February 1, 2008

Talking Points

Tired of giving the same old presentations? Use these nuggets of information to spruce them up.

Reported by PLANADVISER Staff

According to The Harris Poll, rising prices are a major “hassle” in Americans’ daily lives—but some are feeling that stress more than others, as 82% of Americans experienced rising prices in November. Although one-quarter of Americans (26%) say they have experienced a lot of stress, The Harris Poll says that geography may factor into this as fewer Midwesterners experienced “a lot’ of stress than their Eastern counterparts (22% vs. 32%).
A new survey by Consumer ReportsHealth.org found 45% of those polled planned to skip a 2008 flu shot. A package of stories on the Consumer Reports Health.org Web site said flu shot naysayers need to be more aware that obtaining the treatment is convenient, with half of those getting the shot this year doing so somewhere other than their doctor’s office. This included a walk-in clinic (14%) or a pharmacy (7%). A little less than a quarter of respondents get their shots at work. The Web site material said the shot also can be inexpensive. For 65% of respondents, the flu shot was free, in part because Medicare now covers it entirely. For others, 90% paid less than $30.
“Every one desires to live long, but no one would be old.”—Abraham Lincoln
The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.
00:00: 36: U.K. researchers have now determined the length—and content—of the “perfect” phone call. According to the research, sponsored by the Post Office, the perfect phone call should last nine minutes, 36 seconds—and contain a mix of chat about family news, current affairs, personal problems and the weather.
Despite the current economic climate, the vast majority (83%) of employers do not expect to reduce their level of employer contributions, according to a study by Mercer. Eighty-five percent of respondents reported they will likely enhance employee education and communication regarding investment choices, objectives, and options; 77% said they expect to review investment and administrative fees; and 75% of respondents will likely review their fund lineups.