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It’s always been true that if you want to earn more money, you should think about going back to school.

But how many people realize that so many teaching posts could carry six-figure salaries?

According to the latest statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor showing average salaries for a range of occupations, six categories of teachers are included in the rankings showing jobs where the average of the top earners (the 90th percentile) is in excess of $100,000

They range from math teachers to those who impart knowledge about home economics. In math, for example, the official Labor Department definition of jobs done by those in that teaching category is “teach courses and/or pursue academic research pertaining to mathematical concepts, statistics and actuarial science and to the application of mathematics in solving specific problems and situations.” So each teaching group specifically includes university and college lecturers at the postsecondary level, rather than high school teachers.

The data also show, of course, that the true average wage for all the teachers included in the data set is between Read the rest of this entry »

TGI Friday’s is waiting to see if less food translates into more profit.

Its new “Right Portion, Right Price” menu has become popular with diners because it offers smaller portions for less money, leading to an a 1.4 percent increase in customers and a 2.5 percent increase in sales within the last 16 months.

Most offerings, such as ribs with fries, are smaller, full-fat versions of regular entrees, rather than portion-controlled, low-fat platters.

Casual dining hasn’t recovered from a long-term slump, so when the average check dropped by 4 percent in the first weeks after the menu was introduced, the restaurants’ management became a little alarmed. But now, with the increases in customers and sales, the “Right Portion, Right Price” menu is slated to become permanent.

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If you’re looking for ways to increase employee retention, here’s an idea that might work for you. More and more companies are allowing employees to bring their dogs to work. Sound a bit far-fetched? According to a recent survey conducted by FunStuffForDogs.com, it’s a great way to impress employees.

They found that 44 percent of dog owners say they’d give up 10 percent of their salary if they could bring their dog to work. The issue is so important to some dog owners that there is a job-search website listing dog-friendly companies.

If you’re thinking the idea over, why not test it out this Friday, June 22 on Pet Sitter International’s Take Your Dog to Work Day? On the day’s ninth anniversary, pet sitters, animal shelters and business are coming together to recognize canines and help homeless dogs across the country. If you plan on opening the office to some four-legged friends this week, here are a few hints to make the day run smoothly:

• Require all pets to be up-to-date on their immunizations and ask owners to provide a shot record from their veterinarian.
• Fence in an area for dogs to play during lunch.
• Tell employees they must control their dogs at all times.
• Make any disruptive dogs leave.

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