Blog

May 27, 2020

Pandemic Has Materially Changed Consumer Attitudes about Technology, Physical Presence, and Price Transparency relating to the Funeral and Cemetery Business

New survey measures transformations to a historically unchanged industry with lasting implications on buying, celebrations, practices, and physical infrastructure The pandemic has significantly altered consumer attitudes and behaviors in three key areas of the funeral and cemetery business – the buying and shopping process, the necessity of physical presence to support loved ones in their time of need, and the influence of technology on both. This according to The Foresight Companies 2020 Funeral and Cemetery Consumer Behavior Study. The pandemic has necessitated consumer use of technology to adapt their behaviors to a business steeped in tradition, and the survey makes clear that these behavior changes are here to stay.  For example, 75% of consumers now want pricing online – a practice virtually unheard of today, and many consumers will not do business with providers who do not deliver transparency. In […]
May 20, 2020

Small Business Administration and Treasury Department Release PPP Loan Forgiveness Application

The Small Business Administration has released the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application. As you know, small business owners may apply to have up to 100% of their loan forgiven.  The application sheds some light and provides guidance on the detailed calculations to determine forgiveness amounts. It also tells you what must be submitted with the application. As a bonus feature, it provides step-by-step directions for completing the forms. Forgiveness Eligibility To have your loan forgiven, at least 75% of the forgiveness amount must be for payroll costs paid and in place during the eight-week Covered Period. This must be the same as the PPP Loan Disbursement Date.  There are also non-payroll costs that are eligible to be forgiven.  A quarter of the loan may be used for mortgage, rent, utility and interest on debt obligations paid or in place […]
May 14, 2020

What Issues Should I Consider During A Recession or Market Correction?

During these uncertain times, many individuals are unsure about how the financial markets will play out and are left not knowing how their personal and business finances will be affected. As part of our Foresight Roosevelt Wealth Management alliance, Roosevelt Investments put together a comprehensive checklist titled, “What Issues Should I Consider During A Recession Or Market Correction?” featuring issues and suggestions to consider in light of recent financial market changes. In general, this checklist can help you navigate and identify which opportunities to look at that may be beneficial to you. To view this checklist, click the button below. As we navigate through these times of uncertainty and adjust to our new normal, we here are at The Foresight Companies want to be your source for all topics related to your business operations. Please visit our COVID-19 Business Operations Resource Center frequently for updates. […]
May 12, 2020

How to Successfully Manage Your Human Resources Operations During COVID-19

Foresight’s Stephanie Ramsey recently chatted with American Funeral Director, to give some thoughts about common HR questions employers are asking surrounding this pandemic. We have posted and linked the interview below: Human Resources During COVID-19 By Patti Martin Bartsche, American Funeral Director Editor’s Note: This information is up to date as of press time. Because the COVID-19 situation is dynamic, additional clarifications regarding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act as well as other government actions are possible. COVID-19 is forcing firms large and small to rapidly change their approach to work, raising crucial human resources concerns. While business owners arc acting to take necessary precautions. the pandemic offers an opportunity for firms to carefully review the strategies, policies and procedures they have in place to protect employees, customers and operations now and in the future. What impact does the Families […]
May 9, 2020

Step 5: The Staffing Challenge

With an annual loss of more than 1,700 directors with five or more years’ experience, will staffing issues be owners’ most daunting challenge to come? In the 1980s, when nationwide rates were 7% or less, I predicted that cremation, coupled with the implementation of itemized pricing (as mandated by the FTC Funeral Rule), would be the biggest challenge funeral service would face in my lifetime. It’s now 2020, I’m still alive, and I was right. So now I’m going to give the next eon of funeral home owners my prediction for the future: The integration of staffing and licensure will be the biggest challenge for the next 40 years on many levels. This topic falls in line with this month’s editorial focus on the new breed of funeral directors. New Bs, as I will refer to them, are our salvation […]
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