More women buying cellular phones
Results of a new study by Natick, Massachusetts-based Venture Development Corporation indicate that women now account for 24 percent of all cellular telephone purchases, with some dealers claiming at least one-third of their cellular phone sales going to women. In 1987, this same figure was under 12 percent. VDC expects the number of women buying cellular phones to continue to rise as the industry starts paying attention to this audience.
Keeping in mind that there are many reasons why women buy cellular phones, the primary cause is personal safety on the road (to be able to call for help if the car breaks down, or if danger seems imminent). A number of male executives who own car phones also purchase a second model for their wives or daughters for the same reason.
Snow big deal for skiers
The lack of snow, the high cost of lift tickets, and the state of the economy have apparently resulted in limited growth for the ski industry over the past few years. In spite of all of the problems, almost one out of five adults plans to go skiing during the next 12 months and that would mean a tremendous 90-91 season for the ski slopes.
A recent study conducted by Bruskin Associates reveals that 34% of all adults have ever gone skiing, 8% went skiing during the past 12 months, and 19% plan to do so during the next 12 months. Similar questions asked by Bruskin during 1986 revealed that 32% had ever gone skiing, 12% had done so during the last 12 months, and 21% planned to go.
The sport continues to have greatest appeal among men, people 18 to 24 years of age, those with household incomes of $40,000 or more and people living in the West.
Executives identify employee attributes
Good manners and getting along with others mean more to your career than dressing well and looking good, according to a national survey of executives and professionals conducted by Communication Briefings, a monthly communication management newsletter.
When asked for the top three traits preferred in employees, 84 percent of the respondents cited interpersonal communication skills, such as good manners and the ability to get along well with other. Some 79 percent said the ability to write well is important. Sixty-eight percent noted that they look for good speaking abilities.
The survey found that two common success measures lagged. Only 40 percent of those surveyed placed educational background and work experience in the top-three category. Personal appearance placed last, with only 18 percent of those surveyed saying it was important.
Environmental concerns affect car buying
Results from a recent national telephone survey conducted by Maritz Marketing Research Inc. suggest be widespread consumer interest in vehicles that have reduced tailpipe emissions or which run on cleaner-burning fuels. The poll was conducted before Congress passed the clean-air bill and shows an overwhelming majority of Americans are worried about the effect of automobiles on the environment. Eighty-eight percent of men and 90% of women describe themselves as concerned or very concerned about the issue.
The poll also suggests a manufacturer' s reputation on environmental issues affects the car-buying decision. When deciding which auto to buy, 46% say reputation is very important, while 35% say it's important. Only 14% don't take environmental reputation into consideration. Women, more so than men, rank the issue as very important The poll reports some good news about the image of American auto manufacturers. Nearly one-third of people perceive them to be more environmentally conscious than the Japanese or the Europeans. Only 18% of people think the Japanese auto manufacturers are more environmentally conscious. Even fewer, 13%, think European car makers are more in tune with the environment. A large segment of the population, however, is undecided.