which it backs to upscale its operations and delivery systems by hiring an additional 10,000 people.

The existing employees at the warehouses and the HQ of JD have to stick with strict set of requirements that ensure that the virus does not spread. It is mandatory for all employees to wear masks and gloves. At regular intervals they all undergo temperature checks. Their insurance policy has been updated to include benefits for Coronavirus.

On the monetary front, JD has done more than most. Richard Liu has donated more than RMB 200 million to support the aid for Coronavirus. The company has also donated its own resources to various charities. The online retail organization donated 100 million masks and 60,000 units of medical supplies and medicines to the charity foundations in the Hubei province. It has also funded and delivered 80,000 masks to hospitals throughout Wuhan. Wuhan is the center of the outbreak and therefore under partial quarantine, it takes extra measures and special permission to transport goods inside. 

To date JD has also delivered 1600 tons of preventive paraphernalia to the surrounding areas of Wuhan. They have accomplished this with a team of volunteers who already reside in these areas.

There is good reason that people are not going outside to go shopping and therefore the demand for online shopping has significantly increased. However, there is still a risk of transporting goods from the nearest store to a customer’s location. JD has made changes to its supply chain route and is now not picking up things that have already reached the inventory of stores. Instead in partnership with the brands that it sells at the online store, JD picks up items straight from the manufacturing warehouses and delivers it to the doorsteps of the consumers, with only one person involved in handling those goods and that is the JD.com driver who has protective gear on.

 

At the heart of any business venture in the modern world is someone who is capable of understanding marketing trends and making them work for their plans. A good marketing plan is one that takes into account the needs of everyone involved. This means seeing the business from the point of the people who work there. It also means thinking about how competitors see the company. Perhaps most of all, it means thinking about how a client might see what they are doing and why this client might choose to work with them. This is a process that Luke Lazarus has always kept in mind. As one of the world’s masters of marketing, he has been at the forefront of spotting marketing trends and figuring out the best way to act of them. It’s no wonder all those who are looking for advice about this process are pleased to hear exactly what he has to say. 

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The Role of Social Media

One area that has perhaps garnered the lion’s share of attention in the modern world is that marketing. Marketing efforts for social media can take many forms. One of the most important in the last few years has been the rise of social media. Social media, according to Luke Lazarus, will pay a great role in the world of marketing in the coming year. It is imperative to understand why this form of marketing exists, how to leverage it and why so many people continue to make use of it. Those companies that know this are those who will succeed in all they do in the new year. A good marketing plan is one that will take into account marketing for social media and make sure it works. Knowing this market is imperative for all contemporary companies. 

Reaching Out on Instagram

Of all the forms of social media marketing, it is that of Instagram that Luke Lazarus thinks will play a truly primary role in the field. Those company officials who are not aware of the possibilities in this kind of social media should take the time to learn all about it. Doing so can quickly pay off. This is one form of social media that speaks to many people of varied backgrounds and different age groups. It’s where people look for those who might have something to say. Many people are looking for popular trends they can follow and learn from as they do. This is why it is one of the most important places for all those who are going to make a splash on social media. It can help any company truly find a way to stand out from the competition. 

Knowing How to Use Platforms

Platforms like these can create all sorts of benefits for the informed user. It is up to the companies of today to make sure they know what they are doing when it comes to their use, like executing the best digital marketing for tree companies. Each company official should bear in mind how they can craft a message that is going to work for their needs and the needs of their clients. This is a good place to use advertising budgets. At the same time, it is also a place where the clients need to think about how they are going to pay for the things they want to provide for their clients and the message they hope to convey. The use of such funds must be carefully considered when it comes to understanding how best to use social media efforts. Properly applied funds can and will yield impressive results for all companies.

 

Since 2009, an interactive, role-playing video game named Fallen London has been a favorite source of entertainment for people around the world. This narrative game is browser-based, and it has led to the development of two related games.

The creator and writer of Fallen London is a British man named Alexis Kennedy. A former English teacher, Mr. Kennedy shares his thoughts about creating video games and more in a 2019 interview on the Business Matters magazine website.

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When asked how he brings ideas to life, Kennedy says that the process begins with a visual image that brings out a feeling. He describes those feelings as keynotes that set the tone for the work to come. Having multiple keynotes or inspirations, he says, makes it easier to create distinctive works.

In describing an average day in his life, Mr. Kennedy says that although his primary activity is writing, most of it is non-linear text that is written in small bits. Throughout the day, he will often alternate between the writing of text and code.

As for sketching out ideas, Kennedy can turn to the whiteboard that covers an entire wall in his living room. For him, it helps to be able to sit in a chair for focused work, and also stand in front of the whiteboard when it’s time to think in larger terms.

Alexis Kennedy developed the Fallen London game while at Failbetter Games, which was the first company that he founded. This dark adventure game is set in London in the late 19th century, and has proven to be very popular. Accessed by millions of users, this browser game has been running online continuously since its debut in 2009.

The other games in the Fallen London universe are named Sunless Sea and Sunless Skies. Designed as a PC game, Sunless Sea is an adventurous, role-playing game that largely takes place in an underground ocean known as the Unterzee. Sunless Skies serves as a sequel to the Sunless Sea game.

For beginners in the field of video game design, Mr. Kennedy advises them to remain patient. They should not expect to turn a profit until they have released several games, allowing them to build-up a body of work that consumers are familiar with.

Another piece of advice that Kennedy gives to other independent video game developers is to not get stuck on a particular work-related problem. The way he sees it, it’s best to walk away from a problem for five minutes and then come back to it. By doing so, a person can gain insights into the situation that can help to solve the problem. This approach can be especially useful when solving complex problems in games like Valorant, where finding solutions or optimizing strategies often requires a fresh perspective – valorant hacks can sometimes help develop problem-solving skills.

In 2017, Kennedy and Lottie Bevan co-founded a game studio named Weather Factory. Specializing in narrative games, this company’s first game was the occult-themed Cultist Simulator. This apocalyptic, critically acclaimed game utilizes both cards and action buttons, and has been a commercial success.

Alexis Kennedy also advises other independent game developers to listen to other people and expect to make mistakes. Hopefully, one will be able to learn from those mistakes. 

 

Moving to a new home is an exciting time, but it can also be a stressful one, particularly when it comes to choosing the right moving company. 

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for your needs. 

Fortunately, by following some key steps and considerations, you can narrow down your options and find the best residential moving company for your move.

Researching Potential Moving Companies

The first step in choosing a residential moving company is to research potential options. Some key ways to do this include:

Ask for Referrals from Friends and Family

One of the best ways to find a reliable moving company is to ask friends and family members who have recently moved for referrals. They can provide valuable insight into their experiences and recommend companies that they trust.

Check Online Reviews

Another way to research potential moving companies is to check online reviews. Websites like Yelp and Google Reviews provide feedback from past customers, giving you an idea of what to expect from a particular company.

Look for Industry Certifications and Affiliations

A reputable moving company should be certified by industry associations like the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) or the International Association of Movers (IAM). These certifications demonstrate that the company meets high standards for quality and service.

Check Their Licensing and Insurance

Before choosing a moving company, make sure they are licensed and insured. This ensures that the company is legitimate and that you will be protected in case of any damages or losses during the move.

Research the Company’s History and Reputation

Take the time to research the company’s history and reputation. Check their website for information on their history, service offerings, and customer testimonials. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if there have been any complaints filed against them.

Consider Their Experience and Expertise

Finally, consider the residential moving company’s experience and expertise. A company with years of experience in the industry is likely to have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle your move with care and efficiency. 

Additionally, if you have unique or specialized items to move, such as pianos or antiques, look for a company with experience in moving these types of items.

Evaluating the Moving Services Offered

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential moving companies, the next step is to evaluate the services they offer. Some key factors to consider include:

Determine the Types of Services Offered

Different moving companies offer different types of services. Some companies offer full-service moves, which include packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. 

Others may only offer basic moving services, such as loading and unloading the truck. Determine which services you need and find a company that offers them.

Consider the Level of Experience and Professionalism of the Staff

The staff at a moving company can make a big difference in the quality of service you receive. Look for a company with experienced and professional staff who are knowledgeable about the moving process and can answer your questions and address your concerns.

Find Out How the Company Handles Fragile and Valuable Items

If you have fragile or valuable items that require special care, make sure the moving company you choose has experience in handling them. 

Ask about their packing materials and techniques and make sure they are willing and able to take extra precautions to protect your items.

Consider the Level of Customization Offered

Every move is unique, and you may have specific needs or requirements that a moving company needs to accommodate. Look for a company that offers customizable moving plans to meet your individual needs.

Determine the Availability of Storage Options

If you need storage options for your items, make sure the moving company you choose offers them. Some companies offer short-term or long-term storage options, while others do not. Determine your storage needs and find a company that can accommodate them.

Understanding the Cost and Payment Options

Another important factor to consider when choosing a residential moving company is the cost and payment options. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Request a Detailed Quote

Before choosing a moving company, make sure to request a detailed quote that includes all the costs associated with your move. This should include any additional fees or charges, such as fuel surcharges or packing materials.

Find Out What’s Included in the Quote

Make sure you understand exactly what is included in the quote you receive. Some moving companies may only provide basic services, while others may include additional services like packing or unpacking. Make sure you know what you are paying for.

Determine Payment Options and Payment Schedule

Different moving companies may offer different payment options and payment schedules. Some may require a deposit upfront, while others may require payment in full upon completion of the move. 

Determine what payment options are available and make sure you are comfortable with the payment schedule.

Consider Additional Fees and Charges

Be aware of any additional fees or charges that may be added to your quote, such as fees for moving large or heavy items, long-distance fees, or storage fees. 

Make sure you understand these fees and are comfortable with them before choosing a moving company.

Evaluate the Value for Money

Finally, consider the overall value for money when choosing a residential moving company. 

While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality of service and the safety of your items should also be a consideration.

Considering the Logistics of the Move

Another important consideration when choosing a residential moving company is the logistics of the move. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Determine the Company’s Availability

Make sure the moving company you choose is available on the dates you need to move. If you have a specific move-in date, make sure the company can accommodate it.

Find Out How the Company Handles Delays and Emergencies

Unfortunately, delays and emergencies can happen during a move. Find out how the moving company handles these situations and what their protocol is for rescheduling or dealing with unexpected issues.

Determine the Company’s Process for Loading and Unloading

Make sure you understand how the moving company will load and unload your items. Ask about their equipment and techniques and make sure they will take steps to protect your items during the process.

Consider the Size and Type of Truck Used

The size and type of truck used can make a big difference in the efficiency and safety of your move. Make sure the moving company you choose has trucks that are appropriate for the size and scope of your move.

Evaluate the Company’s Ability to Handle Long-Distance Moves

If you are moving long distance, make sure the moving company you choose has experience with long-distance moves and can handle the logistics of your move.

Assessing

Customer Service and Communication

The level of customer service and communication offered by a moving company can also be a deciding factor in your choice. Here are some key things to consider:

Evaluate the Company’s Responsiveness and Availability

Make sure the moving company you choose is responsive and available to answer your questions and concerns throughout the moving process.

Consider the Level of Customer Service Offered

The level of customer service offered by a moving company can make a big difference in your overall experience. Look for a company that is attentive to your needs and concerns and provides excellent customer service.

Determine the Company’s Communication Channels and Processes

Make sure you understand how the moving company will communicate with you throughout the move. Ask about their communication channels and processes and make sure they are clear and easy to understand.

Evaluate the Company’s Ability to Address Customer Concerns and Complaints

Finally, consider the moving company’s ability to address customer concerns and complaints. Look for a company that takes customer feedback seriously and is willing to make things right if something goes wrong.

Checking for Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Before choosing a residential moving company, it’s important to make sure they are legally and regulatory compliant. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Check if the Company is Registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

The FMCSA is a federal agency that regulates interstate moving companies. Make sure the company you choose is registered with the FMCSA and has a valid Motor Carrier number.

Determine if the Company Follows the Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations

The DOT regulates moving companies that transport goods across state lines. Make sure the moving company you choose follows DOT regulations and has the necessary permits and insurance.

Check if the Company Adheres to State and Local Regulations

In addition to federal regulations, moving companies may also be subject to state and local regulations. Make sure the moving company you choose adheres to these regulations.

Making the Final Decision

After considering all of these factors, it’s time to make a final decision on which residential moving company to choose. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Determine Which Company Best Fits Your Needs

Consider all of the factors discussed in this article and determine which company best fits your needs.

Consider the Key Factors and Evaluation Criteria

Review the key factors and evaluation criteria that you have established and determine which company meets those criteria.

Make Sure You Fully Understand the Terms and Conditions

Before signing a contract with a moving company, make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions, including any fees or charges.

Make a Final Decision

Once you have weighed all the factors and considered your options, make a final decision and book your residential moving company.

FAQs

What should I do if I need to move on short notice?

If you need to move on short notice, it’s important to act quickly. Start by contacting several moving companies to see if they have availability for your move. 

Be prepared to pay a higher price for last-minute moving services, and be flexible with your move date if possible.

How can I avoid moving scams?

Moving scams can be avoided by doing your research and choosing a reputable moving company. 

Look for a company that is licensed and insured, has good reviews, and is transparent about their pricing and services. 

Avoid companies that ask for large deposits upfront or provide extremely low estimates that seem too good to be true.

Can I negotiate the cost of moving services?

While it’s not always possible to negotiate the cost of moving services, it doesn’t hurt to ask. 

Some moving companies may be willing to offer a discount or work with you on pricing, especially if you are flexible with your move dates or are moving during the off-season.

How can I ensure the safety of my belongings during the move?

To ensure the safety of your belongings during the move, make sure to choose a reputable moving company that has experience handling delicate or valuable items. 

Ask about their packing techniques and materials, and make sure they use the proper equipment to load and unload your items. 

Additionally, consider purchasing moving insurance to protect your items in case of any damage or loss.

What happens if something gets damaged during the move?

If something gets damaged during the move, contact your moving company immediately to report the issue. 

Most moving companies have a claims process that you can follow to seek reimbursement for any damages. 

Make sure to document the damage with photos and keep copies of all relevant documents and receipts.

Moving Made Easy

Choosing the right residential moving company can make all the difference in your moving experience. 

By following the steps and considerations outlined in this article, you can find a reliable and trustworthy moving company that meets your needs and makes your move a success.