Meet the ‘extremely talented’ winner of Stormzy’s #Merky Books 2023 William Rafet Hunter

Driven by personal experiences 30-year-old William Hunter (he/they) aims to bridge societal gaps through universal themes of human connection. Winning the #MerkyBooks New Writers’ Prize 2022 alongside being a junior doctor working in Accident and Emergency, he draws on his identity to enhance patient care, viewing empathy as a strength in healthcare settings where kindness and responsibility are paramount and this heavily influences his writing.

When asked about the New Writers’ Prize, he tells me he first heard about it on the radio and when confiding in a friend about their entry a few days before the deadline “…she was like, you have to send this in! Like, this is really good. And I think if she hadn’t said that, I probably wouldn’t have done it, so I owe her a lot”. The doctor was “completely blown away” and said, “I still have moments where it has not really settled in”.

Discussing his debut novel ‘People Like Us’, now to be called ‘Sunstruck’ , Will revealed “…it was about the characters and just how kind of vibrant they felt” that made his entry stand out against almost 1,000 other entries submitted. He goes on to tell me more about the book; following two young men in the South of France who meet and fall in love whilst on holiday and how that bond is tested when they return back home in London. One of the men is mixed race, working-class, whereas the other is white and from a well off London based family.

“…I draw a lot from some of my experiences of dating, but also just of like, being a person of colour in quite white spaces, which is something that I think most people of color in the UK experience to some degree, and trying to find the point of human connection in those, like, quite fraught spaces. I guess it’s come from a thought experiment, on how to bridge those gaps and love across things like race and class. And it’s just about how, whether or not it’s strong enough to overcome those very structural things because love feels so organic in some ways, but then, now there’s all of this structure around it”

Hunter mentions there will be points of reference to black culture – specifically Jamaican culture and hopes these points will hit home with readers who can relate. “There are also some really universal points about how you love and how you feel loved by someone who is different to you, that will appeal too”.

I asked whether or not Will feels any pressure regarding being a prize winner to which he responded by commending other successful candidates of the #MerkyBooks Prize: “I’ve seen how the previous winners’ books have done and their writing really speaks for itself and I hope mine does as well”.

Exploring the writer’s other successes, studying Medicine and earning a Master’s in Clinical and Forensic Psychology at Newcastle University, he describes how he thrives on having a busy schedule and therefore enjoys incorporating all socializing, writing and studying into his life.

He vocalises the ups and downs of working in Accident and Emergency starting in December 2019. “You are taking on a lot of emotion, and I find it quite hard to separate myself from the patients’ emotions. So I find it a very emotionally taxing job”. On the other hand, Will explains how rewarding it was “…seeing the change in someone from them being anxious and afraid when they come in and being more reassured and feeling safer when they leave.. I found that amazing”.

Although Will has taken a step back from A&E and is focusing more on writing, he refers to feeling “really lucky to be a queer black person. I think those parts of my identity allow me a level of empathy with other people who are struggling in so many different ways… I could understand them (patients) better. I could be kinder. I understood feeling scared, and I understood feeling ashamed”.

Whilst conversing about the lack of representation for strong queer and/or black leads in media, books, public figures, etc., Will shares that a “big inspiration of mine is a writer called Caleb Azuma Nelson…I really loved Queenie by Candice Carty Williams. I think it’s like an excellent book” and also talks about how he “grew up reading a lot of Zadie Smith”. They discuss how they feel lucky to be a part of #MerkyBooks as they’re now included in this new wave of black British writers that the industry is starting to notice.

What else can you expect from Will Hunter? He shares, ” Currently, I’m focusing more on my writing. Started, as I said, on my second novel. I would love for Sunstruck to potentially become something else, maybe get an adaptation or something like that… I’d love to just feel out the edges of my writing practice, I guess, and see where I can go with it. I’m interested in doing some more essay writing and just writing about the world around me, because it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do. And since winning the prize, I’ve now got the opportunity and the confidence in my own voice where I’m like, okay, I can. I can take this seriously. I can. I can be a writer. That’s something that I can do”.

Here at Elevate, we are beyond excited to read ‘Sunstruck’ due to be released on 15th May 2025. Available to pre-order from Amazon, Blackwells, Bookshop.org, Foyles, Hive, Waterstones,  Penguin Books and WHSmith.

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Sleeping your body fat away

Everyone knows how important getting a good night’s sleep is, but what actually happens when we close our eyes and drift off to sleep?

There are a whole variety of negative health connotations associated with poor sleep quality, so below we will briefly touch on a few of the main ones to hopefully help you understand the issue slightly better. Firstly, an interesting study from the University of Chicago on individuals looking to lose weight following a calorie-restricted diet at the same time as monitoring their sleep.

Two groups were studied, one was sleep deprived only gaining 5.5 hours sleep, whilst the other group on exactly the same diet but getting 8.5 hours sleep found that at the end of the study, they’d lost 55% more body fat simply from sleeping more.

Now this goes against the modern-day dogma of doing more to achieve your goals and in many ways sounds counterintuitive, as how does doing less (i.e. sleeping) actually give you more in terms of burning fat.

This isn’t just a question of sleeping more, we need to sleep smarter. What actually happens whilst we sleep that enhances everything that we do, and becomes some kind of elixir to our health, fitness and longevity?

So, for today let’s talk about a few hormones that may be having an effect on your sleep and health.

HGH (Human Growth Hormone) is an extremely powerful hormone that you will produce during the first part of your sleep cycle, and which helps to produce more lean muscle. It’s also muscle sparing and helps to protect the muscle that you already have. HGH also helps to increase energy levels and is known as the “Fountain of Youth” as you will have naturally higher levels during childhood.

Sleep is the key here, as you won’t increase your levels from a supplement that claims to “Increase HGH by 555%”, but you will increase levels by getting a good night’s sleep.

The second hormone that we need to look at is cortisol, which has become a bit of a buzzword and bogeyman of late. Cortisol is responsible for a whole variety of metabolic functions such as helping to regulate your thyroid hormone.

The thyroid regulates nearly every major metabolic function within your body, and as such, a poor functioning thyroid can have a detrimental effect on nearly every area of your health. For instance, weight gain, reduced metabolic rate, fatigue, feeling depressed or moody, dry hair and skin and much more. Cortisol is our friend for most of the time; it only becomes an issue if it’s produced at the wrong time and in the wrong amount.

Sleep deprivation has an immediate effect with an increase in cortisol levels and a decrease in HGH production. So, if you’re staying up late, and burning the midnight oil checking your emails then your cortisol levels will be increased significantly, and you will literally be breaking down your muscle tissue for energy at an elevated rate. This process is called gluconeogenesis, where you will be breaking down your valuable muscle tissue into sugar (glucose).

Read more on Elevate online magazine

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BLOG SISTERHOOD STRONG

The concept behind the Women in Business Brunch Club was born out of a passion for bringing like-minded women together—not just giving them a platform, but also empowering them with a voice! The Sisterhood Strong launch event took place at the stylish Menagerie Restaurant on 27th September, where over 70 guests graced the “pink carpet,” dressed in striking pink outfits.

The event featured a panel of expert speakers, including Candice Matthew, who presented alongside Carol-Ann Reid, Jennie Priestner of @alignedauthenticself, Ella Wilson Ferry, and Lindsay Hofman. Guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails, mocktails, or glasses of bubbly, while being entertained by the eclectic sounds of Zola Steelpan and a fire performance by Teagan Herbert.

The event was powered by World Privilege Plus and Elevate, in partnership with Armani Beauty and Kiehls. Additional brand sponsors included Nield Visual Media, Lustrelash, Feyas World, The Glow Regime, Arbonne, and Ocean Sage Therapies.

Photography was beautifully captured by Caroline White, with highlight shots by Capturing Curves. Molyneux Marketing created the event visuals and promotional video in collaboration with Nield Visual Media and Pixie Creative Socials. Guests were also treated to delicious cupcakes from Sunlight Pastries and More.

Singer Ellie Marie brought the house down with a performance of “At Last” by Etta James, transitioning into a high-energy party atmosphere. Aneesa Rasul added to the excitement with an empowering dance performance, while Teagan Herbert and Zola Steelpan kept the afterparty buzzing with infectious energy.

The subjects covered on stage ranged from manifestation and money mindset to fitness, nutrition, and content creation. Attendees left with unshakable confidence and new connections. Henry Ditchfield crowned Fazila Sciberras as the best-dressed attendee—a true fashion icon!

A big thank you to the team at Menagerie and everyone who attended. We can’t wait to see you at the next event!

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Treehouse Hotel Manchester …

Treehouse Hotel Manchester has announced the name and concept of its first destination restaurant, Pip. Launching alongside the hotel in late summer, the first restaurant to be revealed will be headed up by one of Manchester’s most celebrated chefs, Mary-Ellen McTague. Pip will be located on the ground floor of Treehouse Hotel Manchester and will offer a menu that champions low-waste cooking and seasonal ingredients.

Treehouse Hotel Manchester, by SH Hotels & Resorts, will be the second property for the award-winning Treehouse Hotels brand to open in the UK. Located in the city centre, the hotel will bring adventure, escapism and contemporary design to guests and the local community alike. Every detail is imagined through the carefree, optimistic lens of childhood, balanced with a distinctly modern sensibility.

With over 20 years of experience in hospitality and as a restaurateur, Mary-Ellen McTague has worked alongside Heston Blumenthal at his esteemed Michelin-starred restaurants, The Fat Duck and The Hinds Head. Now, the Manchester-born and raised Chef is set to bring her innovative ethos of low-waste cooking to Manchester’s restaurant. scene.

At Pip, diners can expect dishes that reimagine the potential of each ingredient served throughout the day. With offerings ranging from breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a convenient grab-and-go option for busy city dwellers, Pip’s seasonal all-day menu focuses on utilising produce sourced from local farms. Mary-Ellen takes an innovative and conscientious approach to cooking, crafting new flavours from unconventional ingredients. The menus reflect her talent and creativity, complementing a thoughtfully curated wine and drinks list. Dish highlights include Carlingford oysters with fennel kimchi liquor; Home-smoked mackerel with pickled beets, mustard cream and rye; Lancashire hotpot with pickled red cabbage and oyster ketchup; Rhubarb fool with olive oil biscuits.

Sustainability efforts extend to the drinks offered at Pip. The wine programme focuses on small boutique-produced, environmentally conscious and sustainable wines. This includes organic and biodynamic farming and other methods of minimal intervention. Similarly, the cocktail program features a rotation of seasonal signature drinks and classics, developed in synergy with the kitchen and anchored in minimal waste practices. The drinks showcase what can be done to repurpose spent produce into creative homemade ingredients thoughtfully.

Commenting on her new restaurant opening, Mary-Ellen McTague said: “I’m thrilled to bring Pip to life at Treehouse Hotel Manchester. This restaurant is a celebration of everything I am passionate about – seasonal, low-waste cooking and the incredible produce we have here in the North West. The menu is designed to showcase the best of our local culinary heritage, using modern techniques that make the most of every single ingredient. I cannot wait to share our vision for Pip with the Manchester community and beyond.”

Commenting on the first restaurant to open at the hotel, Tim Reynolds, General Manager of Treehouse Hotel Manchester, said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome Pip to Treehouse Hotel Manchester. Mary-Ellen’s innovative approach to low-waste cooking and her dedication to using locally sourced ingredients align perfectly with our values. We look forward to offering our guests an extraordinary dining experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of Manchester.” Pip will welcome guests in late summer, alongside the opening of Treehouse Hotel Manchester. To be the first to hear about Pip’s opening and bookings.

Contact Treehouse Hotel Manchester to be the first to hear about its opening and booking.
Follow us on socials: @staytreehouse and @pip.mcr

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Celebrating Black History Month Across the UK: Events and Insights

As October rolls in, the UK gears up to celebrate Black History Month, a time dedicated to honouring the contributions of Black individuals and communities throughout history. This month-long observance is packed with events, activities, and educational opportunities that highlight the rich cultural heritage and experiences of Black Britons. Whether you’re looking to engage in community celebrations or deepen your understanding of Black history, this blog explores the exciting happenings across the UK and the importance of these commemorations.

Understanding the Significance of Black History Month
Black History Month was first celebrated in the UK in 1987, drawing inspiration from the US tradition of Negro History Week established by historian Carter G. Woodson. The month aims to educate the public about the achievements and struggles of Black individuals throughout history. In today’s context, it also serves as a platform for discussing contemporary issues related to race, identity, and social justice.

Educational Events Across Schools and Universities
Many educational institutions in the UK are integrating Black history into their curricula during October. Schools and universities organise workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that delve into the contributions of notable Black figures. Engaging students through interactive sessions helps foster a deeper understanding of Black culture and history, making these events crucial for shaping young minds.

Cultural Institutions Hosting Special Exhibitions
Cultural institutions play a pivotal role in Black History Month celebrations. Museums and galleries throughout the UK, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, often feature exhibitions that highlight the achievements of Black communities. These exhibitions not only showcase historical artefacts but also promote contemporary Black artists, allowing visitors to explore the impact of Black culture on British society.

Arts and Performance: Celebrating Black Creativity
The arts are a central focus during Black History Month, with theatres and performance spaces hosting a plethora of events. From plays and poetry readings to musical performances, these events celebrate the richness of Black creativity. Local community centres often organise open mic nights and talent showcases, providing a platform for emerging artists to share their stories and connect with their communities. To find local events, visit Black Cultural Archives.

Culinary Celebrations: Exploring Black Cuisine
Food festivals and culinary events are also integral to Black History Month, offering a taste of Africa and the Caribbean. Restaurants across the UK may feature special menus that highlight traditional dishes, inviting patrons to explore the flavours and culinary traditions of Black cultures. Websites like EatYourWorld provide insights into different cuisines and local eateries that celebrate these cultures.

Community Involvement: Celebrating Together
Community involvement is essential for a successful Black History Month. Many neighbourhoods organise festivals and gatherings that bring people together for a day of celebration. These events typically feature music, dance, storytelling, and art, creating an environment of unity and dialogue. From London to Manchester and beyond, local communities actively participate in shaping their narratives, celebrating their heritage, and educating others. Check out Eventbrite for listings of Black History Month events near you.

The Role of Social Media in Amplifying Voices
Social media platforms have become invaluable tools for promoting Black History Month events. Campaigns and hashtags encourage individuals to share their stories, reflections, and experiences related to Black history. This digital engagement not only broadens the reach of the celebrations but also fosters connections among individuals across the UK and globally.

This October, Aviva Studios will become a vibrant hub for Black History Month, hosting an exciting array of events designed to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage of Black communities in the UK. From music and poetry to enlightening discussions, the programme promises to engage and inspire attendees, showcasing the diverse narratives that shape our understanding of Black history. Take a look at what’s on

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Want to Enhance Employee and Customer Loyalty Without Breaking the Bank

The Cost-Effective Benefits of a World Privilege Plus White-Label  Program

In an increasingly competitive market, businesses are constantly searching for ways to stand out, improve customer retention, and boost employee satisfaction. Offering exclusive perks and discounts through a **white-label version of World Privilege Plus (WPP)** could be the key to unlocking these goals—without the hefty price tag often associated with loyalty programs.

What is a White-Label World Privilege Plus?
A **white-label solution** allows your business to offer World Privilege Plus benefits under your own branding, giving your employees or customers access to a global network of discounts and services while maintaining your company’s identity. It’s a turnkey solution that saves time, resources, and effort compared to developing an in-house perks platform from scratch.

Cost-Effective Benefits for Companies
Whether you’re a small business looking to reward your employees or a larger corporation aiming to enhance your customer loyalty program, WPP’s white-label service is designed to fit a variety of business needs without compromising on quality.

1. Cost Savings on Program Development
Developing your own loyalty or employee rewards platform requires significant investment in both time and resources. From software development to partner acquisition and program management, the costs can spiral quickly. With a **white-label version of WPP**, you get an already-established platform with thousands of global partnerships. This eliminates the need for upfront development costs while providing a polished, feature-rich product.

2. Scalable Pricing Based on Business Size
WPP offers **scalable pricing plans** tailored to businesses of different sizes. Whether you have 50 employees or 5,000 customers, there’s a plan that fits your needs and budget. This flexibility allows you to start small and scale up as your business grows or your needs evolve, without being tied to expensive, rigid contracts.

3. Low Maintenance and Management Costs
Managing a loyalty or rewards program requires constant upkeep—negotiating deals, refreshing offerings, and handling customer service. World Privilege Plus takes care of all of this for you, from onboarding new partners to ensuring a seamless user experience. This reduces your operational burden and costs, freeing up resources to focus on your core business.

4. Increased Retention at a Low Cost
Employee turnover and customer churn are costly challenges for businesses. Studies show that access to perks and discounts increases both employee satisfaction and customer loyalty. By offering WPP’s **white-label service**, you create an added value that can help reduce turnover and keep customers coming back—without the financial strain of launching a custom loyalty platform.

The Return on Investment
The value of offering a white-label version of WPP can quickly outpace the costs:

– For Employees: A perk-rich environment can improve morale, productivity, and retention. Access to discounts on travel, dining, and everyday purchases can make a significant difference to your team’s overall happiness, leading to less turnover and reduced hiring costs.

– For Customers: Loyalty programs are a proven way to increase repeat business. By offering a branded rewards program with exclusive perks, you encourage customers to engage more frequently with your brand, improving lifetime value without the overhead of traditional loyalty campaigns.

Tailored to Fit Your Brand
The white-label WPP solution is fully customizable, allowing you to match the user interface, color schemes, and branding to your company’s identity. This means you can offer world-class perks without losing your unique brand voice, ensuring that the program feels like an extension of your business rather than a third-party add-on.

Affordable and Effective
With flexible pricing structures, customizable options, and low-maintenance requirements, the white-label version of World Privilege Plus is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost both employee engagement and customer retention.

Instead of diverting your budget into costly custom solutions, WPP provides your business with a platform that’s ready to go—allowing you to focus on growth while delivering a meaningful benefit to your employees or customers.

Interested in learning more about how affordable it can be to enhance your company’s perks offering? Contact us today to explore pricing options and start building a loyalty program that’s tailored to your business!

www.worldprivilegeplus.com
[email protected]
Tel:01617989140
07549928210

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A Plastic Ocean: The Threat and Ocean Bottle’s Refreshing Response

Our ocean, the cradle of life and a vital part of our planet’s health are facing a growing menace: plastic pollution. Discarded plastic waste finds its way into rivers, streams, and ultimately, the vast expanse of the seas. This seemingly innocuous material wreaks havoc on marine ecosystems, posing a dire threat to countless species and the delicate balance of the ocean environment.

The statistics surrounding plastic pollution in our oceans are staggering. An estimated 8-12 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, largely originating from land-based sources. This plastic persists for hundreds, even thousands of years, breaking down into smaller and smaller fragments known as microplastics. These microplastics contaminate the food chain, ingested by plankton, fish and even making their way into the seafood we consume. 

The consequences for marine life are devastating. Animals become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injuries, suffocation and even death. Seabirds and turtles mistake plastic bags for food, filling their stomachs with a deadly substitute. This plastic pollution not only disrupts the natural order of the ocean but also poses a significant threat to human health. 

Fortunately, amidst this grim reality, organisations like Ocean Bottle are rising to the challenge. Founded with a clear mission – to combat ocean plastic pollution – Ocean Bottle offers a refreshing and impactful solution. Their innovative reusable water bottles are made from recycled stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, silicone rubber and ocean-bound plastic. All of these materials are recyclable.

Here’s how Ocean Bottle makes a difference:

  • Combating Plastic at its Source: For every Ocean Bottle sold, the business funds the collection of 1000 plastic bottles in weight. Ocean Bottle works with three Plastic Collection partners to collect plastic on a global scale in areas where plastic pollution is at its worst.  Collectors exchange plastic for money and get access to social resources such as healthcare, education and financial security.  So far, Ocean Bottle has collected 14,164,500 kilograms of plastic via its partners, the equivalent of 1 billion plastic bottles in weight. This prevents further plastic from entering the marine environment and contributes to cleaner oceans.
  • Promoting Reuse: Ocean Bottle’s reusable water bottles are a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bottles. Encouraging people to switch to reusable options significantly reduces plastic consumption and its associated environmental impact. 
  • Raising Awareness: The Ocean Bottle is a powerful symbol of the fight against plastic pollution. Every bottle tells a story—the story of plastic waste transformed into a force for good. This raises awareness and inspires individuals to become more conscious of their plastic footprint. 

The impact of Ocean Bottle extends beyond the tangible benefits of cleaner oceans and reduced plastic consumption. By supporting this organisation, consumers actively participate in the solution. Every Ocean Bottle purchased represents a commitment to a healthier planet and a thriving ocean. 

In conclusion, plastic pollution is a pressing environmental challenge threatening the future of our oceans. Fortunately, organisations like Ocean Bottle offer a beacon of hope. Ocean Bottle champions a healthier future for our oceans and the incredible life they sustain by empowering individuals to make an impact, promoting responsible consumption and fostering awareness. By choosing an Ocean Bottle, you make a conscious decision to be a part of the solution, ensuring a cleaner, healthier future for our planet’s blue heart.

Please do your part and visit Ocean Bottle login in to your benefits platform to get your 10% discount code.

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The Advantages of a Book Club: Insights, Pros, Cons, and Best Practices 📚

🌅📚 WPPElevate Book Club is on the Horizon! Stay Tuned !

We’re thrilled to introduce the upcoming  WPPElevate Book Club!  Subscribe to Elevate Magazine for free to gain immediate access to our book club as soon as it launches. Meanwhile, enjoy the perks of our discount club and explore Elevate Magazine at www.wppelevate.com. Exciting things are on the way, so make sure you stay tuned! 📚✨

Joining a book club can be an enriching experience that offers numerous benefits beyond just reading books. From fostering a sense of community to broadening literary horizons, book clubs provide a platform for intellectual growth and social engagement.

The Take on Book Clubs 📖
A book club is a gathering of individuals who meet regularly to discuss books they have read and share
their thoughts. It is more than just a reading group; it is a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate literature and enjoy intellectual discussions. Book clubs can be formal or informal, large or small, and can focus on various genres or themes.

Pros of Joining a Book Club 🌟

  1. Social Interaction and Networking: Book clubs provide an excellent opportunity to meet new people and build friendships. This social interaction can be particularly beneficial for expanding one’s professional network or making new friends.
  2. Broadening Literary Horizons: Being part of a book club encourages readers to explore genres and authors they might not have considered otherwise. This exposure can lead to discovering new favorite books and authors, enhancing one’s appreciation for different styles and themes.
  3. Enhanced Critical Thinking: Discussing books in a group setting can improve critical thinking and analytical skills. Members are encouraged to articulate their thoughts, defend their opinions, and consider alternative viewpoints. This engagement can sharpen the mind and improve communication skills.
  4. Accountability and Motivation: Knowing that you will be discussing a book with others can provide the motivation needed to read regularly.
  5. Stress Relief: Reading is a well-known stress reliever, and discussing books in a supportive group can further enhance this effect.

Cons of Joining a Book Club ⚖️

  1. Time Commitment: Regular meetings require a significant time commitment, which can be challenging for individuals with busy schedules.
  2. Diverse Opinions: While diverse opinions can enrich discussions, they can also lead to disagreements and conflicts. Handling differing viewpoints respectfully requires good communication and interpersonal skills.
  3. Book Selection: Not every book chosen by the club will appeal to all members. Sometimes, members may have to read books they do not enjoy, which can dampen enthusiasm.

Dos and Don’ts for a Successful Book Club 📜

Dos:

  • Be Respectful: Respect others’ opinions and contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Be Open-Minded: Be willing to explore different genres and authors, even if they are outside your comfort zone.
  • Communicate: Share your thoughts and listen actively to others. Good communication is key to a successful book club experience.

Don’ts:

  • Dominate Discussions: Allow everyone a chance to speak and avoid monopolising conversations.
  • Be Disrespectful: Avoid dismissing others’ opinions or engaging in heated arguments.
  • Criticise Personal Choices: Respect that not everyone will enjoy the same books and that personal preferences vary.

Conclusion 🌍
Joining a book club can be a deeply rewarding experience, offering opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, and intellectual stimulation. By understanding the pros and cons and adhering to best practices, members can make the most of their book club experience and foster a love for reading that goes beyond the confines of the group. Whether you’re an avid reader or someone looking to rediscover the joy of reading, a book club can provide the perfect platform to enrich your literary journey.

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Headed Abroad? 10 Last-Second Savers…

Here’s a checklist to avoid last-minute travel mishaps and save some cash while you’re at it:

1. Passport Power: Double-check that validity! 🌍 Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Don’t get caught out by the “10-year rule.”

2. European Health Essentials: Traveling to Europe? 🏥 Ensure everyone in your family has a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) for medical emergencies.

3. The Rebooking Rebate: 💸 Did you know you can sometimes snag a better deal by rebooking your hotel or car hire? Check their websites closer to your trip date – you might be surprised!

4. Flight Woes? Know Your Rights: ✈️ Bookmark important airline and regulatory body webpages on your phone. If your flight gets cancelled or delayed, you might be entitled to compensation upwards of £200 per person.

5. Car Hire Conundrum: 🚗 Don’t fall prey to expensive add-on insurance at the car rental pick-up counter. Research beforehand and decline politely if their offer doesn’t suit you.

6. Local Laws & Quirks: 📜 Flip-flops in public? A dip in the fountain? Believe it or not, some seemingly harmless holiday habits can land you in hot water. Research local laws and customs before you go to avoid a nasty surprise.

7. Park & Fly Savvy: 🅿️ Don’t wait until the last minute! Book your airport parking in advance – even on the day of departure – to potentially score a better rate.

8. Plastic Fantastic? Watch the Conversion: 💳 When using your debit or credit card abroad, always choose to pay in the local currency. This avoids hidden fees associated with dynamic currency conversion.

9. Roaming Charges: Don’t Get Stingy: 📱 Several mobile networks now charge daily fees for using your phone and data package in Europe. Avoid hefty charges by opting for a prepaid local SIM card upon arrival.

10. Master Money Abroad: 💼 For the ultimate in spending power, consider a specialist overseas card. These cards offer near-perfect exchange rates, just like the banks do, but often with added perks like cashback in both the UK and abroad. Essentially, you can get better than the perfect exchange rate and save even more!

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Why CEOs Should Care About Customer Service: Unlocking Employee Benefits and Boosting Customer Retention

In today’s hyper-competitive business landscape, exceptional customer service is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

CEOs and business leaders must prioritize customer service to not only enhance customer satisfaction but also to improve employee benefits and ensure customer retention. Companies like World Privilege Plus are at the forefront of this revolution, offering solutions that bridge the gap between excellent customer service and robust employee benefits. Here’s why every CEO should invest in stellar customer service and how it contributes to overall business success.

The Link Between Customer Service and Employee Benefits
High-quality customer service is intrinsically linked to employee satisfaction. When employees are empowered with the right tools and benefits, they are more motivated to provide exceptional service. Companies that invest in employee benefits see a marked improvement in their customer service metrics. For instance, providing employees with comprehensive benefits through programs like World Privilege Plus not only boosts morale but also equips them with the resources they need to excel in their roles.

Longtail keywords: employee benefits programs, comprehensive employee benefits, World Privilege Plus employee benefits, benefits of employee motivation.

Enhancing Employee Satisfaction
Employee benefits programs are more than just a perk; they are a strategic tool to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to delivering excellent customer service. World Privilege Plus offers a variety of benefits that can significantly enhance employee satisfaction, such as exclusive discounts, health and wellness programs, and financial incentives. Happy employees are the backbone of great customer service, leading to higher customer retention rates.

Longtail keywords: employee satisfaction strategies, exclusive employee discounts, health and wellness programs for employees, financial incentives for employees.

Boosting Customer Retention
Customer retention is a critical metric for any business. The cost of acquiring new customers is significantly higher than retaining existing ones. Excellent customer service is a key driver of customer loyalty and retention. Customers who receive outstanding service are more likely to return and recommend the company to others. CEOs must recognize that investing in customer service is a long-term strategy that pays off in the form of loyal customers and increased revenue.

Longtail keywords: customer retention strategies, benefits of customer retention, customer loyalty programs, World Privilege Plus customer retention.

Leveraging Technology for Better Service
Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing customer service. With the right technological tools, businesses can streamline their customer service processes, making them more efficient and effective. World Privilege Plus leverages technology to provide a seamless experience for both employees and customers. This includes intuitive platforms for accessing benefits, real-time support, and personalized service offerings. By embracing technology, companies can stay ahead of the competition and provide unparalleled customer service.

Longtail keywords: customer service technology, leveraging technology for customer service, seamless customer service experience, personalized service offerings.

Conclusion
CEOs must understand the critical role of customer service in driving business success. By investing in comprehensive employee benefits and leveraging technology to enhance customer service, companies can achieve higher employee satisfaction and customer retention. World Privilege Plus offers the tools and solutions necessary to excel in these areas, making it an invaluable partner for any business looking to thrive in today’s competitive environment. Prioritizing customer service is not just good for business; it’s essential for long-term growth and success.

Longtail keywords: business success through customer service, comprehensive employee benefits and customer retention, World Privilege Plus business solutions, long-term business growth strategies.

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