SWNS

Nearly half of Americans buckle down for at least a week before a trip to avoid getting sick. A new survey of 2,000 nationally representative Americans found that 44% take extra precautions to avoid falling ill for at least a week, with 22% saying they do so for at least two weeks. In fact, the average respondent says 10% of their luggage is dedicated to cleanliness items such as hand sanitizer (73%), masks (63%) and cleaning wipes (60%). Since the start of the pandemic, 58% of respondents admit that they have higher standards of cleanliness when traveling. But that’s not to say respondents aren’t staying clean at home. On a typical day, respondents wash their hands with soap and water about six times per day and use hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes about four times. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Ecolab, results also revealed that 56% of respondents feel dirtier and germier when they’re traveling. Respondents are more concerned about cleanliness while traveling to their destination compared to after they’ve arrived (23% vs 16%). To that same tune, most respondents (40%) feel like they first need to clean themselves immediately after arriving to their destination. Even so, respondents aren’t letting their guard down upon arrival, they’re looking for both red and green cleanliness flags. When searching for red flags that might indicate their room is not clean, respondents look for stains on the sheets (74%), trash on the floor (70%), soap scum in the shower (64%) and dust or fingerprints on the cups (57%). On the flip side, they’re looking for green flags like clean smells (82%), fresh trash bags in the cans (77%), cups wrapped in plastic (72%) and a post-clean seal on the door (52%). It’s no surprise that more than four in five (82%) feel more comfortable staying at places where they have a clear cleaning program. “It’s more important than ever to try to be cleaner and safer when traveling,” said Lisa Robinson, VP Global Food Safety and Public Health. “While most travelers may have their own cleanliness habits, the Ecolab Science Certified Program can help businesses advance cleaner, safer practices through science-based products and periodic auditing by an Ecolab specialist.” The survey also asked respondents about their encounters with germs or sickness when traveling and found that 40% of all respondents have gotten sick while traveling. Getting sick on vacation is a traveler’s worst nightmare. Of those who have, 45% said they were relegated to their room until their flight back, while 24% actually turned around and went home. Another 22% said their illness ruined the trip for everyone else involved. One in five (20%) spread their germs throughout the group, making the other travelers in their party sick as well. And while they didn’t have to cut their trip off early, 19% had to take an extended stay and remain at their destination to recover. One respondent said, “I wasn't able to do things with my family when we arrived at our destination.” “Vacations are an important time to relax and recharge and the Ecolab Science Certified seal can help give peace of mind to those traveling so they know they are at a location dedicated to a higher level of cleanliness and so we can get back to enjoying life,” said Robinson. Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 nationally representative Americans was commissioned by Ecolab between October 11 and October 17, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Six in 10 Americans are worried about being “out-gifted” this holiday season, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 Americans who plan to exchange holiday gifts revealed that 62% are trying to be the best gifter in their family — and the biggest competition? Mom, according to 24% of those polled. For 59%, gift giving is a friendly competition in their family, and respondents rate their own skills quite highly; 20% said they’re the best gift giver, coming in second after mom. Partners came in third (13%), then dad trailed a bit, coming in fourth place with 12% of the vote. Gift giving is so important that 62% believe finding the right gifts for their loved ones is the most stressful part of the holidays, and respondents brainstorm an average of five ideas before landing on the perfect present. Commissioned by Avocado Green Mattress and conducted by OnePoll, the survey found that while gift giving may be a fun competition, there’s also a selfless aspect. Respondents prefer giving gifts, rather than receiving them (31% vs. 19%) — though 44% did say they enjoy both equally. But it’s not just about finding a gift people will love: Americans are also looking into the sustainability of their gifts. When it comes to friendly gifting, 58% said sustainable gifts give them an edge over the competition, and 42% have begun to care more about purchasing eco-friendly gifts over the past few years. “Brands know that most shoppers want gifts that don't harm the environment,” said Avocado Green co-founder and chief marketing officer Mark Abrials. “So it’s essential to look for trusted certifications to ensure what a company is doing is actually green — and not just greenwashing.” Half of the Americans surveyed (49%) would be willing to go out of their way to shop at a local, sustainable business — of those, the average respondents would be willing to pay 44% more and spend an extra 3.5 hours on the gift-buying process. Respondents were asked what factors are most likely to influence their gift-buying decisions, and a third said it was important that the gift is coming from an eco-conscious business (36%), or from a small or local business (35%). A similar number look for companies that give back to the community (31%), and about a quarter want to purchase from companies that are carbon neutral (26%). But it’s not all about where the gift is coming from. Results found that respondents are also being conscious of how they present gifts. Over the past few years, 46% said they’ve become more open to the idea of alternative wrapping options — such as paper bags (47%), newspaper (41%) and fabric (36%). And 40% believe non-traditional wrapping paper allows them to be more creative while giving gifts. “In the age of climate change, it’s imperative we all do our part to limit the environmental impact of our individual choices,” said Abrials. “Collectively, being more intentional about our holiday gifts can have a big positive impact.” WHICH FACTORS INFLUENCE RESPONDENTS’ GIFT-BUYING DECISIONS? How much the recipient will like the gift — 43% The cost of the gift — 39% How it compares to what I purchased for this person last year — 37% If the company is eco-conscious and sustainable — 36% How it compares to what I’m buying for other people — 35% If the gift comes from a small and/or local business — 35% How long it will take to ship — 35% If the company gives back to the community — 31%         If the company is women or minority-owned — 28% If the company is carbon neutral — 26%

Feeling under the weather? Try the rom-com remedy — three in five Americans say it’s their go-to movie genre when down for the count. That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 millennial parents of kids ages 4-12, where they’re also watching action and adventure movies (37%) and series like Harry Potter or the Hunger Games (36%). When sickness strikes, more than four in five (82%) spend most of their time in their bedroom, with 42% staying put on the couch in their living room. This may contribute to the fact that the average parent watches five hours of TV or movies each sick day. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Delsym, results showed how respondents are optimizing comfort with their favorite things. Results revealed that respondents get sick about three times per year. Respondents were more likely to prefer old favorites than to wrap their heads around new content when feeling ill. (23% vs 15%). When parents are sick with their children, the most popular movies to watch are the Harry Potter series (32%) and the Toy Story series (32%). They also watch movies like Frozen (30%), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (28%) and Moana (25%). More than half (56%) of respondents have a go-to or favorite feel-better comfort movie, with the average person saying they can watch it four times in a row without getting sick of it In fact, 45% of those admit they can watch it more than four times and one in 10 of those (11%) even say they can watch it “an infinite amount of times.” In total, respondents have watched their feel-better movie about 34 different times. This movie has been respondents’ favorite for about six years, perhaps because it reminds them of good times (61%) and makes them laugh (53%). Parents report feeling relaxed (54%), happy (48%) and calm (40%) after watching their favorite movie. Almost two-thirds (63%) of parents agree that they’ve passed their love of their favorite movie along to their child. “Nothing brings a family together quite like movie night, and nothing makes movie night better than a feel-good flick that fills you with warm, fuzzy feelings – especially when you’re sick. We understand that feeling better means more than just relieving your cough symptoms – it’s about cozying up on the couch as you and your family work to feel better together,” said Albert So, Marketing Director, Upper Respiratory Brands at Reckitt, including Delsym. The survey also delved into how respondents are remedying their ailments by caring for their five senses. In order to alleviate their symptoms, parents tend to want to taste soup (42%) and hot beverages like tea or coffee (26%). They also want to touch things like their favorite blanket (40%), their significant other (19%) and their pet (14%). When it comes to smell, respondents like to breathe in something clean like fresh linens (42%), medicine (36%) and something cooking in the kitchen (26%). And while trying to feel better, respondents like to listen to music (58%) and their friends and family talking (29%). “When a family member is under the weather, the entire household is caught in the storm and that daily routine can be thrown off course, bringing with it discomfort and chaos. Families not only need fast-acting relief, but they need comforting remedies to help them navigate that storm,” said So. “Whether it’s mom’s chicken soup, your go-to feel better movie or cozying up with your kids, whatever it is that makes you feel better can go a long way. Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 millennial parents of kids aged 4-12 was commissioned by Delsym between October 6 and October 10, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

If dating apps aren’t leading to a successful relationship, you might be barking up the wrong tree — new research shows adopting a pet might be a better way to go. The survey of 2,000 American dog and cat owners found 34% of respondents met their significant other because of their furry friend. And it’s not just romantic love people are finding as a result of their four-legged pals: results also found one in three respondents (32%) met their best friend because of their pet. How are these “meet-cutes” happening? The majority of respondents (68%) said it’s easier to start a conversation once their pet has broken the ice and provided something to talk about. Which might explain how 72% of those surveyed have struck up a conversation with someone specifically because of their pet — and for those, it happens an average of 172 times per year. Commissioned by “I and love and you,” a holistic pet food brand that creates nutritious meals for dogs and cats, and conducted by OnePoll, the survey indicates that our pets aren’t just helping us meet new people, but also different kinds of people. According to results, watching their pet approach people without judgment or prejudice has encouraged 77% of respondents to do the same. And seeing their pet approach all types of people has made 74% more aware of their own judgment and prejudice. Respondents were split by ethnicity, and white respondents were among the ones who most strongly agreed with this statement, at 83%. “Everyone has experienced the pure and unwavering love our dogs and cats, essentially our best friends, offer,” said Michael Meyer, CEO of ‘I and love and you.’ “As a holistic pet food brand dedicated to strengthening the bond between pet and owner, we recognize the importance of learning valuable lessons from the ways our pets approach the world.” Seventy-seven percent of respondents said their pet has never judged them, regardless of what their pet has seen them do. Moreover, 80% said their pet not being judgmental has encouraged them to be less judgmental of others. Black respondents were among the most likely to agree with that statement (90%) — with white respondents not far behind (87%). Perhaps, then, it makes sense that 80% believe their four-legged companion has made them a better person. Those surveyed were also split by their sexuality, and results found queer respondents were the most likely to agree — at 90%. Specifically, respondents said their pet has helped them to become more social (66%), more active (59%) and more open (58%). When asked to give specific examples of how their pet has made them a better person, one respondent said, “Sometimes I feel like not getting up anymore… But having to take care of these animals has helped me continue to get up and keep moving.” Another wrote, “Seeing my pet just be a pet, as corny as it may sound, something about the innocence, the purity, opens my heart beyond something indescribable. I feel a warmth in my core, like I [want to] do better for her.” Pets help bring out the best in humans, which might be why 78% of respondents agree: the world would be a better place if we could view it through our pet’s eyes. “We see these survey results as an opportunity for us to better ourselves by taking a page from our pet’s handbook,” said Meyer. “We challenge you to chat it up with a stranger, embrace and celebrate diversity, leave judgement at the door and strive to be an elevated version of oneself — one that would make your four-legged best friend super proud.” HOW HAS YOUR PET MADE YOU A BETTER PERSON? They’ve helped me to become more social — 66% They’ve encouraged me to be more active — 59% They’ve helped me to become more open — 58% Watching my pet try new things has encouraged me to do the same — 44% Taking care of them has helped me to take care of myself — 26%

People feel endless nostalgia when the most wonderful time of the year comes around, according to new research. A new survey of 2,000 US adults who celebrate a winter holiday found two in three would love to recreate the holiday magic of their favorite childhood memories this season, with 72% claiming they enjoyed the holidays more when they were young. Sixty-nine percent of those polled had holiday traditions growing up and 43% said their longest-running holiday traditions have been going for 16 years or more. Some of the most cherished traditions include decorating the Christmas tree (43%), seeing friends and family (40%), decorating the home (29%), watching classic holiday movies (26%) and eating holiday meals (25%). More than a third (35%) said their fondest memories of the season occurred between the ages of 6 and 10 — an indicator of the golden era for holiday magic. Conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by the makers of the SPAM® Brand to coincide with the launch of their new holiday flavor, respondents also shared what they felt indicates the “true” start of the holiday season: putting up the Christmas tree (47%), holiday music playing on the radio (47%), putting up holiday decorations (46%), watching holiday movies (44%) and seeing seasonal foods or holiday flavors (42%). Additionally, those surveyed said “Jingle Bells” (31%), “White Christmas” (29%) and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” (27%) are the top carols to put them in the holiday spirit. Two in three survey respondents were parents, destined to create holiday memories with their children. A large majority of them (91%) want their children to experience the magic of the holidays. Nearly as many (87%) want to give their kids their own fond memories of the holidays. Seven in 10 (71%) agreed the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to start new traditions. Just as many believe new holiday traditions can last just as long as the established ones from their childhood. The survey also revealed 52% have adapted their childhood holiday traditions to the modern-day. This includes collecting new decorations (50%), watching modern remakes of classic holiday movies (43%) and connecting with friends and family virtually (41%). One in four said their favorite way to modernize traditions is by re-creating old holiday recipes from their youth (28%). “Now more than ever, people are seeking that warm and comforting feeling from past holiday traditions, and they want to share and evolve these traditions with their families,” said Jennesa Kinscher, senior brand manager for the SPAM® Brand. “This includes creating new yet simple ways to enjoy holiday activities and foods we love while establishing new interpretations of traditions that can be passed down for years to come.” The survey found food plays a huge role in holiday traditions for 83% of people. Whether creating a new holiday dish or an old family recipe, respondents said they’re motivated to create it because their friends and family enjoy it (56%), they enjoy it themselves (56%) and because of tradition and nostalgia (43%). Flavors and spices that evoke feelings of holiday nostalgia and comfort the most are cinnamon (58%), pumpkin (54%), peppermint (52%), cocoa (47%) and nutmeg (39%). Over half (56%) of respondents have tried to re-create something for the holidays from their childhood — including favorite holiday meals (59%), baked goods or treats (59%) and decorations (50%). “Food is such a big part of holiday traditions because the popular seasonal ingredients and flavors we all love triggers fond and familiar memories,” continued Kinscher. “That’s why we’ve summed up the spirit of the holidays in one SPAM® can, taking consumers back to the nostalgia and comfort we all crave.” WHAT MADE THE LAST FEW HOLIDAYS MORE MEANINGFUL? Being reminded what to be thankful for - 55% Enjoying annual favorites such as food, movies and music - 51% Being able to see family/friends again - 51% Celebrating with kid(s) - 41% Making new traditions - 40% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who celebrate a winter holiday was commissioned by the makers of the SPAM® Brand between October 21 and October 26, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Two-thirds of Americans (67%) would eat cultured meat grown in a lab setting. That’s according to a recent survey of 2,001 U.S. adults who are their household’s primary grocery shoppers, which discovered people have become more open to trying meat alternatives, with 58% willing to eat plant-based options such as tofu, tempeh, and seitan. However, inflation is impacting three in four (75%) shoppers’ ability to pay for ethically produced products. About two-thirds (64%) also said they might opt for plant-based dishes and serve less meat for the holiday season due to the rising price of meat. And 73% believe the past decade has changed how others view vegan and vegetarian stereotypes. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Farm Forward, a nonprofit whose mission is to end factory farming, the research also revealed 73% “always” or “often” buy products labeled “organic,” “natural,” “humanely raised,” or “sustainable.” The main reason? Half said these labels sound more ethical, meaning these products do not harm the environment and fairly support the suppliers, growers or producers. One out of five shoppers don’t believe the meat they typically buy comes from factory farms, and 22% are unsure. "Shoppers tend to believe wording on meat and dairy labeling is true but often it's humanewashing, meaning that the producer is trying to paint a false picture to play on people's desire for ethically raised food, " said Andrew deCoriolis, executive director at Farm Forward. "The vast majority of meat purchased in grocery stores comes from factory farms where conditions are crowded and filthy." More than three in four people (78%) said they would be concerned if they found out that meat labeled “humanely raised” and “free range” comes from factory farms. Six in 10 have recently considered making or already made more ethical food choices, including supporting fair trade, an arrangement designed to help producers in growing countries achieve sustainable and equitable trade relationships (45%). Currently, 60% trust food labels such as “natural” and “organic,” with 43% saying they would trust them more if there was a government guarantee behind each one. Eighty percent believe the government should do more to hold companies accountable for the claims they make about food products. "The overwhelming majority of survey respondents (91%) placed the onus on the government to make brands prove they’re taking actual steps to live up to the claims on their food labels,” deCoriolis added. “It’s time for our government to take action and make brands live up to their labels.” FOOD LABEL WORDS PEOPLE THINK THEY UNDERSTAND Organic - 51% Natural - 50% Free-range - 47% Raised without antibiotics - 45% Cage-free - 45% Pasture-raised - 44% Humanely raised - 43% Non-GMO - 42% Sustainable - 42% rBST-free - 28% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,001 U.S. adults who are the primary grocery shoppers in their household was commissioned by Farm Forward between October 3 and October 17, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

The average American has five people in their life they have a very strong relationship with and can lean on for anything, according to new research. A survey gauged 2,000 Americans’ gratitude for the relationships in their lives and found that seven in 10 are feeling extra thankful for the people in their life this year than ever before (71%). People are most thankful for their kids (54%), romantic partner (53%) and siblings (45%). One in seven employed respondents are even feeling thankful for their co-worker. Conducted by OnePoll for SurePayroll, the survey found three in five said that they feel more sentimental about the relationships in their life around the holiday season in November and December. From finding someone who is trustworthy (48%) or a good listener (41%) to finding someone loyal (33%), nearly three-quarters of respondents agree that strong partnerships help simplify the complexities of life (74%). Similarly, 85% said good communication is key to relationships that feel fulfilling, yet simple. Outside of their close circle, people have some of the best partnerships with their neighbors and doctors. Nearly a third of employed respondents said one of their strongest partnerships is with their co-worker (31%). Forty percent of respondents also shared that they have a strong relationship with a small business, citing that they understand their needs (55%), offer personalized service (54%) or are available when they need them (51%). “The foundation for fulfilling relationships is similar, whether with a family member, coworker, healthcare provider or a neighborhood small business,” said Jenna Shklyar, head of marketing at SurePayroll. Half of respondents said it’s hard to form a good partnership with people outside of their circle, and a similar percentage said this only gets more difficult as they get older (51%) – reaching peak difficulty in the early to mid-40s. This may be why many are treasuring the partnerships they do have, with most agreeing that they try their hardest to keep in touch with the people in their life during the bustle of the holiday season (63%). In fact, half of those surveyed said they use technology more during the holiday season to keep in touch with loved ones than at other times of the year (52%). Fifty-one percent even attribute the closeness of their relationships to technology, sharing that it allows them to express appreciation for the people in their life when they can’t be there in person (74%). Most respondents recall having a virtual heart-to-heart conversation with someone using technology – whether over the phone, video call or email – (54%), and similarly, 50% would sentimentally reminisce on that conversation at a later time. Of the different types of businesses, 83% of Americans have the easiest time forming strong relationships with small businesses and are most likely to trust them when compared to mid-size and large businesses (70%). “Americans crave connection—especially during the holidays—and prioritize trust in their personal and business relationships. That trust can be a difference-maker in the competitive marketplace, especially if small business owners directly connect their online presence to in-store promotions,” said Shklyar. “Local mom-and-pop small businesses have an edge over mid-size and large businesses when it comes to using technology to form relationships with customers, yet customers still rate forming an in-person connection more important than a strong online presence.”

More than a third of older Americans are worried about affording their medication in the future (34%), according to a recent poll. The survey of 2,000 seniors 64 and older delved into the topic of affording certain aspects of their healthcare and found that similarly, 35% have cut down on costs in other places of their life in order to have enough money to afford their healthcare needs. To pay for their healthcare, one in five respondents mentioned they’ve cut down on paying for necessities like rent/mortgage payments (19%) and groceries (20%) in order to pay for medical costs. The poll, conducted by OnePoll for ClearMatch™ Medicare, found that three in four seniors struggle to afford certain aspects of their healthcare at least some of the time and 38% agree that healthcare is more expensive now than they remember it ever being. Nearly every senior polled (96%), already takes medication, with the average respondent taking six per week. And it doesn’t stop there – 47% anticipate needing to take more prescribed medications as they get older, which may be why nearly a sixth of respondents think it’s important to save up their money now to help afford their medications in the future. When it comes to other aspects of healthcare, just three in 10 seniors would rate the availability and cost (31%) of primary doctors near them as “good” or “excellent.” Almost a fifth of all respondents also said the availability (18%) and cost (20%) of prescribed medications near them is only “fair” or “poor.” Getting enough financial support would cut down on respondents’ healthcare stresses, with seniors sharing that good healthcare would allow them to have more money to spend on leisure activities (61%) or be stress-free about going to the doctor (60%). “Finding a Medicare plan that is within your budget and able to address your health insurance needs is extremely important in today’s economy,” says ClearMatch Medicare (a part of HealthPlanOne) CEO, Ben Pajak. “The good news is that there are a number of Medicare Advantage plans that offer convenient coverage, multiple plan options and have no premiums as well as low or no deductibles, that most individuals can find a plan that fits their needs.” On average, those who have Medicare or health insurance said their plan covers about 41% of their medications; however, a quarter of respondents with insurance admit they don’t have a great understanding of knowing all the details about what their plan covers (24%). Forty-five percent of all seniors don’t feel like they have enough knowledge about the different options available to help them pay for health expenses, despite 61% claiming that they regularly keep up with news regarding healthcare. When it comes to looking ahead, just 33% believe healthcare will become more affordable for everyone in the future, with 40% vying for prescribed medications to be free for older people. “It’s important that people on Medicare know what options are available to them,” says Jennifer Girdler, head of customer care at ClearMatch Medicare. “Plans change every year, so it makes sense to re-evaluate your healthcare needs and budget as it relates to your plan.”

The majority of Americans (81%) are willing to put aside disagreements with others to work on a cause they hold dear to their hearts. A new survey of 2,000 adults revealed that four in five are willing to put their differences aside to work with someone they usually wouldn't see eye to eye with when it comes to supporting a cause (78%). Three in four (76%) Americans are also willing to engage in conversation with someone who holds different views to see if they can understand their point of view. When asked what topics respondents felt people most disagreed on, politics came out on top (68%), followed by social justice issues (57%), climate change (53%), equal rights (53%) and the economy and the workforce (49%). Conducted by the Walton Family Foundation and OnePoll to mark National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15, the research finds that despite these differences in opinions, most Americans (80%) believe people need to come together to solve our country’s big issues. “It’s heartening that so many people are willing to look toward common ground to find common solutions,” said Caryl M. Stern, executive director of the Walton Family Foundation. “Our problems are too big to solve alone. We need inclusive coalitions to create solutions with sticking power.” But what motivates opposites to work together? Sixty-three percent of respondents said they’d work or volunteer with someone with different views if they had a shared cause they both deeply cared about. Still, seven in 10 think working on issues has the power to bring people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives together (70%). In fact, 60% have made a friend who’s passionate about the same issues they are. The issues identified as most in need of collaboration are climate change (41%), local community issues (40%), diversity, equity and inclusion (39%), growing local economies (38%) and increasing student achievement and opportunities (37%). And when asked which sectors they think can bring people together, philanthropy came out on top at 45%, followed by healthcare (45%), education (43%), the nonprofit sector (42%) and government (42%). What do people think are the benefits of philanthropy? Half of Americans see philanthropy as a way to bring people together to tackle tough issues (50%), bring extra resources to address the world’s biggest issues (49%) and create access and opportunities for everyone (48%). “I’m glad that philanthropy is helping to convene people from across communities and sectors,” said Stern. “This National Philanthropy Day, I’m excited to listen and look for innovative solutions that are bubbling up from people working together.”

More than a third of children don’t feel represented in the books they read – because of their gender or ethnicity. Research of 1,000 American children aged six to 12 and their parents revealed nearly three quarters (74%) read regularly and identify characters always look the same and don’t represent different views. And of the 50% of girls who don’t feel represented, 39% thought lead roles in stories always seemed to be boys. While only 13% of parents had seen minority races represented in the books their children read. It also emerged 62% think their child would be more inclined to read more often if the main characters represented similarities to them. Commissioned by the personalized book brand Wonderbly and conducted by OnePoll, the study found 61% stated a lack of representation on things such as race and gender has put them off reading altogether. Other characteristics children haven’t seen in their books, according to their parents, include physical disabilities, gender identity and religious beliefs. Skin conditions, allergies and wearing glasses are also rarely covered. Parents also identified uncommon hair colors, having dyslexia and living in an apartment were other characteristics left uncovered. Three quarters believed it’s important for kids to see themselves represented in the wider content they consume including films and TV as well as books. “Children want nothing more than to feel a part of a story and the research has highlighted while some are able to, for varying reasons, others are not,” said Asi Sharabi, CEO and co-founder of personalised book brand Wonderbly, which commissioned the research. “It’s vital in engaging a child for them to feel like they can relate to either the story or the characters involved. “The research also found that parents are quite aware of this too when it comes to finding content they consume as they strive to find things like books that are more representative of their children.” Nearly half (44%) of children would like to see more people like them in movies, 44% in TV shows and 43% would like to feel visible in video games. While 36% of kids have never seen a character they relate to on television and 55% have asked their parents to buy books with more personalities that speak, look or act like them. Parents believe representation is vital in such mediums in order to normalize their feelings, help them relate more to a story and to know other children find themselves in the same circumstances as them. And 37% don’t want them to feel like they’re different, according to the OnePoll data. Almost seven in 10 (67%) also believe seeing characters like them in books will enable them to feel like they can achieve anything. Though, 58% admit it’s difficult to find books that do represent their young. “It’s so important for children to feel represented in the books they read,” added Asi Sharabi from Wonderbly. “When children see themselves as the hero of a story, it helps them believe that they can do anything they can imagine; that any story they imagine could be their story. “Books are also a way to educate your child on an infinite number of topics and themes that shape how they view the world. Personalization helps children relate to the storylines and makes them far more receptive to the key messages and learnings of each tale.”

Four in five pet owners are happy to simply be at home for the holidays with their pet, citing that their animal friend makes all holidays better (81%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 pet owners found that as we approach the start of seasonal festivities and celebrations, new research finds that families and individuals with pets are extra focused on their animal companions during this time of year. Thirty-nine percent of pet owners always get their pet something for the holidays and most said they have the most time to spend quality time with their pet during the holiday season than at other times of year (51%). To get their pet in the holiday mood, pet parents are looking to spend an average of $50 on their pet’s holiday gift this year. But many would be open to going over this amount (41%) to make their pet happy with new pet toys (74%), treats (73%) and clothes (29%). Others get their pet in the holiday spirit by feeding them more treats (54%), feeding them human food (30%) and taking them out more (31%). Conducted by OnePoll for MetLife Pet Insurance, the survey found that more than a third of survey respondents have gifted a pet to a family member or friend (35%), and 38% of respondents with children have given their child a pet as a holiday gift. Half of parents said their child was the one who asked for a pet as a holiday gift (51%), going to lengths like asking several times (58%) or trying to prove they’re responsible (50%). A fifth of parents said their children even gave a presentation about why a pet would be a good addition to their family (21%). “There are many things people may not immediately think about as they adopt or gift a pet this holiday season,” said Brian Jorgensen, head of pet insurance at MetLife. “Considering both the short- and long-term responsibilities like the safety and health of your pet from the start can ensure that all the memories with your furry family members – during the holidays and beyond - are happy ones.” Nearly a quarter of parents who got their pet after having kids said they were more excited than their child (23%), but 48% they were both equally excited. Furthermore, the months leading to the holidays may also be prime for adopting a pet, with one in six saying fall is the best season to do so. This may be because 41% of respondents needed to spend up to a week at home trying to get their pet acclimated to their new environment. Whether the pet is a new addition to the family or not, the survey revealed that pet parents have a lot to consider as they care for their animal companions during the holiday season and beyond. The poll found that pet owners would be reluctant to leave their pets behind during the holidays, especially since nearly a third have spent the holiday season away from their pet in the past (31%). These respondents mentioned that when prepping to leave, they worried about their pet being fed enough/on time (55%), finding somewhere their pet will be happy (46%) and providing their pet’s caretaker with all of the essentials (46%). Most pet owners also spent at least a week researching what it’s like to own their pet (55%) and considered other parts of the decision-making process like the size of the pet (56%), costs like food or insurance (53%) and the kind/breed of pet (53%). To prepare their home, pet owners purchased the right pet furniture like bed or tanks (47%) and pet-proofed their home by blocking small spaces and securing electric cables (36%). As pet parents consider the long-term responsibilities of caring for their pet, many are concerned about their animal’s mobility (42%), issues with sight/hearing (35%) or arthritis (32%) as they age. “The holidays are a special time to make memories with your loved ones – including your pets,” Jorgensen said. “Many people consider adding an animal to their family during this time, and, given the proper consideration, that can make for a really happy holiday season."

More than half (52%) of freelance workers are expected to remain part of the gig economy — opting out of corporate jobs — until they retire, a new study shows. A recent survey of 2,000 gig workers found that while three in four (75%) are confident their ongoing gig will help them reach their retirement savings goal, 54% also feel more pressure than ever to have a certain amount of money saved up before they retire. Seventy-four percent are also saving differently due to the pandemic and recession. Currently, freelancers are spending or saving on mental health days (42%) and life insurance (37%) over buying or renting a car (27%) and travel (25%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Everly, LLC, the survey also discovered the top three things people love about freelancing — freedom of choice for the projects they work on (43%), flexible hours (41%) and being their own boss (40%). As for their biggest pet peeves, respondents cited difficulty building vacation time into their schedule (42%), followed by clients that don’t always pay or pay on time (40%) and paying for health benefits (38%). Seven in 10 (70%) respondents said they have changed their financial goals as they’ve gotten older, with 72% spending more money on longer-lasting things, and 64% cutting back on non-essentials. This approach can allow gig workers to tackle some of their biggest expenses, among which are a computer, including accessories and maintenance costs (28%), personal expenses such as clothes and a gym membership (27%), health benefits (25%) and a professional website (25%). The average freelancer aims to retire at 58 years old and anticipates needing $353,063 for retirement. “Along with all the perks freelancing offers, one of the challenges is figuring out health benefits, retirement, and life insurance on your own,” said Karna Trautman, Chief Innovation Officer at Everly. “When choosing the right type of life insurance, you may want to consider an affordable cash accumulation policy that has flexible payments and a death benefit of five to 10 times your total expenses.” While 58% of freelancers said they have health insurance, this varied by industry, with hospitality (78%) and architecture gig workers (76%) more likely to be covered than those working in education (64%) and healthcare (61%). Of those who don’t have health insurance, 48% haven’t taken proper care of their health because they can’t afford to. At the same time, 74% said they would switch to a full-time permanent role if the right opportunity presented itself, such as the pay, industry or job location aligning with their expectations. That includes the majority (88%) of freelancers with 4–5 dependents. “Our research shows only 26% feel ‘very confident’ in their family or loved ones’ ability to continue to pay for expenses in the event they lose their income. Universal life insurance can help provide a safety net, as well as cover unforeseen expenses such as medical bills,” Trautman added.

Two in three Americans admit they feel too much pressure during their vacation to actually enjoy it (65%), new research suggests. A survey of 2,000 adults delved into the topic of “vacation pressure,” with almost a quarter saying they haven’t physically relaxed on their getaway in two years or longer (23%). Although people’s vacations typically last a week (43%), the average person doesn’t start to relax until three days into their trip. But what’s keeping people from having fun? Respondents cite not having enough money during their trip (30%), making sure their credit cards work domestically or abroad (29%) and feeling they won’t get to do or see everything they planned (29%) as top reasons why they feel vacation stress. On the other hand, the majority are worried they’re wasting their vacation time in tourist traps or not experiencing the best of the destination (62%). And if one person is stressed or has a negative attitude, more than half noted it could ruin the whole trip’s vibe (55%). The survey – conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Club Wyndham – also found that 67% feel they need a vacation once they feel burnt out from their daily lives – and almost two in five suggest going on a getaway trip every year to avoid that feeling (37%). A vacation may do wonders since 75% feel like themselves after a trip, and a similar percentage believe traveling is good for their mental health (73%). That may be why three in four are determined not to let their anxieties get in the way of enjoying themselves during their next vacation (74%). To help ease the pressure, two in five respondents (41%) said they are “very interested” in the idea of “slow travel” – where they’re not rushing from place to place and instead taking the time to enjoy the people, places and sites of their destination. The top “slow travel” activities people are interested in doing on their next vacation are hiking/nature activities (38%), relaxing in the hotel/resort pool (36%), shopping at small businesses (34%), taking strolls on the beach (34%) and visiting the local grocery store (34%). “High demand for leisure travel and a pent-up desire for vacations have resulted in many of today’s travelers approaching their vacations with limited time and an urgent list of must-sees and must-dos, making them stressed before they even unpack,” said Renu Hanegreefs-Snehi, senior vice president of global brands at Travel + Leisure Co. “Slow travel is to go boldly, knowing that being in the moment is the only thing that matters because that’s where vacation takes place.” While work was considered one of the many vacation stressors (23%), 30% of employed respondents suggested employers should offer their employees 16 to 20 vacation days (30%). What would employees give up to have more paid time off? Respondents said they would have no problem giving up commuting benefits (34%), summer Fridays (34%), complimentary food (32%), holiday parties (27%) and a raise/promotion (25%) just to have more vacation days. “It’s no surprise that taking a vacation helps support better mental health, nor is it surprising that everyone wants more vacation – so much so that nearly a quarter of Americans would give up their annual raise for more paid time off,” said Hanegreefs-Snehi. “Our research points to just how difficult it really is for travelers to truly disconnect from work emails, texts and social media in order to check into the vacation mindset.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Club Wyndham between October 4 and October 6, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

A new survey of 1,000 American nurses found that nine in 10 believe the quality of patient care often suffers due to nursing shortages (90%). The majority added that they feel guilty about taking a break because they think they must always be on call (55%). Almost six in 10 nurses have even noticed their patients have suffered because they have too much on their plate (56%). Additionally, half of the nurses polled admit they have considered leaving the nursing profession (50%). According to the survey conducted by OnePoll and connectRN, the top reason why nurses plan to leave their careers is the nursing shortages (61%), followed by having a better work/life balance (58%), they feel their mental health is at risk because of burnout (56%) and a lack of appreciation (51%). In fact, six in 10 blamed staff shortages as to why they feel they don’t have control over their careers (60%). That may also be why 58% of nurses don’t think their employers are doing enough to address the nursing shortages. Some respondents advised ex-nurses who left the profession to come back by saying, “COVID has been tough on the industry, but it’s starting to get better,” “Helping people is a blessing” and “I would say as hard as things may seem from time to time, it pays off in the end.” “Nurses need new ways to work in order for there to be a solution to the critical labor shortage we are experiencing,” said Ted Jeanloz, CEO of connectRN. “By giving nurses flexibility, we can pull them back into the profession and ensure that neither patients nor nurses suffer, alleviating some of the pressure they’ve been experiencing lately.” The survey also asked nurses what they thought were the biggest frustrations with the nursing industry. Nurses said there’s not enough staff (65%), low wages (39%) and a lack of respect for the work they do (34%). They stated that their profession offers them a lack of flexibility over their schedule (21%), not enough time for friends and family (21%) and not enough opportunities for career advancement (12%). The data suggest that time off could help nurses’ work performance. Nurses said they need an average of four vacation days per month to feel fully recharged at work. If they could create their dream work schedule, 65% said they would like to have a four-day weekend, have time to eat a full lunch (46%), have a more flexible shift (39%) and have more breaks (28%). The research further showed that many nurses claim they’ve observed and experienced discrimination based on race, sex, or age (24% and 21%). And a fifth claim they’ve witnessed harassment or mistreatment at the workplace based on identity (18%). One-third (32%) further noted they don’t feel supported by their employer. Almost one in five nurses even shared that they have a side job outside of nursing (17%) because they want to bring in more money for their families (69%), pay off their debt (42%) and balance the stress of being a nurse (28%). Overall, the changes nurses want to see in their profession to help them feel empowered is to have better communication with upper management (57%), opportunities to negotiate salaries (57%), better equipment/medical gear (38%) and chances of promotion (35%). “Many nurses entered the profession because it was a calling and is a job that they love,” added Jeanloz. “If they feel burnt out and taken advantage of by the system when they show up to work, they will lose sight of why they became nurses in the first place. We owe it to them to offer the flexibility that so many other workers enjoy so they can be the best nurses they can be.”

If time travel were possible, a third of seniors would go back in time to relive a particular part of their lives (33%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans 65 and older found that 36% wish they had the knowledge that they have today about different areas of life – like love, finances or health – when they were younger; and this information may have been so valuable that the same percentage claim they would have made different decisions (36%). If they could relive any decade of their life, seniors would mostly opt for their 30s (30%) or 20s (25%), remembering these as the happiest decades of their lives. Conducted by OnePoll for BrightStar Care, the survey also found that if they had the chance to redo one major decision, people would have saved more money (20%) or invested earlier (14%), which may be why many wish they were better advised about money (39%) and education (38%) when they were younger. However, half of seniors admit they’ve received advice from someone they didn’t think much of at the time, but followed later on and similarly, 49% ignored some advice they were given. Still, 36% said regardless of the past, they’re happy with their life as it is and the same percentage believe the errors they made in the past benefitted them by teaching valuable life lessons in the long run. "It's healthy to reminisce about your youth and take a deep look at all you have accomplished and learned through the years,” said Shelly Sun, founder and CEO of BrightStar Care, Shelly Sun. With age comes wisdom, and reflecting on past experiences can serve not only as cherished memories but as grounds to impart knowledge to younger generations.” And 42% would miss their current life if things were different than they are now. When asked what advice they would give to their own selves in their 20s, people said they would “accept challenges,” tell themselves to “follow your intuition” and “don’t be afraid to seize life.” With the knowledge they have now, seniors would feel confident advising the younger generations about education (41%), money (37%) and health (36%). They’d also share wise words like “always be prepared,” “be humble at all times” and “eliminate negative thoughts.” Other respondents would tell people in their 20s that it’s important to “be patient and open to hearing and listening at the same time,” not “let others decide your choice for you” and “enjoy every step in life.” “Aging is a privilege that should be celebrated at every stage of one's life,” Sun continued. “In your twenties, it's hard to imagine what your life will be when you're 65+, however, if you sit back and listen to the powerful advice seniors have to offer, you'll find worthwhile insights that can help prepare you for your future.”

Two in three parents were already staking out the best deals for their kids’ holiday gifts all the way back in September, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 parents of kids 0-18 looked at how they’re planning on getting their hands on the perfect gift for their child and found that 42% said their child is anticipating a hot-ticket item for the holidays this year. This may be why the average parent is checking on prices for certain items four times a week, with 38% doing so more than four times in a week and parents of kids 4-6 and 13-15 being the most alert to prices. While 36% said that their budget this year is tighter than last, 34% actually have a bit more to spend. On average, parents are budgeting $220 for each child – with the highest budgets for 7-12-year-olds – but 28% are trying to keep it below $100. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of The Toy Association, the survey found that when holiday shopping for their kids, parents run into issues around product availability (42%) and not knowing what to get (29%). Results showed that 44% of parents admitted if they were struggling with finding the hot-ticket item their child wanted for the holidays, they would consider purchasing it from an unknown seller, with parents of early teens being the most likely to. While four in five parents would be suspicious if they saw a hot-ticket item being sold for a much cheaper price from an online seller they weren’t familiar with, 41% would still be tempted to buy it without checking the seller. “It’s that time of year when parents and other shoppers are searching for fun and unique gifts for kids – but it’s important to keep safety in mind,” said Jennifer Gibbons, a spokesperson at The Toy Association. “Illicit online sellers will try to take advantage of consumers by enticing them with much lower prices or the promise of getting a ‘hot toy.’ But fake, noncompliant products might be dangerous – and should be avoided. Check that a seller has a professional-looking website, and that product descriptions are free from spelling errors and typos. Poorly photoshopped images of a product are another clue that you might be dealing with a fake.” Parents may also have to worry about their child whose grandparents are involved if they purchase from online sellers since one in five are not confident that their child's grandparents know how to gauge an online toy seller's authenticity (21%). And there’s a good chance that this may be the bulk of the gifts kids get since 71% of parents whose child’s grandparents are around said that they’re likely to spoil them during the holiday season, with grandparents getting them an average of five gifts per child. Parents will be paying close attention, however, with three-quarters agreeing that anything purchased from an unknown seller should be thoroughly inspected before being gifted (76%). This year, parents of kids 0-12 are being more careful than last, with just 29% saying they consider age labels on toys as more of a suggestion than as a warning compared to 40% last year. Still, 60% of parents said they would allow their child to play with a toy where the recommended age on the package is older than their child. “Following the age label on toy packaging can protect a child from preventable injury,” added Gibbons. “Age labels are established by experts who work in child safety and development. In particular, toys labeled 3+ might contain small parts that are a choking hazard to children under three. And the absence of any age label at all could indicate that a toy is a counterfeit since these sellers do not prioritize safety. By following safe shopping practices and purchasing only from reputable sellers and known brands – whose legitimate toys comply with more than 100 safety tests required by law – families can help ensure this holiday is both fun and safe for children.”

“Worse now than ever before.” Seven in 10 Americans are facing unprecedented levels of passive aggression in the workplace, according to a new survey. The poll of 2,000 employed adults who have witnessed passive-aggressive behaviors found 69% stated it has become a problem at their workplace. Nearly half (48%) said the behaviors have increased since the pre-Covid era. Nearly two-thirds (64%) witness passive-aggressive behaviors in their workplace at least once a week. One in five (19%) women witness passive-aggressive behaviors every day, whereas 12% of men witness it at the same rate.

It might serve as a convenient scapegoat for disrupted sleep and missed appointments, but three in five Americans don’t actually mind daylight saving time all that much. Changing the clocks twice a year, though? That’s another story entirely. According to a recent survey of 2,000 respondents, three in five feel positively about daylight saving time as a general concept – but also still think the practice of moving clocks an hour forward and back should be abolished. Reported by OnePoll on behalf of Pacific Coast, the survey also revealed that over half of those polled (55%) own at least one analog clock they still need to fix manually. Four in 10 would prefer a permanent form of daylight saving, where the sun rises and sets later in the day on a year-round basis. As it stands, the typical respondent needs 66 hours, or over two and a half days, to adjust to a new routine after the clocks change. Compared to men, women like it less (56% vs. 43%) and actively dislike it more (16% vs. 6%) perhaps because it takes them an extra three hours to adjust. Age may also play a role, too, as baby boomers (ages 56-78) are almost twice more likely than Gen Xers (ages 42-55) and 11 times more likely than millennials (ages 26-41) to hold a negative view of daylight-saving time. Of the three generations, boomers also seem to get the most sleep overall – almost half an hour more than gen Xers and a full hour more than millennials. Just over a third get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep a night, and another third only get between four and five hours. And only 60% keep a fairly consistent sleep schedule of going to bed and waking up around the same time each day. “It’s important to be gentle and understanding with yourself when daylight saving rolls around – after all, gaining and losing that hour of time can throw off your circadian rhythm,” a spokesperson from Pacific Coast advised. “Consider going to sleep a little earlier than you would otherwise, or allow yourself more time to unwind and relax before bed.” Not surprisingly, if given a choice between being given the “perfect sleeping arrangements” and the power to make daylight savings permanent, most respondents (45%) would choose the former. So what would that “perfect” sleep entail? Forty percent said it would have to be climate controlled, such as the temperature of the room (40%) and their mattress (37%) or bedding quality (27%). Regardless, the average respondent replaces their pillow every one to two years, which aligns with common recommendations from experts. Of those polled, three in five tend to prefer a “soft” or “medium” pillow, while only one in five favor a “firm” level of comfort. “To create your perfect bedding oasis, determine your sleep preferences, like your sleep position, preferred pillow firmness, the level of support needed for your neck and spine, and if you suffer from allergies,” advised the Pacific Coast spokesperson. “These factors, along with the quality of your bedding will help you to achieve the most restful and restorative sleep.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Pacific Coast between October 14 and October 15, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Going on a solo date (16%), conquering a fear (20%), writing a letter to themselves (14%), and going to the doctor more to care for their health (26%) are some things Americans say they want to experience before hitting the big 4-0. That’s according to a recent poll of 2,000 adults, evenly split by generation, that asked respondents to list the top things one should experience by that age. Almost one in five Americans also believe people should watch the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square in person at least once in their lives before turning 40. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of VSP Vision Care, the data found that 83% of respondents have been planning for their futures, and 73% are optimistic about what’s to come in their lives. But how have people been planning for the future? Most respondents said by exercising more or going to the doctor (54%), saving money (52%) and setting realistic goals (42%). And with all of these goals in mind, it’s no surprise that four in five believe it’s important to have clear vision and healthy eyes to experience these moments in life (79%). “Eye health can affect so many aspects of our lives from work to school and all of those special moments in between, because so much of how we interact with the world is visual,” said Dr. Valerie Sheety-Pilon, vice president of clinical and medical affairs at VSP Vision. “Receiving an annual eye exam is a simple yet powerful way to make sure you enjoy all of life’s great moments.” The survey further delved into people’s futures, revealing what younger and older generations see for themselves. Gen Zers (18 to 25) see themselves receiving a promotion/raise and starting a family a decade from now (both 19%). Meanwhile, millennials (26 to 41) picture themselves owning a business (28%) and a home (23%), as well as growing their families (19%) and securing a better job (16%). On the other hand, Gen X (42 to 57) wants to focus more on becoming healthier (21%) and traveling with a person they love (19%). The results suggest that boomers (58 to 76) plan to put their health first in their later years (45%) and also look forward to traveling with a loved one in 10 years (19%). While three in four are thankful they have good health (74%), more respondents think one is never too young or old to get screened for health conditions (79%). When asked if they knew eye exams could detect other health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, seven in 10 responded they were aware (72%), but 28% didn’t know that was the case. And if they knew that information sooner, 27% said they would go to an optometrist more often. “Optometrists have a unique vantage point into the health of your bodies through your eyes,” continued Dr. Sheety-Pilon. “In fact, eye exams not only help ensure clear vision, but they can also provide early detection of up to 270 health conditions, making now the perfect time to enroll in a vision benefit plan and prioritize both your eye and overall health.”

Two in five (43%) Americans miss the chaos of in-person Black Friday shopping each year. A poll of 2,003 U.S. adults found 95% plan to participate in Black Friday and Cyber Monday events for 2022, with a third planning to shop both online and in-store. Not having to wait in lines makes online sales for both events appealing (46%), more so than avoiding COVID-19 risks (36%) and not having to stay up all night (31%) to shop in person. But the survey, commissioned by UserTesting and conducted by OnePoll, found shopping in actual stores is en vogue again. People who said they tend to shop holiday sales online claimed they’d be more motivated to frequent brick-and-mortar stores this year for Black Friday as long as they get instant gratification when shopping (46%) and have the availability of curbside shopping (28%). More Gen Z respondents than millennials cited immediate fulfillment as their primary driver to shop these events in person (81% vs. 49%). Overall, 42% said in-store Black Friday shopping holds more importance for them than it did before the pandemic, including nearly half (49%) of male respondents. And 63% consider in-store Black Friday shopping to be a tradition. But there are some parts of e-commerce people wish they could bring into a brick-and-mortar store, such as being able to see what aisle an item is in (51%) and using promo codes or digital coupons (47%). Some also face barriers to partaking in this year’s in-store events, including lack of convenience due to weather conditions and long lines (34%), seeing better deals online (34%), and health and safety concerns (33%). “The pandemic has certainly made many people nostalgic for the in-person Black Friday experience, but it’s also heightened their expectations,” said Janelle Estes, Chief Insights Officer at UserTesting. “Our research shows half of consumers who plan to shop in stores for this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday events would like smart shopping carts to navigate through the aisles and easily find products.” Despite ongoing inflation, nearly a third (31%) expect to spend more money on Black Friday and Cyber Monday than in previous years. The average person spent $441 three years ago and plans to buy $557 worth of on-sale items in 2022. However, their increased spending is strategic, as 48% plan to spread their holiday shopping out across a longer period of time due to economic uncertainties. “With 42% saying they plan to shop in the metaverse this year, brands must continuously work to become more phygital, bridging the gap between the physical and digital customer experience,” Janelle added. “That includes maintaining consistent quality both in-store and online, as well as keeping consumers engaged by using features such as augmented reality, live video shopping, or digital kiosks.”

Half of employed Americans have been so frustrated with their workplace tech that they’ve switched jobs — or are actively applying, according to new research. The survey of 1,000 hybrid or remote workers and 1,000 IT professionals found 11% have left their job to find better tech, while 42% have applied to other jobs without actually switching. Results found that 20% “always” have bad experiences with their workplace technology, facing an average of 18 frustrations during the average work week — adding up to 102 minutes of lost productivity weekly. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Compucom, the survey delved into the specific frustrations respondents face, and it also asked IT workers for their professional opinions about workplace tech. When asked what their daily frustrations are, slow websites topped the list (35%) — followed by a lack of access to certain online resources when working from home (28%) and needing to restart their computer (28%). Issues connecting when switching from in-office and at-home use (27%) and having to troubleshoot problems by themselves (25%) rounded out the top five issues. The microphone or microphone not working (25%), having to repeatedly input their password (24%) and needing a password to perform any updates on their computer (23%) also contribute to respondents’ frustration. Some of these problems may simply be caused by old technology — a quarter of respondents said the tech they use for work is at least five years old. Not only are these issues frustrating, but they may lead to bigger security risks: 79% have switched to their personal devices after facing tech issues. If companies invested more in their technology, employee satisfaction and retention would increase, according to 93% of respondents. Results also found that good tech can lead to more engaged employees — 77% of respondents would be more committed to their role if their company provided them with better technology. “We know that employee experience is directly correlated to customer experience. A good employee experience usually translates to a better overall customer experience,” said Heather Lockhart, Compucom CMO. Results found, too, that 65% place great importance on having good technology for work. This is even more important for respondents who work at enterprise companies (companies with 1001+ employees) — of those, 71% placed a great value on good tech. Because of how important technology is to today’s workforce, respondents were also asked about the IT teams at their company — and generally, the attitude was positive. During the past year, specifically, 53% said their company’s IT team has been easy to work with. Employees surveyed also found IT to be responsive, and even more helpful over the past year — with the switch to remote and hybrid work — than they were previously (both 48%). That positive feeling extended the other way, as well: 88% of IT professionals surveyed have felt more valued by their company since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, the survey asked IT professionals what they’d like people to understand about their role. Forty-five percent of IT professionals surveyed said “it’s easy to blame IT when things go wrong, but we’re underappreciated when things are working right,” while 41% wanted people to understand that systems and software require constant maintenance and upkeep. Others said that it always takes more time than people think to fix tech issues (44%) — and that training and learning new platforms and applications for troubleshooting is endless (41%). A third of IT respondents (36%) would also like their colleagues to know that “simple” requests aren’t always simple. And one respondent wanted others to know, “I am a person with real feelings” — which should always be considered when requests are being made. “With today’s hybrid workforce relying on technology more than ever, what we do is critically important,” said Lockhart. “And we are uniquely positioned to optimize the employee experience because we provide the crucial end-to-end capabilities and support required to enable effective hybrid work.”

The average American begins to notice the signs of aging at the age of 42, but 15% noticed themselves getting older before age 35. That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 Americans with representative samples for Gen Z, millennials, Gen-X and baby boomer respondents, where respondents believe they were at the peak of their health at the age of 34. On top of that, 46% of Gen X were unaware they couldn’t engage in the same fitness or diet regimens as they could when they were younger until they were over 40.

More than a third of Americans (35%) won’t even think about purchasing a house until they have at least $200,000 saved up, according to new research. A survey of 1,000 homeowners and 1,000 general population Americans looked at some of the most common misconceptions and experiences of purchasing a home for the first time. Among those looking to purchase a home, respondents believed the top items needed to secure a home loan are money (52%), a steady job (49%) and good credit (48%). Conducted by OnePoll in partnership with loanDepot, the survey also uncovered some of the most common home-buying myths. Many believe they need a near-perfect credit score (30%) - while the average respondent erroneously believed they have to make a down payment of at least 25% to purchase a home. “In this market, it’s easy to get caught up in just trying to get a house, but don’t let all of that lead you down the wrong path,” said loanDepot’s vice president of community lending Jesus Cruz. “Make sure you know your priorities, and that you’ve really thought through your budget and planned for different scenarios that could arise in the future. There are a lot of programs and loan options available to first-time home buyers, so it’s important to keep a cool head and work closely with your lender to understand the different mortgage options that are right for you.” Higher interest rates, rising home prices and common myths aren’t the only reason non-homeowners have shied away from searching for a home; forty-four percent of those who don’t own a home said they hadn’t purchased yet because they feel they need to have every other part of their life in order first. As part of their criteria for choosing a home, those surveyed consider their income (34%) and total cost (32%) as the most important factors – stressing the importance of budget in the process. With the highly competitive housing market making home buying a challenge, one in seven respondents considering a home purchase said their decision not to enter the market came after hearing negative stories from other homeowners about their purchasing experience. Surprisingly, those who have purchased reported the process was smoother than anticipated (64%), with a remarkable two-thirds sharing that the paperwork and legalities were actually quite easy. Regardless of whether the process itself was easier than expected or overwhelming (27%), others ultimately found the homebuying journey to be exciting (35%) and joyous (28%) because they landed in a home. Homeowners offered advice to those looking to purchase a home: One respondent suggested to “be patient and don’t settle.” Others said to “be smart about budgeting for your mortgage and the total cost of housing” and “find out everything that is involved [in the closing], especially fees and hidden costs.” “The advice homeowners passed on to would-be home buyers is sound – especially as it relates to the cost of purchasing and owning a home,” said loanDepot’s chief credit officer Brian Rugg. “It’s so important to work with a reputable lender, who will make you comfortable and take the time to walk you through all aspects of the purchase – especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. It’s also really important to think beyond the purchase price itself. You have to pay close attention to the home’s condition and factor in the cost of maintenance and future upgrades. For most people, owning a home is the bedrock of the American Dream, but you need to go into it with your eyes wide open and understand what it means for you and your budget. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Nearly half of homeowners (46%) wish they had bought their homes earlier, but 59% felt the process was a rushed experience. Meanwhile, most parents surveyed shared that they needed to buy a home so their kids can inherit it and be comfortable later in life (59%).

Seven in 10 (71%) Americans said the pandemic changed their target retirement age, a recent survey found. A new poll of 2,002 U.S. adults ages 35–70 discovered the pandemic has had far-reaching effects on how employees are planning both their retirement and “pretirement” – a new life stage serving as a transition period between full-time work and retirement. The survey split respondents by how they would describe their pandemic experience on a five-point scale, from “very easy” to “very difficult.” It found that 71% of those who had a “very difficult” time (659 respondents) now plan to retire later in life. People who rated their pandemic experience as “very difficult” were also more likely to aim to volunteer for a group, nonprofit, or other organization leading up to full retirement (49%). Two-thirds of all respondents said they had a somewhat or very difficult time during the pandemic.

Is “revenge travel” the new way to vacation? A survey of 2,000 Americans who have traveled internationally in the last 14 months revealed 66% have a desire to “revenge travel” — defined as wanting to travel more, after feeling like they missed out on time and experiences due to the pandemic. And respondents are making the most of the return to travel; as many travel restrictions have lifted, 57% of Americans surveyed were able to take a “once-in-a-lifetime” adventure in 2022. For those who did, this included seeing something or someone who won’t be there in 10 years (22%), using a travel agent to take the stress out of traveling (21%) and traveling to where their family is originally from (21%). But whether it was a “once-in-a-lifetime” adventure or not, the survey found that Americans were generally positive about any travel experience in the past 14 months. They have the same sentiment toward future travels, too: after the pause on international travel, 80% said they need a vacation in 2023 more than ever before. Commissioned by Exodus Travels and conducted by OnePoll, results revealed that 77% have felt more like themselves, as a result of their recent travels. And 80% said that returning to travel in the past 14 months has been good for their soul and for their well-being. That doesn’t mean their trip was perfect: changing COVID-19 restrictions forced some respondents to reschedule (37%), while others dealt with lost luggage (35%) or delayed and canceled flights (31%). However, the good news is that even of those who faced issues while traveling, 84% said their trip was still completely worth it — and 85% said that, despite any difficulties, they’d happily do it all over again if given the chance. “To travel and discover, to explore new places, meet new people, encounter different cultures and experience nature’s wild beauty is in our DNA,” said Andy Crang, Exodus Travels Marketing Director. “Television, movies, social media, books … these were all great substitutes while travel was on pause, but for many of us getting out in the world and setting out on new adventures is an intrinsic part of who we are. “So, despite some of the challenges that this post-pandemic return to travel has thrown at us — the flight delays and cancellations, lost luggage, long line-ups, etc. — the results of this poll tell us that the joy of 2022 and 2023 travel and the happiness it brings with it far outweighs any hiccups we encounter along the way.” Not only are American adventurers reflecting fondly on their past trips, but many are already thinking about the future. The majority of respondents already have another international trip (71%) and a domestic trip (65%) planned for the coming years. And 77% of Americans surveyed would recommend that others start traveling again, too. Respondents were asked what advice they’d share with others, who are planning trips. The top piece of advice? Book now, to take advantage of many airlines offering no fees for canceling or changing flights (58%). That was followed by advice to travel with a tour operator or a travel agent so they can help if something unexpected happens (57%) and spending extra money if needed, in order to fly on an airline without change fees (56%). “It has always been the case but now it’s just more evident and relevant than ever — booking your trip with a tour operator or travel agent is the best and easiest way to ensure a seamless travel experience,” said Crang. “If there are delays or cancellations, if something gets rescheduled, you’ll have an expert support person to turn to for answers and advice, someone who will work on your behalf to get things back on track.” WHAT MADE IT A “ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME” ADVENTURE? Saw something/someone who won’t be there in 10 years (ex. a changing landscape, an older relative, etc.) — 22% Used a travel agent, which took the stress out of traveling — 21% Traveled to where my family is originally from — 21% It was a longer trip than I would normally take — 20% Saw something I’ve always wanted to (ex. the Northern Lights) — 20% Got engaged while traveling or went on my honeymoon — 20% Used a tour operator, which took the stress out of traveling — 19% Met a new friend/started a new relationship — 19% Traveled to a new continent — 19% Traveled internationally for the first time — 18% WHAT ADVICE WOULD RESPONDENTS SHARE, AS PEOPLE PLAN TRIPS? Book now, to take advantage of many airlines offering no fees for canceling or changing flights — 58% Traveling through a tour operator or a travel agent so they can help if something unexpected happens — 57% It’s worth the extra money to fly on an airline without change fees, in case of changing COVID-19 cases — 56% Always have a book or activity for the airport, in case of delays — 49% Try to travel with just a carry-on — 37%