Why Should You Download Utility Avenue?

 

utility avenue logo with peopleWhy Should You Download Utility Avenue?

Every time you run into a new online platform, the first questions that come to mind are “What is it?”, “Why should I use it?'” and How will it benefit me?”. The most significant doubt is “What’s the catch?” as some platforms will start with generous offers, and then they change their approach.

 When you find Utility Avenue, the questions just pop up in your head. 

Hey, we get it. 

We would be doing the same thing. We would wonder: “Is it secure and effective?”Is my information protected?”Is it easy to use?”.

Our team has addressed these concerns. That is why it is our duty and our pleasure to give you a list of reasons why you should use our platform.

First of all, what is Utility Avenue? Utility Avenue is a community marketplace for you to turn your skills and hobbies into income, and to find service providers easily. It barely consumes battery, data, memory, or space. It allows you to use it efficiently, with speed, quality, and comfort.

There is no intermediary. 

A middleman controls the price and keeps providers and customers from making the transaction directly. Well, Utility Avenue IS NOT a middleman. As a result, prices drop to fair amounts. It also gives you total control of who renders the service. As the customer, you choose. 

There is no trick  

What you see is what you get, meaning that only government taxes and merchant fees will be added to the price. If there is an increase in price, it has to be negotiated directly with the provider. This will give you financial protection, and also the autonomy to decide whether you hire that particular provider or not.

 There is direct client-provider communication. 

With Utility Avenue, there will always be direct client-provider contact. That way, you can explain your request before choosing a provider. You will not be dealing with a computer, but with a person, so the services get humanized.

It is transparent

Providers are companies with a tax ID, something that makes them more responsible and protects you. Furthermore, both customers and providers have full access to the same app, so there is no catch.

 It is secure

Security is another primary concern, and Utility Avenue has understood the importance of providing high security. It does not store credit/debit card information. The app uses Braintree for process payments, so privacy is protected. Finally, Utility Avenue uses Firebase from Google. Anyone trying to hack the app will have to hack Google itself, not Utility Avenue. So, your banking information and your personal information are more than secured.

All of the above. Why not? 

Reasons why you should download Utility Avenue

Just think for a second. All of the above gives you enough reason for you to, at least, give it a try. Thanks to all the guarantees Utility Avenue provides, there is nothing to lose and a lot to gain. While it helps you find providers for the services you might need, you can also become a provider and promote yourself on the platform. That way, you will also be able to turn your skills and hobbies into extra income.

Frank Sonnenberg, in Soul Food: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life, said, “If you don’t try, you forfeit the opportunity.” Give yourself a chance and use the platform. The results will help you decide.

 Next week, we will let you know the benefits Utility Avenue brings you as a provider.

Spotlight: Natasha Knutson Events

Utility Avenue is a platform for business owners to promote and scale their businesses. Like Robert Ingersoll, we believe we rise by lifting others. So, we have created this spotlight to encourage local businesses every week.

Today, we give you Natasha Knutson, from Natasha Knutson Events!

Natasha Knutson Events event planner

Who is Natasha Knutson? How did everything start?

I am the owner of Natasha Knutson Events: the mom of two little girls who wanted to follow her passion for design and decor and do something in life that my girls can look up to. I have always had a keen interest in event design and decor. What started as a passion for event planning turned into a business opportunity. Once I decided that it was time to head back to work, I wanted to do something that would make me happy, and I could see myself doing for the rest of my career. Event planning was the ideal choice for me because it brings me joy and fulfillment.

What aspects of your background have helped you the most?

Growing up, my mom would always throw us lavish birthday parties taking care of the most minute details. All the kids wanted to attend, and people would talk about how amazing these parties were for months on end. She also had a knack for design. People would always ask her for her opinion and help with events, decor, and even outfits. I would sit and listen to what she would suggest. It always amazed me how she made everything look so perfect. My mom would throw herself in with all her soul on all of her projects. She is my inspiration.

At the beginning, which were the main challenges?

Starting a business from the ground up is challenging. To bring all the ideas that are floating in your brain to a cohesive business plan is the first step. One of my biggest challenges was figuring out what works for my business, what the market needs are, and how best to present them to potential clients. 

Who was the most supportive of your idea?

I have been incredibly lucky to have so much support from friends and family. They encouraged me to start my business and have helped me with every step. They are my biggest cheerleaders, and I wouldn’t be here without their faith in me to succeed. 

Who is your primary target audience?

Anyone who is planning an event is our target audience. Be it a wedding, a corporate event, a baby shower, or any other event someone needs to take to the next level. We are here to make your event a success. All the while, making sure the host is enjoying every moment along with their guests.   

With all the competition in the world right now, what makes your offer unique?

In the Event Planning Business, understanding what your client wants and bringing it to life is what makes you unique. It is the relationship that you have with your client that helps you create their big day exactly how they envisioned it.

If you could go back in time, would you change anything

I think about this a lot. I should have started this business a long time ago, but I always afraid of not succeeding, wondering how well my business would be received. We let our fears hold us back so much sometimes, and I just wish I had jumped into this business a lot sooner.  

What challenges do you see ahead of you?

Given the current situation with Covid-19, there is uncertainty about how things would be soon. People are canceling events and celebrations, and things look a little bleak, but I also see the light at the end of the tunnel. People love to celebrate and have a great time. We can’t keep away from these celebrations for a very long time. Once the virus settles, we will be back up and, hopefully, come back stronger.

Have you used Utility Avenue? How would you describe your experience with the platform?

We have used Utility Avenue to interact directly with our potential clients. We can reach a significant number of potential clients and have been able to answer their questions and have had clients book us via Utility Avenue. It is an excellent resource for small business owners looking for new clients.

Would you like to send a message to your followers?

Follow your heart and if you need help with your events give us a call 😉

 Natasha Knutson Events’ Contact Info

 

Natasha Knutson Events Baby shower cake

Event planning for a Baby Shower Decoration

Event planning for a baby shower

baby shower decoration with teaPhoto credit: Odette Photo+Art

The Remote Newbie Guide to Work-From-Home

Utility Avenue website on a workplace

 

Work from home is the new normal. With the coronavirus pandemic going on, we have gotten caught in what seems like a scene of Outbreak. It looks way too sci-fi, but it’s real. We are all in an unexpected situation where working remotely has become an everyday thing.

Truth is: adjusting to working from home can be challenging. Good thing? You don’t have to spend two hours a day stuck in traffic (who likes that?), and you are in the comfort of your own house. But that can also be a little too distracting, mainly if you do not live alone. 

Last week, we posted ten work-from-home job ideas for you to make money. This week, we will give you ten hacks for adjusting to the new normal and being more productive. If you are a remote newbie, this is for you.

The Newbie Guide to Work-From-Home Hack

Design a weekly schedule:

not only a to-do list but also a timetable so you can organize your time and optimize it. Focus on three main tasks a day: the ones that you NEED to do. Set goals and stick to them, but don’t be too harsh on yourself when there is a detour. Life happens.

Change clothes:

Dress like you are going to work or, at least, wear a casual outfit, because you may have to video chat potential clients or coworkers. Also, there is something psychological about changing your pj’s that makes you feel “ready”. Even better if you wear shoes!

Create a dedicated workspace:

It should be comfortable, but also work-centered. Also, set boundaries with your family/roommates. They need to understand that, while you are at your “office”, you should not be interrupted. 

Stay connected:

Make sure that your internet is working correctly and stay in touch with your team so everyone is on the same page in getting the tasks done. You can also use organizational and productivity tools

Take breaks:

Some people set their alarms, so they take their breaks. We suggest doing it. Try the Pomodoro method to be more productive. Short breaks can help you catch your breath to start over again. Don’t forget to take coffee/cigarette breaks when you need them.  Also, make sure that you have lunch at the appropriate time.

Play music:

Some people who have been working from home for years even suggest that you turn on the TV and put the volume down so you hear something since working from home can become rather silent.

Stay active:

Sitting on the computer all day can be detrimental to your health. So, try to get some physical activity: either by having a workout regime or by walking around the house. If you like yoga, we recommend Yoga with Adriene. Simply, the best.

Separate work from home and vice versa:

A right work/life balance is essential. Even if it’s hard, try to do your chores beforehand, so you are not thinking about them when you work. At the same time, when your workday is over, the “office” has to be shut down.

Socialize:

Even if it is via cell phone or video chat, socialize with your friends. That helps you disconnect from work and bring some joy and entertainment to your life. You can also host a virtual happy with your colleagues!

Spend quality time with your family:

Once work is over, remember that your family has been all day eager to spend some time with you. Have dinner together, talk, watch a movie. It will help your mental state to get ready for the next day. For self-love and self-care routines, check this article.

More than anything, keep in mind that you have control of things in your house, so whatever you can do will always depend on yourself and how you get things organized.

10 Best Work-From-Home Jobs to Make Money Now

work from home jobs

10 Best Work-From-Home Jobs to Make Money Now

With the coronavirus pandemic spreading throughout the world, many have lost their jobs in the last few weeks and 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment. Since social distancing is key for flattening the curve, work-from-home jobs are the best solution.

If you can use technology to make some profit, the time is now. This way, you could cover any income gap you might be experiencing.

Here, there are the best ten work-from-home jobs we found:

1- Virtual assistant

Do you have any marketable skills? Do you have good communication skills? Can you provide any type of virtual assistance to people? You can become a virtual assistant. From bookkeeping, to technical support, people need guidance and they are willing to pay for it. Don’t be shy, market your tools and be ready to use them. Stay online and be fast to respond to all requests of potential clients.

2- Translator

Are you fluent in more than one language? Do your grammatical skills pair with those of your mother tongue? Are you a good writer? If the answer to these questions is yes, you can work from home as a translator. With the help of the Internet and automated translation tools, you can enhance your translation skills. You can also enter discussion groups and forums to debate about better ways to translate certain terms.

3- Tutor

Are you personable? Do you have skills teaching others and explaining things to make them look simpler? You can start tutoring online. As schools are still closed, kids will need tutoring. You can provide tutoring through video chat. Your knowledge will not be the only thing you can provide, as you can also recommend different sources for your students to read and research.

4- Bookkeeper

Do you have knowledge in accounting? Are you good at spreadsheets? Do you know how to deduct money flows and keep track of it? Those are requirements that can make you really good at bookkeeping. Keeping records of people’s transactions—mainly from the business standpoint—is something that can be done from home. Make sure your clients keep you briefed on all transactions, and keep track of all operations.

5- Tax preparer

If you have knowledge of accounting and making tax reports is something that comes easily for you, maybe it is time to start monetizing those skills. Preparing other people’s taxes is not an easy task, and getting paid for it will require even more attention and caution, but you can definitely do it. Get all the information from your clients, double-check with them and stay in constant communication via phone or chat.

6- Video editor

You love video. But more than that, you love playing with video editing software and are really good at it. For years, you have been making carefully-edited videos of every family celebration. Now, haven’t you thought about creating professionally mixed photos and videos for people that might need them? Video editing only requires you to have the software to do it, and a lot of creativity. If you want to know which are the best top 6 free video editing software, check this article.

7- Online shopper

Are you good at finding special products online? Do you know how to make a value assessment of the price and the quality of the product? Do you know which online store sells what people actually need? Those are skills that can be marketed since some people have problems finding what they really need online. As some services might collapse in the upcoming days, you can become more necessary and useful. Be sure to engage with clients and try to understand what they really need so you can come up with the best deal for them. They will appreciate it.

8- Programmer

If you are good with source code and program languages, you can market those skills online. While some companies are postponing their projects, others are still up and running and a good programmer is always necessary. Think of those who had personal projects that required good IT to put together, and they had not done it because they were too busy. Now they are at home and you might be exactly what they are looking for.

9- Medical interpreter

Are you fluently bilingual and have medical knowledge? This comes in handy in the current scenario. Many patients will get to the Emergency Rooms with very low or zero English communication skills. Stay on a hotline or make sure that your WhatsApp is active to take any calls at any given time. You can either be on call 24 hours a day or simply narrow your services down to a certain timeframe. In any case, be ready to work.

10- Community manager

Are you a social media geek? Do you handle Facebook, Twitter, and every other social media swiftly? Do you enjoy interacting with groups and connecting with people through hashtags? Those are skills that will make you a very good community manager. Businesses are not the only ones that need a Community Manager, since they can work for schools, hospitals, media outlets, etc. There might be a job for you out there!

Final thoughts about work-from-home jobs

When you decide which service, or services, you can provide, create the conditions to start working. First of all, make sure you have everything you need: a fully functional computer, all the programs you need, and Internet access. Second, create a schedule to optimize time. Then, organize your workspace, make a nice cup of coffee or tea, or play some music. If there are harmony and peace around you, you will have ensured a better chance for success.

While you create new ways to provide income for you and your family, just be safe. If you need the platform to promote your new services and market your skills online, Utility Avenue gives you the solution.

Utility Avenue is a community marketplace where you can turn your hobbies and skills into services so you can start making money right now.

Utility Avenue: Dreyker Friman

 

Dreyker, cofounder of Utility Avenue and his son

 

This week, we present Dreyker, another member of the founding team of Utility Avenue.

My name is Dreyker.

Nobody but my father knew where my name came from. He wrote it down on the top of a match pack the day I was born. I love it, though. I’m from a brave Cuban city called Bayamo. I grew up surrounded by family love. My parents taught me how sharing what I’ve got could make me a good human being. I really learned that from them at a young age.

When I was a little boy, I was always eager to know how things work or function (I still am). I was always in trouble because my toys’ lifetime was very short. As I was getting older, I felt the need to change things, make them better, easier to use, and make them affordable for everyone.

I started sketching things I thought needed improvement, and eventually, I became what I am today: a designer.

Utility Avenue: Alexander Sanchez

Alexander Sanchez

My name is Alexander Sanchez Silva (tongue-in-cheek names when it comes to signing my initials).

I was born and raised in Cuba. I lived there until I was old and wise enough to understand that fulfilling dreams there was next to impossible. One day, I looked 90 miles up north, where pursuing happiness was licit, inspiring, and possible. Like many professionals of my generation, I realized that all my hard work, university titles, and commitments weren’t enough to excel in life, let alone to use my full potential.

Then, as life was at full speed, the energy steaming up and my mind about to burst, I made the timely decision to plow the ocean and sail to my future.

My friends and I, literally in the same boat, set sail one night over 12 years ago en-route to the US. All I had with me was a backpack full of dreams (and some Cuban cigars & rum) and the courage to either make it and start over or die trying. Thankfully, after six nerve-racking days and five stormy nights, we ran ashore, right here in Miami.

In my biography More than 90 Miles, I tell it all about our adventure.

Since then, I’ve been working hard to make all my dreams come true. Some of them have unfolded, some have mutated, and some are still in the making. It has been quite an exciting ride filled with surprises, lessons, setbacks, emotions, experiences, gratitude, anger, empathy, and love.

For me, helping others has been of great importance. When you help people get ahead, you’re fueling your best YOU. The influence is permanent. That’s why this down-to-earth project, Utility Avenue, has me so hooked up.

 

Alex Family

 

I follow three rules: Do the right thing, do the best you can, and always show people you care
Lou Holtz

Utility Avenue: Odette Fernandez Lopez

Odette Fernandez Lopez

Odette Photo+Art

 

I am Odette Fernandez Lopez. Me in a nutshell? I am a portrait photographer, translator, dreamer, doer. All those paths led me here.

I was born in Russia, from Cuban parents. I lived most of my life in Cuba and moved to the States after a too-brief, but too happy, stay in Canada. Never thought I would end up living here, but here I am.

My family and my friends are my biggest treasures. Today, I’m strong because my mom raised me. I’m resilient because my sister looks up to me, and I must deserve it. They are the family Life gave me, but we’re also best friends. That is such an incredible gift! And my friends make me be a better person.

My grampa used to say that knowledge takes no space, and that’s my mantra.

I believe in the power of self-education. I like to learn something new every single day and inspire people to be their best selves. That’s my biggest drive in life: to inspire and be inspired.

Oh, and I have a severe case of wanderlust!

I can unequivocally say that I am becoming the woman I have always wanted to be. All it takes is dedication, consistency, and long nights. After all, sleeping is overrated.

I am just kidding.

Not.

I just want to live passionately, focusing on what makes me sing inside. Photography and Utility Avenue are my passions. Photography feeds my artistic soul because I like documenting life as it unfolds, and UA has shaped me into a more committed, consistent, and disciplined person.

I genuinely believe Utility Avenue is the beginning of an era. It will change the lives of many, as it has changed mine.

I can’t wait to see where life takes me.

In the end, what matters is the lives we touch.

www.odettephotoart.com

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Utility Avenue: Ana Madalys Cedeño

Ana Madalys Cedeño

Last week, we presented Armando Milanés, one of our co-founders. This week, it’s Ana Madalys Cedeño’s turn.

Ana Madalys

My name is Ana Madalys Cedeño Reyes.

I was born in Cuba.

Ana means “beneficent, compassionate, full of grace.” Kindness and sweetness always made me very popular. I can not complain because I made the best friends I could ever have.

My parents had me baptized at age 12 because they thought I would decide what to believe once I was ready. I come from a humble family where everyone has a passion for health and for healing the sick. I used to play doctor since I was a little girl. When I grew up, I decided to become a doctor and graduated as a Doctor of Medicine in 2006.

But it’s never too late to start again and reinvent yourself. Being an entrepreneur is not about age. In each stage of life, we can rediscover different opportunities to do new things to love. That’s when the idea of ​​being part of Utility Avenue came to my life. It is such an inspiring project, led by young people: full of values and willing to improve the lives of many.

Today’s Valentine’s Day and, do you know what is most important to me? LOVE! Without it, we are nobody. I love life, and above all, Family!

Thanks for allowing me to share a little bit about me with you.

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