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Vaudeville Performer

Skill Level: Easy

Look: Conservative to moderate depending on what you choose to wear. This one is super glamorous and great for most office events.

What You’ll Need: Black eyeshadow, red lipstick, foundation and concealer that matches your skin tone, a sparkly headband, hair pins, a furry scarf or feather boa.

Hey Ladies, this one is super and most of you might already have many of these items in your arsenal! Starting with a fresh face, even out your skin tone with your choice of foundation and conceal problem areas. Using a dark brown or black eyeshadow, create a smoky eye and finish with a red lip. When filling in your lips, make sure to only fill in the center of your lips and leave the corners nude. The Clara Bow Lip was a big fashion trend in the 1920’s and is a super fun details to add to your look! Finish with a headband across your forehead. For longer hair, you can tuck your strands around the headband and secure with pins for a cropped look. You can also make DIY feathers out of construction paper and use the headband to hold them in place.

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Sweeney Todd

Skill Level: Intermediate- Advanced

Look: Moderate- Intense. This look requires a bit of makeup skill. Depending on how heavily you shadow your frown lines, this look can vary from moderate to Intense.

What You’ll Need: White face powder, brown eye shadow, black eye liner pencil (for sideburns), white chalk, fine tooth comb (for teasing hair) , hair spray, white collared shirt, neck scarf, brown or black blazer, dress pants to match.

The demon barber makes his way to the office with this awesome makeup-only Halloween costume. This one is great for the more liberal and creative work environment, but takes a little bit of makeup talent. Start with a semi sheer white face powder, like this one from Manic Panic. Next, scrunch your face to identify where you have natural frown lines. Fill in with brown eye shadow for a furrowed and aged look. Darken your eyes with the same brown eyeshadow to create a sunken effect. For the white hair streak, dampen hair with water and rub in classic white chalk. Bust out a white collared shirt, a neck scarf and a blazer and you’re ready for the shave of a lifetime!

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Wednesday Addams

Skill Level: Easy

Look: Moderate look. Good for most office parties and easy to do at your desk.

What You’ll Need: Foundation that matches your skin tone (optional), black eyeliner, brown shadow, black lipstick, 2 hair ties, a black sweater and a white button down shirt.

This goth look is perfect for brunettes with longer hair. For this look, eye makeup is kept simple with a thinly lined upper lid and a little bit of brown shadow in the crease. The drama comes in the black lipstick (creeeepy!) Part hair in the middle and gather into two braids. Using a little bit of black eyeliner, create a widow’s peak and fill into the hair line. Wednesday Adams always wore her signature black dress and white collared shirt, so anything black and conservative will do!

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Spider Queen/ King

Skill Level: Advanced

Look: Intense. This look requires makeup application skills as well as a crafty hand. For those who seek a challenge, this one will definitely make an impression. Great for the more liberal and creative office with a sense of humor.

What You’ll Need: White face powder, black and brown eyeshadow, black eye liner, false lashes, eyelash glue, black mascara, black lipstick, plastic decorating spiders, hair tie, and a black turtle neck. For the headpiece: 2 foam balls, hot glue gun, Q-Tips, black paint, sponge detailing brush (to paint with), thumb tacks, head band.

We love this creepy DIY look, but it requires a bit more creative aptitude. For the makeup portion, start with an intense smoky eye and finish with a black lip. Make sure to pick up a bag of plastic decorating spiders at your local drugstore or costume store. Use eyelash glue to strategically place these little guys all over your face. For the giant spider hat, make sure to make this in advance as this is not something that can be easily done at your desk. Paint all of your parts first and assemble the legs using 3 Q-tips per leg (8 legs in total). Strip the cotton from of one end of each leg and pierce it into the foam body to secure. Once complete, secure the spider onto the headband using Krazy glue and there you have it!

For a step by step tutorial on how to create this spider, tune into our Facebook Live event happening later today! (Thursday, Oct 27th @ 4pm.)

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Mary Poppins

Skill Level: Easy

Look: Conservative. Super simple. This costume is more about the accessories than the makeup, leaving your face clean-up free!

What You’ll Need: Red lipstick, neutral palette eyeshadows (optional), white collared shirt, red bowtie, black hat, loose false flowers (for hat), white gloves, black umbrella, a long full skirt.

This look is great in a more conservative office environment. For this look, keep eye makeup natural and simple by using skin complementing earth tones. Add a classic red lip and gather hair into a loose, low chignon bun. Mary Poppins always wore a little black hat with flowers and classic white gloves. You can ask a friend to borrow theirs or head to Spirit Halloween to pick these up on the cheap. Add a white button up, a red bowtie and you’ll look supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

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Kramer

Skill Level: Easy

Look: Conservative. This look puts more emphasis on your wardrobe choice and how you style your hair. No makeup required except for sideburns which are optional!

What You’ll Need: The tackiest shirt you own, khaki or brown blazer, jeans, fine toothed comb (for teasing your hair), lots and lots of hair spray. smoking pipe and eyeliner (optional for sideburns).

This one’s for all of the guys out there who might be overdue for a haircut. Put all that overgrowth to good use with this Kramer costume. Bust out your loudest button down and blazer, slick back the sides of your hair and tease up the top. This classic character will instantly come to life and is an office favorite!

Here are some fun behind the scenes clips of our super fun Halloween shoot! What are you guys planning to be this Halloween? Send us your costume ideas! We’d love to hear from you!

Behind the Scenes

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The post 6 Last-Minute Halloween Party Looks Sure to Make Em’ Scream! appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

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Lorell Box/Box/File Mobile Pedestal

This type of filing cabinet is perfect to move around the office. Mobile pedestal offers a box/box/file drawer configuration for plenty of space for filing and supplies. Factory-installed, core-removable lock secures all drawers. Steel ball-bearing, drawer suspension delivers smooth drawer access to the file drawer. File drawer accommodates letter-size hanging folders with tabs. Drawer fronts have color-matched, recessed handles.

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Lorell Lateral File

36″ wide lateral file features a roll-out binder storage/posting shelf and four drawers with hanging file rails for side-to-side filing in letter-size, legal-size or A4-size for versatility. Each drawer has a magnetic label holder for easy identification where you need it. Design also features a core-removable lock for security, dual locking bars, full-width pull, ball-bearing slide suspension for smooth opening and closing, reinforced base, and four adjustable leveling guides for stabilization.  This one is great for large office that use shared files.

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HON Brigade 600 Series Lateral File

This two-drawer lateral file offers exceptional construction with double-walled base for maximum rigidity. Baked enamel finish over rust-inhibiting, phosphate pretreatment adds more durability. Telescoping, ball-bearing suspension delivers remarkably smooth drawer operation. Drawers accommodate letter-size or legal-size folders from side-to-side with included adjustable hang rails. This one is great for small medical offices or private practices.

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HON 510 Series Vertical File

Commercial-grade vertical file features four drawers, full-cradle suspension, up to 10 nylon rollers to ensure smooth quiet operation, and a “One Key” interchangeable, core-removable lock. High drawer sides accommodate hanging folders. Adjustable-wire follower blocks keep the files upright. Drawers feature bright aluminum pulls, label holders and a thumb latch. This one is great for narrow offices and maximizes upward storage.

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HON 510 Series Vertical File

Commercial-grade vertical file features two drawers, full-cradle suspension, up to 10 nylon rollers to ensure smooth quiet operation, and a “One Key” interchangeable, core-removable lock. High drawer sides accommodate hanging folders. Adjustable-wire follower blocks keep the files upright. Drawers feature bright aluminum pulls, label holders and a thumb latch. Aweosme for a home office.

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Smead FasTab® Hanging Folders

FasTab Hanging Folders feature built-in, heavy-duty, two-ply tabs that are permanently attached. You won’t have to bother with inserting the right size tabs. These 1/3-cut tabs are 20 percent larger than standard 1/3-cut tabs for more label room and easy viewing. No assembly is required. Tabs are easy to label. Write directly on the tab or apply self-adhesive labels.

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Smead Hanging Classification Folders

Heavy-duty folders with folding hangers are the perfect solution for portable files. Simply remove whatever files you need from your hanging file drawer. Fold down the folding hangers and you have a classification folder ready-to-go. Simply turn hangers and replace in file drawer when finished. Gusset is made of matching Tyvek tape and expands up to 2″. These are great for medical offices.

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Smead Hanging Box Bottom Folders

Computer printouts, manuals, catalogs, telephone books or any other bulky material will fit neatly into these hanging box bottom folders. Reinforced bottom with Pressboard strip keeps contents straight and prevents bulging. Folders are made of 11 point stock. Folders do not include tabs.

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Pendaflex Hanging File Folders

Categorize subjects and count on the lighter interior color to help prevent misfiles. Includes letter-size, printer-ready inserts to use with the clear tabs included. All critical wear points are polylaminate reinforced for extra durability, providing exceptional tear and fold strength.

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Pendaflex Poly Laminate Hanging Folders

Look no further for one of the smartest, most innovative hanging folders around. Features SureHook technology with revolutionary built-in tension springs. Rods bend less while folders stay on rails and slide with ease. Rods and hooks are stronger and sturdier. Folders work with existing systems. Patented polylaminate reinforced tops and bottoms provide strength. Lighter interior colors help prevent misfiles.

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Smead SuperTab® Fastener Folders

Supertab Fastener Folders offer nearly double the labeling area of standard folders so you can use larger text or more lines of description. Use with any vertical or lateral filing system. Folders are made of 11 point stock. Use two fasteners in positions No. 1 and 3 to subdivide the folder and separate documents for storage.

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Smead 100% Recycled End Tab Manila Fastener Folders

Folders with fasteners are made with a high percentage of recycled material and acid-free materials. Excellent for archived files. Folders feature a double thick tab for strength and durability. Straight-cut tabs with 1/2″ width have embossed lines for easy application of color-coded labels. Double-thick tab provides extra strength.

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Smead Manila File Jackets

With a 2″ expansion, these manila file jackets are designed for storing charts, photos and bulky documents that do not fit traditional file folders. Letter-size file jackets are closed on three sides for document security. Full-height sides keep materials from slipping out, making this a great file for taking documents out of the office.

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Smead End Tab Manila and Colored Classification Folders

Classification folders make ideal project files because they allow you to create subdivisions of material within one folder. Fasteners on the front and back panels and the dividers create separate filing surfaces. Folders expand 2″. Interlocking two-ply tab is 1/2″ high and embossed for label placement. Two 2″ prong B-style fasteners are in positions No. 1 and 3. Folders are made of 14 point colored stock with matching Tyvek tape.

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Smead File Folders

An office necessity in a variety of tab cuts for every filing need. This product was made using wood sourced from a certified managed forest. This style is great of you’re looking for a modest filing option.

The post The Best File Folders for Every Filing Solution appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

A demographic turning point in US history is right around the corner. In the year 2030 all baby boomers will be older than 65 and 1 in 5 residents will be retirement age. The projected result is older people outnumbering children for the very first time. While extended life expectancy in recent years is something to be celebrated, it also brings about a lot of questions about how we can make ends meet and provide proper elder care.

The average resident at an assisted living facility pays $4,000/month and nursing homes can cost up to $275 per day! Considering the average household income is $56,516, most of us find it alarming that senior care can cost $48k – $100k a year. This leaves many people with the option of doing what’s feasible and within their means by caring for their loved ones at home. The majority of elderly people prefer this option and you can lift some of the burden on yourself by having part-time home care professionals step in to assist at a level that meets your family’s needs. However, this requires some legwork on your part and factors like mobility & incontinence need to be considered.

One of the biggest concerns that comes to mind is: Can I keep my family member safe & comfortable? The National Council on Aging found that 75% of seniors have at least 1 chronic health condition and most have 2 or more. This requires you to adjust your environment to accommodate for these conditions. But not to worry, we’ve found some affordable medical products  that can be easily installed in your home to cater to handicaps and reduce your health-related worries.

The CDC reported in 2016 that in a given year about 25% of Americans seniors fall down, which is the leading cause of senior injury and death. Statistics show that the bathroom can be the most dangerous room within the home, with two-thirds of falls occurring while bathing or showering. Additionally, falling once doubles your chances of falling again.

The Medline Basic Shower Chair with Back is a top pick for avoiding painful falls in the shower. Textured, blow-molded polyethylene seats have built-in hand holes to provide extra safety and angled legs distribute weight over a large area to increase patient stability. The durable anodized aluminum frame is rust resistant so you don’t have to worry about replacement down the road. Take some time to browse shower & bath chairs to make sure yours fits your family’s unique health requirements.

Slips and falls in bathtubs and showers were found to be the most frequent type of accident. There are available products that can assist in a safe transition and improve stability. Shower mats are recommended for better traction and grab bars can be strategically affixed on bathroom walls to provide additional support.

Sitting and standing is often destabilizing for seniors. There are  number of toilet safety frames and accessories which can make this a less vulnerable experience, including the Drive Medical Toilet Safety Frame featured above. This particular product is a popular option because of its padded armrests & tool-free assembly.

Approximately 13 million Americans are incontinent, most of which are elderly females. About 80% of those affected by urinary incontinence can be partially or entirely cured. Despite the high success rates in treatment, only 8% seek help. While the topic may be sensitive, recognizing it and seeing a doctor can end a lot of stress and shame often tied to incontinence issues. Most commonly, treatment involves a medication, behavioral modification, pelvic muscle re-education & incontinence products. Make sure to speak to your doctor about potential causes of incontinence, which often are:

• Weak or overactive bladder muscles
• Weak pelvic floor muscles
• Mobility impairment
• Urinary Tract issues
• Cognitive Impairment
• Cancer
• Stroke
• Damage to nerves that control the bladder from diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease
• Diseases such as arthritis that may make it difficult to get to the bath­room in time
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Prostate-related issues (males)

A surprising amount of medications are administered via a needle or syringe which comes along with some basic requirements regarding disposal. The FDA recommends the following 2 step process for properly disposing of used needles and other sharps:

• Place all needles and other sharps in a sharps disposal container immediately after they have been used.
• Dispose of used sharps disposal containers according to your community guidelines.

For more information specific to your state, call Safe Needle Disposal at 1-800-643-1643 or e-mail info@safeneedledisposal.org. Information they can provide for your state includes:

• types of sharps containers that can be used
• disposal programs in your area
• how to label your sharps disposal containers
• how to secure the lid of your sharps disposal container
• whether sharps disposal containers can be thrown away in the common trash

The slowing down of the immune system with age makes living in a clean and sterile environment increasingly important. However, research has shown that certain cleaning products may put you in a worse situation than you started in. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reviewed 2,000 household cleaning products in 2012 and found that 53% of cleaning products contain ingredients harmful to the lungs, and 22% of cleaning products contain chemicals known to cause asthma in otherwise healthy people. Luckily, there are more friendly options on the market such as the Green Works line by Clorox and Seventh Generation products . These brands provide alternatives to more harmful cleaning solutions, laundry detergents & more. As an added bonus, you’ll be helping the environment in the process of caring for your loved one!

Unfortunately, the average person will not be able to watch a senior 100% of the time. Medical Alert Systems can provide added assurance to families with an elderly person who still wants to retain some of their independence. These systems range from services that call a family member when needed to monitors that can detect a fall and contact emergency services on your behalf. Consumer Reports provides an overview of features and associated costs so you can find the right product for your needs.

Patient alarms are a great solution for those who need to get the attention of someone in their own home. This option doesn’t come with the additional monthly fees that are typically tied to full-coverage medical alert systems.

Of all the nutrients tested in a recent CDC study, the most people had vitamin B6, iron, and vitamin D deficiencies. In addition to being cognizant of diet,  Nutritional Supplements & Vitamins can be a great additive.

As an example, approximately 90% of adults between the ages of 51 and 70 do not get enough vitamin D from their diet. Decreased sunlight exposure for those that are homebound is a contributing factor to this problem. While you could try to incorporate more fatty fish, egg yolks & beef liver, supplements are a much more accessible and controllable way to balance out your diet. As a point of reference, here is the recommended Vitamin D intake based on age:

• Age 1-70: 600 IU
• Age 71 and older: 800 IU

Your recommended intake might be more if you are at risk for osteoporosis. Maintaining strong bones is an important safety precaution in reducing injury. Deficiencies become more prevalent with old age so remember to have annual testing & talk to your doctor about which vitamins or supplements are best for you.

A 2016 study estimated over 20% of adults in the US had chronic pain, with 8% being classified as high-impact chronic pain. This level of pain is  severe enough that it regularly restricts basic life or work activities. These percentages increase with age as well as other factors. With over 50 million Americans looking for a solution to pain, it’s no surprise that pain killers are a $300 billion industry that has been rife with corruption and predatory behavior.

In recent years, the opioid issue has been upgraded to a full on epidemic crisis. About 21-29% of patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain misuse them. The term opioid encompasses a range of drugs ranging from codeine which is found in ordinary cold medicines, to heroin. While heroin seems like an extreme and unlikely path for the average person, it’s important to remember that about 80%t of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids. More than 130 people in the United States die after overdosing on opioids every day which has proven that opioids have produced a vicious cycle for those seeking relief and peace.

With new legal restrictions in place, doctors are more likely to think twice about the consequences of what they are prescribing. After seeing the facts, many patients are more than willing to shift away from prescription opioids to over-the counter pain relievers as a substitute. While most drugs are accompanied with some side effects, it’s important to weigh to pros and cons of your prescription intake. Talk to your doctor about which OTC medications are right for you so you can alleviate your valid concerns about addiction and withdrawal.

Make sure to do your due diligence by doing additional research about the specific conditions that plague your loved one for further guidance on safety improvements. Your doctor can also provide specific recommendations about health adjustments. For ease of access, any needed medical products can be ordered online and shipped directly to your door.

The post Safe & Comfortable Elderly Home Care appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

Printing Paper: This one is obvious and definitely an office supply essentials to have on your list. The best kind of paper you can get for your office is multipurpose paper. This holds true no matter the type of printer you have. The performance with most brands is almost always reliable and you’ll get a clean finish. Try to opt for brands who use FSC certified sources. This ensures that your paper comes from forests that are responsibly managed. We love Shoplet paper for this very reason. Our paper is FSC certified and eco friendly. It’s the perfect office paper that will have you coming back again and again.

Eco Friendly Writing Tools: Pens and pencils will always be office staples. Just make sure that what you choose to consume is of the sustainable variety. We love Pilot’s B2P line of gel pens which were once plastic water bottles. We’re also fans of Bic’s Ecolutions line of writing and correction tools. The wallet friendly prices are an additional selling point!

Cleaning Products and Wipes: Every office needs to be mindful of cleanliness, especially during the cold and flu season. Empower your staff to keep their personal spaces clean by offering up a container of cleaning wipes. At our offices, coworkers usually take a few minutes each week to sanitize their personal phones, keyboards or anything else with our favorite brands of wipes: the Clorox Green Works Wipes. Each employee gets their own container to keep at their desk and we have seen a dramatic improvement in upkeep. We’ve also seen a reduction in sick days taken by simply adding in these office supply essentials.

Legal Pads and Notebooks: Like every office, meetings are just a part of doing business as usual. Make sure to arm your staff with the tools they need to learn efficiently and to take notes. Having a stash of small notebooks or legal pads is one of those office supply must-haves that is a great way to keep your team organized and on top of things. We love Tops legal pads and Ampad legal pads. These office staples are super easy to store too since they can be stacked flat or upright.

Sticky Notes: Post-it notes are usually the brand of choice. These are great for their reliable performance and durability. Make sure to always have some of these around the office to help your team make note of tasks that might otherwise be forgotten.

Appointment books and calendars. Sure, having your Outlook calendar is great but sometimes a good hard copy of a calendar is something that can help an office run more smoothly. These types of appointment books are great for displaying in front of the conference room so employees can block out usage times; they’re also great for shared projects and planning. You can offer an assortment of classic appointment books, daily appointment books, weekly appointment books or cute calendars to be pinned on cubicles. Some of your employees simply might function better using an old school pen and paper. Make sure to offer your employees this option when buying office supplies online or anywhere!

Sharpie Calligraphy pens: Everyone needs a Sharpie. For the business set, it’s essential to at the very least have a stash of black sharpie markers on hand whenever one of your employees needs one. Sharpies come in an assortment of styles. Sharpie brush pens, chisel tip calligraphy pens or felt tip pens can all fit the bill in this category. Sharpie pens are perfect for labeling boxes, making notes stand out or virtually any other task that requires permanent bold ink.

5″x7″ index cards: Index cards have a multitude of uses. They are great for old school rolodexes, presentation notes that are more discreet than using a giant sheet of paper, or simply to jot down your to-do’s for the day. Every office should have at least one pack of these little guys. We like the 5″x7″ size since it can comfortably accommodate most jobs. If you’re looking for something a bit smaller, try index cards in 3″x5″. Colored index cards in 3″x5″ are also a nice alternative to classic white and offer the ability to color code.

Boston Paper Cutter or Paper Trimmer: This is especially true for those who work in the mailroom. Every good mailroom should have a paper folder, paper jogger, filing system and one of these to round out the assortment. Learning how to sharpen a paper cutter blade is also important so making sure to purchase a cutter that allows for this is key.

Staples, Tape and Paper Clips: Oh, the often overlooked paper binders. It’s only when we desperately need one of these office supply essentials that we realize their importance. Don’t be that person who is caught without a paperclip when you need it most. make sure to always have a stash of staples on hand. Every office has Swingline staplers so make sure to load up on Swingline staples 101-4, Swingline staples 101-5 c and arrow staples to be on the safe side.

Do you have any office supply essentials that are a must have for your office? Leave us a comment below and let us know what they are!

Adorable Office Pets to Inspire Your Day

Floral Office Supplies To Liven Up Your Desk

The Buyer’s Guide to Big And Tall Office Chairs

The post 10 Business Supply Essentials for a Productive Office appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

The Sparco Simulated Leather Pocket Folders are a great option for dropping off a resume that won’t get lost in the shuffle. The dark blue color coupled with the look of leather will give the professional appearance we are all aiming for when trying to land our dream job. The inside pocket contains a business card holder so you can show off further if you have cards handy. Additionally, the leather is simulated and the folder is recycled so you won’t offend anyone along the way. These resume folders come in at about a quarter a pop, so you don’t have to think twice about parting ways with them or breaking the bank in the process. All of these qualities make the Sparco Simulated Leather Folders a great option for recent grads on a budget or those who are passing out multiple resumes at a job fair.

Want to class it up with genuine leather? Need to bring a pen and paper? Taking along a multimedia option in the form of a iPad or CD? This Samsill Regal Pocket Zipper Binder really has it all. We all want to be prepared for anything that might be tossed our way during an interview. This binder crossover can hold all of your important items and presents itself like a stylish modern-day briefcase.

Many interviewers want to see genuine interest & effort from job candidates. This binder is great for stowing away notes on questions to ask your interviewer. This shows that you are taking the opportunity seriously and have done your homework. Not to mention they’re eye catching resume folders. If you are having trouble coming up with questions to ask your interviewer, a simple Google search will present some great options like this list of questions. Just like you, this zippered binder will prove to be professional & versatile.

Not all corporate jobs are stuffy. As millennials & gen z workers rise in the workforce, it’s not surprising to see that startup culture is becoming more prevalent. These environments encourage you to show off your personality as opposed to trying to fit in with the suits. These C-Line Two-Tone Two-Pocket Poly Portfolios boast a serious pop of neon color upon opening. If you are applying for a job that encourages you to be show your fun side and be unapologetically yourself, these are the resume folders for you. As inspired by Apple, don’t be afraid to “Think Different”.

Every job is unique and it’s important to consider your market when deciding on the right storage space for your resume and additional materials. While a clipboard might not be the right pick for a desk job, it’s an essential for jobs on the move. If you’re strolling into an interview or training session that keeps you on your feet, the Cardinal Business Clip Pad Holder is the choice for you. The brass finished clip adds a dash of class that sets it apart from most of the blah storage clipboards on the market. These clip pad folders are great for architectural project managers, event planners, market researchers, and so much more. The list goes on. After all, you don’t need to be a benched NFL player to hold a clipboard.

The Samsill Vintage Hardback Zipper Portfolio is a personal favorite because of the upscale vintage style it exudes. The dark brown portfolio draws a second glance and adds a level of curiosity that makes potential employers want to get to know you. Although the vintage portfolio is reminiscent of the rustic leather journal of a writer, it is widely popular in various lines of work. These Samsill resume folders are extensively used by legal, medical, law enforcement, and business executive professionals.

Add a dash of style that compliments your outfit with the C-line Modern Metallic Executive Style Report Cover. The bronze color and unique textured finish gives off a chic vibe while still being professional and appropriate for any job. This option is slim and perfect for handing over a resume. The swing clip is contemporary and can hold up to 25 pages to accommodate not just a resume, but any other additional resources you want to sneak in now that you’ve made it into the interview chair. The metallic folder is perfect for a fashion, beauty or luxury brand that appreciates the finer things.

As you may already know, Shoplet has a big crush on Mother Earth. The Acco PRESSTEX® Report Covers are perfect for like-minded professionals that love all things eco-friendly. In addition to the shade being green, the item is too. The report covers are made of 60% recycled content and reviewers agree that they are sturdy and reliable. These are a great pick for applicants that are trying to get their foot in the door of a company with a conscience. While saying you care matters, showing you care by making responsible choices is what really makes a difference. Keep these Acco Presstex Report Covers top of mind when applying for non-profits & green companies.

Most people review their resume countless times to check for errors or potential optimizations. Many print off multiple copies to bring along to an interview in preparation for meeting more than one employee of the company. The elite few think about the quality of paper they are printing their resume on. Whether you trying to show off your swanky cotton paper, or you’re just insanely proud of your job experience, these Oxford Clear Front Report Covers let your resume speak for yourself. These are a great value and don’t distract from what really matters most throughout the interview process – you!

Any Buxton fans out there? We hear you. This Buxton Executive Leather Padfolio shows you mean business. No frills, just quality. The cover is made up of 100% genuine leather and has a sleek black look that will never go out of style. After you land the job, you’ll be able to use this for business trips, meetings, conferences, and whatever else your career throws your way.

Now that you have done all the hard work on your resume, chosen the right paper and selected a folder that helps you put your best foot forward it’s’ time to review some tips for the interview. Remember that the interview really starts before you sit town with the person who is going to decide if you will fit into their organization so be prepared beforehand.

• Research the organization and the person you will be meeting. A quick Google check will allow you to understand what the organization does and what they are trying to achieve. Read any available press releases or peruse social networking sites so you know the latest news or initiatives. LinkedIn  can also help you get to know the interviewer and learn about their credentials. It’s always helpful if to identify a shared mission or experiences that you have in common. This can make conversation easier or more memorable so you stand out amongst potential candidates..
• Dress for success but do not over do it. Dress appropriately for the part. What is most important is that your clothes are clean, pressed and put together. An interview is not the place to wear your favorite comfy scuffed shoes, your lucky hat or clothing and items that make political statements. Also, remember that many people have allergies so do not overdo perfume, cologne or hair gel. You don’t want the interviewer to be forced to cut the interview short.
• Be Early. Show that you are responsible, professional and eager to be there. Don’t be just on time – be a little early. Call ahead if anything occurs that may cause you to be delayed so that the interviewer is not left waiting for you. Being courteous counts.  
• Make a good impression before the interview. Be kind to everyone you meet. Anyone who works at the company is in a position to have an opinion of you and your ability to fit into the organization. A successful company hires the best people to represent them regardless of position. Many receptionists have been asked to give their impressions of those waiting before the interview. Be friendly and don’t blow it before the interview begins.
• Free up your hands for the handshake. Turn your phone off and put it away before the interview & be the first to offer your hand. Your handshake should be firm but not gripping and you shouldn’t be juggling any non-essential items. Aside from your resume, which is hopefully presented in an organized and professional manner, umbrellas, coffee cups, phones, water bottles, newspapers or anything else that can be a distraction should be left outside. You will need a free hand to make the introduction.
• Stay calm and make a connection.  Remember to make eye contact and smile. It’s the job of the interviewer to ask the questions that will enable them to judge if you you have the right experience, attitude, aptitude or temperament for the job but it’s also important for you to ascertain if the company is a good fit for you. Be part of the conversation. You might ask the interviewer how long they have worked for the company or what they like most about the their job. Inquiries like these can give you a good idea of what a day at work would be like.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to show that you are interested & eager to collaborate.

Good luck out there!

The post 9 Resume Folders That Make a Great First Impression appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

The health of our planet is near and dear to our heart and we know all too well the amount of waste the office supply industry generates. That’s why Shoplet has teamed up with our friends Trees for the Future to create a partnership that we’re in for the long haul. We pledged to plant and save as many trees as possible and this week, we reached one of our milestone. We hit our 1 million trees mark! Find out more about how we accomplished this awesome milestone below!

We’re kicking off the first in our series of events to celebrate! This week, one luck lucky winner will score a complete set of Alba’s new line of break room items called Rendez-Vous. This line has yet to hit our own shelves and we are please to give one lucky winner a 6 piece break room bundle that will keep your office organized and tidy for years to come! Here’s what you’ll get.

Mug Tray: Can hold up to 4 cups. Storage space in the center. The Alba Rendez-Vous Smart Mug Tray will help you not burn your hands while carrying multiple mugs. It’s a perfect reusable option for those of you who make frequent trips to the coffee shop only to toss out those paper trays.

Coffee Pod Station: Keep your coffee station organized and looking good with this handy refillable organizer.

XL Carry Tray: The perfect carry tray for a large order at the coffee shop or for transporting beverages from break room to the conference room. This tray can carry up to 8 cups as well as beverage accessories.

Cup and Napkin Holder: Keep your coffee cups neat and organized with this handy little caddy.

Tea Accessory Display: Clearly showcase your variety of teas with this gorgeous curved display. There’s literally a cubby for everything from tea to stir sticks to sugars!

So, wanna win this awesome Alba giveaway? Here’s how!

How to Enter: Leave us a comment at the bottom of the page telling us why you have to have this Alba giveaway. Does your break room need a sustainable organization option that is also modern and good looking? Want to upgrade your coffee counter? We wanna know! Leave us a comment on our blog with your answer. Once you have commented, make sure to check off the Rafflecopter task to register your comment. Completing other tasks through Rafflecopter may increase your chances of winning. Winners will be announced next Monday.

*Open to continental U.S. residents only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Win an Alba Rendez-Vous Break Room Set appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

The post We’ve Reached Our 1 Million Trees Goal! appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

The top-opening storage compartment features a 1 1/2″ capacity and a sectional divider for keeping everything organized. The self-locking latch keeps the lid tightly closed so you’ll never lose important documents. The high-capacity clip holds up to a 1” stack of paper and features a built-in driver’s license/ID card holder. Perfect for those working in public safety, great for police, fire and emergency personnel. We’re sure you’re going to love this board just as much as we do!

So, wanna win this awesome Saunders Redi-Rite Aluminum Storage Clipboard? Here’s how!

How to Enter: Leave us a comment at the bottom of the page telling us why you have to have this Saunders Redi-Rite Aluminum Storage Clipboard. Need a reliable writing surface when your work takes you on the go? Looking to replace an old, worn out clipboard you already have? We wanna know! Leave us a comment on our blog with your answer. Once you have commented, make sure to check off the Rafflecopter task to register your comment. Completing other tasks through Rafflecopter may increase your chances of winning. Winners will be announced next Monday.

*Open to continental U.S. residents only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Win a Saunders Redi-Rite Aluminum Storage Clipboard appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

It might sound simple but sometimes you just wanna know what the best products are without having to read a ton of reviews. Shopping for office supplies sounds simple enough but if you’re looking to choose brands that you can return to again and again, sometimes it’s good to ask the pros. Pencils will forever be office staples and choosing the right set for you is just as important as your choice in pens. There’s a few things to consider such as the type of lead available, the casing that suits your proposes and the intended use. That’s where we come in! We know a thing or two when it comes to picking the best writing tools, including pencils!

A Short History of Pencils

We owe much of the modern pencil’s history to the ancient Romans. The first writing instrument recorded was called a stylus. Ancient writers used this thin metal rod to leave a light, but readable mark on papyrus which was the earliest form of paper. Other styluses were made of lead; a term still used today to describe pencil cores. Today we no longer use acual lead due to it’s known toxicity. Instead, pencil makers opt for graphite.

The oldest know wood case pencil in the world clocks in at over 300 years old.

In the 16th century, graphite became the core of choice but there were some issues with it’s use. Graphite was a brittle substance and required an accompanying material to give it strength. Early graphite pencils were wrapped in string to help reduce breaking. Later, wooden sticks were hollowed and graphite was inserted into the center. This simple change marked the birth of the modern pencil.

The first mass produced wood case pencil made it’s debut in Germany in 1662. These pencils were unpainted and in their natural state. Later, America took it’s first steps into the art of pencil making. According to Pencils.com, “The American pencil industry took off when The Joseph Dixon Crucible Company (now Dixon Ticonderoga) and more pencil manufacturers started getting into the act. Towards the end of the 19th century, New York and New Jersey hosted several factories established by prominent German pencil manufacturers, including Faber-Castell, Eberhard Faber, Eagle Pencil Company (later Berol) and General Pencil Company.”

By the early 20th century, quality wood was becoming harder to come by and additional sources were being sought. Pencil manufacturers turned to California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, where they found Incense-cedar, a species that grew in abundance and made superior pencils. California’s cedar soon became the casing of choice for pencil makers everywhere but this posed a problem for the forests.

To make sure the industry had a continuously reliable supply of this perfect wood, forest workers had to carefully manage forests. Sustainable growing and harvesting practices were put into place. Growers adapted a sustained-yield model. This means that annual growth is greater than the amount of trees harvested. These types of forests are among the healthiest and are managed to provide yields for years to come.

As you can see, the humble pencil has travelled a long way throughout history and even around the world. Let’s get into what makes for an awesome pencil.

Lead Types

This might seem like a silly topic to cover since the title pretty much explains it’s self, right. Pencil leads are made of LEAD, DUH! Actually, this is no longer common practice. Today, most pencil leads are made of a combination of graphite and clay. Sometimes these “leads” also have waxes and polymers added to varying degrees to influence their desired performance. Here’s the general rule of thumb: the more clay there is, the harder and lighter a pencil will be; the more graphite there is, the darker and softer it will be.

There is a grading system in place to help you determine what type of lead is best for your personal use. Many times you’ll see the letters HB imprinted on your pencil. So what does this mean? H stands for “hard” and B stands for “bold”. Here’s as visual representation of the types of pencil leads. To the left, you’ll find leads with more clay and less graphite (harder leads). To the right is more graphite and less clay (softer)

Bolder pencils tend to be very soft, which means that your leads will dull much faster. You’ll need to resharpen more often or replace your pencils entirely. Their shelf life is much shorter since the leads are softer and wear quicker. They also smudge much easier so you’ll need to take care not to drag your palm over what you have marked on your page. The pro is that the color is bold and deep. Higher graphite pencils are ideal for art, drawing, sketching and other artistic endeavors.

Lighter pencils tend to be pretty hard which means that generally, your leads will last much longer and require less sharpening and replacing. These are also more widely available in online office supply stores and local shops. They do not smudge easy which makes them ideal for every day use. A con can be that the colors aren’t very bold and don’t stand out much.

There are also charcoal pencils and carbon pencils but these are typically reserved for artists. For our purposes, we’ll simply be covering common use office pencils. Charcoal and carbon pencils can typically be found in specialty shops for art supplies and crafts.

Barrel/ Casing types

Most pencils you’ll find in a store are typically wood cased or mechanical plastic. When it comes to wood cased pencils, cedar is by far the most common wood casing you will find on store shelves. Cedar has a pleasant odor, does not warp or lose its shape, and is readily available. Some pencils have erasers, which are held on with a ferrule, a metal case that is either glued or held on with metal prongs.

Some companies also use Basswood. Unlike cedar, basswood (or linden wood) has no pleasant odor. It’s light brown to white in color, and very lightweight. Chinese basswood, specifically, is popular for use with pencils.

Plastic mechanical pencils are another increasingly popular alternative to wood cased pencils. These have the advantage of never needing sharpening and most can be refilled with the appropriate lead. This can be a great option for people who are on the go and don’t want to deal with sharpening pencils or broken leads on a constant basis. These can be retracted and released at will which is a major perk. The downside is that they are less ideal for drawing or sketching. They lack precision and control and offer little ability to shade.

There are also companies who are looking to eco-friendly alternatives to traditional wood or plastic pencils. Some case materials include recycled paper, bamboo, recycled plastic bottles, corn starch plastic and much more. Some of our favorite eco friendly pencils are in this list to make sure to check below to see what’s on tap.

Eraser types

There are many different types of erasers on the market, but which type is typically attached to the top of your pencil? Most erasers found at the top of your No. 2 pencil are of the rubber variety. Didn’t know there was more than one type of eraser? Here’s some of the many common eraser types you might encounter and some you might not.

 

Gum Eraser: This type of eraser has a soft, gummy texture and is most commonly used by artists. Gum erasers absorb graphite, leaving “crumbs” on your page. It’s softer than most erasers and works with most paper types. The only downside is that they aren’t the best choice for precise erasing since they are so malleable.

Rubber Eraser: This is typically the type of erase you’ll find at the top of your average pencil. They work just like gum erasers and also leave crumbs on your page, but they are firmer and much more precise. They hold their shape better and allow for fine detailing. They are also pretty gentle on paper overall.

Kneaded Eraser: These erasers are super moldable and can be shaped into any size or configuration you may need. These are perfect for erasing fine details since they can be molded. These types of erasers tend to hang on to graphite so it’s not ideal to erase large areas. This can result in ghosting when the eraser absorbs more than it can handle.

Pencil Erasers: Strangely enough, these type of erasers aren’t the ones you’ll find at the top of your no.2 pencil (those are of the rubber variety). Also referred to as an erasil or eraser-tip pencil, a pencil eraser looks like a pencil with a vinyl eraser tip. You can sharpen it to a point, like a regular pencil, so it provides a lot of precision. It’s stiff nature also means it can be hard on paper so you’ll have to be careful.

Vinyl Erasers:  Also referred to as plastic erasers or drafting erasers. These types of erasers are very hard and heavy duty. Some can even lift ink from a page. A word of caution, these erasers can damage paper of you scrub too hard so make sure to avoid using it on more delicate papers.

Ok, now that we’ve covered the basics of how to find an awesome pencil, let’s take a look at some of the best out there for every day use! We’re here to give you the 411 on the best pencils for every scenario. We’re giving you everything from the best of classic wood barrel pencils to budget mechanicals. No matter your budget or preference, we’ve got a pencil for you.

Check out our list of The best Pencils in every category

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Best Wood-Case School Pencil: Ticonderoga No. 2 Woodcase Pencils

Ticonderoga Pencils offer a satin-smooth finish to enhance writing comfort. Exclusive, medium, graphite-core formula gives you extra-smooth performance and a fine line. Pencils are crafted from premium, sustained yield wood and are easy to sharpen. PMA certified nontoxic pencil also features Microban antimicrobial protection that lasts the lifetime of the product.

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Best Mechanical School Pencils: BIC Student’s Choice Mechanical Pencil

Mechanical pencils offer a yellow design that resembles the traditional yellow wood-case pencils and No. 2 lead that matches them. Certified by Scantron, these pencils are perfect for standardized tests. One mechanical pencil writes longer and equals 2-1/2 wood-case pencils in writing length. 0.9mm point size delivers less lead breakage and bolder lines.

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Best Exec Wood-Case Pencil: Ticonderoga Matte Black No.2 Pencil

Subtle matte black finish of this No. 2 pencil makes a powerful statement. Crafted from reforested California cedar with an exclusive graphite core. Top quality, latex-free eraser quickly and clearly corrects mistakes. Easy to sharpen. Easy to use. PMA certified nontoxic.

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Best Exec Mechanical Pencils: Pentel GraphGear 1000 Drafting Pencil

GraphGear 1000 Drafting Pencil is the superior drafting pencil for professionals and writing enthusiasts. Click the pencil to reveal an extra-long 4mm tip. Click the pocket clip to release the heavy spring mechanism and retract the tip. Finely chiseled metallic grip is inlaid with soft latex-free pads to cushion fingertips.

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Best Basic Artists Pencils: Koh-I-Noor Artist Drawing Pencil

Set of graphite pencils includes 12 medium degrees: 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, 4H and 5H. Each drawing pencil offers a California cedar wood casing, high opacity and clean erasing. With a wide range of hardness, these pencils allow artists to create dramatic effects in their illustrations, drawings and sketches.

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Best All-Purpose Pencils for Children: Zebra Pen Cadoozles Medium Point Mechanical Pencils

Cadoozles Mechanical Pencils feature a medium point that is equivalent to a No. 2 pencil, but this pencil that never needs sharpening. Simply push the large colorful eraser to advance lead. Mechanical pencil is ideal for standardized tests.

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Best Ergonomic Pencils for Children: Paper Mate Triangular No.2 Mechanical Pencils

Make the switch and replace your wood-case pencil with these HB No. 2 mechanical pencils. The strong, 1.3mm lead results in less breakage, never needs sharpening and is great for standardized tests. Triangular barrel is easy to hold and won’t roll off surfaces. Large eraser is smudge-resistant for clean erasing.

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Best Eco-Friendly Wood-Case Pencil: Ticonderoga EnviroStik Wood Pencils

Go green with environmentally friendly Ticonderoga EnviroStik Pencils, made from reforested natural wood imprinted with certified nontoxic inks. An exclusive, graphite-core formula provides extra-smooth writing performance. These pencils also feature Ticonderoga’s distinctive yellow and green ferrules and are topped with latex-free, soft rubber erasers for smudge-free corrections.

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Best Eco-Friendly Mechanical Pencil: Ecolutions Recycled Pencil

Ecolutions Recycled Pencils are made with a high percentage plastic originally used in other manufacturing processes outside BIC. One reliable Ecolutions pencil equates to two and a half wood-case pencils. Each pencil contains three full-length, No. 2 leads.

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Best Heavy Duty Mechanical Pencil: Pentel EnerGize Mechanical Pencils

Mechanical pencil features a tip that conveniently retracts to protect pockets and purses. Grooved, latex-free rubber grip provides extended writing comfort and control. Design includes top click, stationary eraser and tip, and fixed sleeve. Super-strong lead never needs sharpening and produces a dark line.

The post The Best Pencils For Everyday Writing appeared first on Shoplet Blog.

This filter has an elegant, lightweight design that enhances any monitor. The adjustable magnification more than doubles character size and uses a high-quality Fresnel lens with antiglare coating. It comes fully assembled and Installs quickly and easily.The Box also includes a microfiber cleaning cloth. You’ll wonder how you ever went so long without one of these amazing magnifiers!

So, wanna win this awesome Kantek LCD Monitor Magnifier Filter? Here’s how!

How to Enter: Leave us a comment at the bottom of the page telling us why you have to have this Kantek LCD Monitor Magnifier Filter. Need a little extra magnification for your work computer? Looking for an all in one option that also offer privacy protection? Wanna have a reliable disinfectant stash for when you need it? We wanna know! Leave us a comment on our blog with your answer. Once you have commented, make sure to check off the Rafflecopter task to register your comment. Completing other tasks through Rafflecopter may increase your chances of winning. Winners will be announced next Monday.

*Open to continental U.S. residents only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Win a Kantek LCD Monitor Magnifier Filter appeared first on Shoplet Blog.