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Men expect to find work quicker if they lose their jobs, but feel less secure in their jobs than women.

Most everyone is worried about the job market in general, and with good reason. The unemployment rate has been higher than average for years, and improvements have been painfully slow.

But it turns out, the specifics of what they’re worried about differ for men and women.

A new survey from Randstad finds that men are more likely than women to say the economy has had a negative effect on their career plans. Fifty-one percent of men feel that way, compared to 41 percent of women.

Men also are more likely to say they feel left behind in their careers, with 39 percent of men complaining that the economy had that effect compared to 31 percent of women. Men are also slightly more likely to be extremely worried about losing their jobs.

But the Randstad survey of about 3,000 full-time workers, which was conducted in February, finds that women are more jittery about what would happen if they actually did lose their jobs.

Women are slightly more likely than men to say they don’t think they could find a new job right away that they would want to accept.

In addition, women expect that it would take them longer to find a new job. The average amount of time women said they think it would take to find a new job is 5.4 months, compared to 4.7 months for men.

Kate Gallagher Robbins, senior policy analyst with the National Women’s Law Center, said women may be more worried about finding a new job because they are seeing other women lose good-paying jobs in fields such as the public sector, and either strggling to find new work at all or taking a job that pays less.

“They’re really not hearing may good stories about women’s jobs right now,” Robbins said.

On the other hand, men — and particularly young men — may feel particularly hard hit because the early part of the recession was so hard on them, she noted.

During the recession, men were losing jobs at such a fast pace that some dubbed it a “mancession.” But as the economy officially went into recovery, meaning it was slowly growing again, men started seeing job gains at a much faster clip than women. Only recently have things started to even out. 

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The unemployment rate for men was 8.2 percent in April, down from a high of 11.2 percent in late 2009. For women, the unemployment rate was 8 percent in April, down from a high of 9 percent in late 2010.

It turns out there are other ways in which men and women react differently to work stress.

A separate study from the University of Calgary, which was also recently released, found that high levels of job strain increased the risk of depression in full-time male workers, but not of full-time female workers.

On the other hand, women who felt unappreciated in their jobs had a higher risk for depression, while the researchers didn’t see the same correlation for men.

The results were first reported by MyHealthNewsDaily.

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Results with 10 short comments

I am in the same career and have actually been taking courses to enhgance and update my knowledge of the field

I’m a stay at home dad.

I’ve been unable to find work in my professional career since 2/09. I also have a disability and age are serious issues. Not too optimist

I’ve always worked hard to make the company succeed (not for myself)…when I was laid off, within an hour I had a job offer 2 interviews

As a self employed Healthcare IT consultant, I have been very busy since the start of 2010. I have turned down work for time off.

I have left the health insurance industry after making pretty decent money. My last job offer was commission only, starting from the bottom

All of the above except “my career hasn’t been affected.”

I was getting laid off at every job and when I was about to give up I got hired by a fabulous company with fabulous benefits!

The Obama administration’s use of banks as a scapegoat cost me my job.

Hopefully, the weak economy is not a permanent situation for America as it seems to be for some European countries.

Where you live may be hampering your economic potential.

If you live in New York, New Jersey or Maryland, chances are your prospects for moving up the ladder of financial success are better than if your home is in Oklahoma, Louisiana or South Carolina.

A study by the Pew Charitable Trust called “Economic Mobility of the States” paints a gloomy picture for many southern states when it comes to whether residents there are likely to have better economic mobility. But many states in the Northeast seem to fare better when it comes to things like average earnings growth.

“When it comes to achieving the American Dream, it matters where you live,” said Erin Currier, project manager of Pew’s Economic Mobility Project, released Wednesday.

The report looked at average earnings for workers ages 35 and 39, and measured those earning from 1978 through 1997. Researchers then looked at how those rose and fell a decade later when the same individuals were 45 and 49.

To measure economic mobility, the researchers looked at absolute mobility – average earnings growth over time – and upward and downward relative mobility – measuring people’s rank on the ladder relative to their peers. 

Here’s a breakdown on the economic mobility winners and losers:

• Eight states, primarily in the Mideast and New England regions, have consistently higher upward and lower downward mobility compared to the nation as a whole: Maryland, New Jersey, and New York have better economic mobility than the national average on all three measures investigated; Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Utah have better mobility than the national average on two measures.
• Nine states, all in the South, have consistently lower upward and higher downward mobility compared to the nation as a whole: Louisiana, Oklahoma, and South Carolina have worse economic mobility than the national average on all three measures investigated; Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Texas have worse mobility than the national average on two measures.

Several factors propel economic mobility, said Nikolai Roussanov, professor of finance at the Wharton School of Business.

“For the bulk of the population, education is the main driver of upward mobility; accessibility to education and educational opportunities,” he said. “But, it’s also determined on how you apply the education, what sort of careers people go into.”

Beyond education, he added, entrepreneurship has the potential to enrich individuals. “The ability and willingness of people to start their own businesses and take risks is a big driver of wealth mobility,” he said.

And just because you don’t live in a region with better overall economic mobility doesn’t mean you won’t succeed, he said. “Even in areas where there is limited access to education there could be people taking big risks, and they can be successful and move up,” he said.

The Pew numbers tell an interesting story on where the better job opportunities may be, and it seems employers also see the potential.

Another study on mobility, this one from national moving company Atlas Van Lines, found that the Northeast is the top transfer location for companies relocating employees.

Atlas reported earlier this month that: “The Northeast is now the top destination of transfers (42 percent) followed by 2011’s top destination, the Midwest (37 percent) and the South (31 percent). The West remains fourth in relocation numbers (26 percent).”

If your company isn’t willing to move you, or you don’t have a job yet, it might be a smart idea to consider relocating yourself to a state offering more potential when it comes to upward economic mobility.

The Pew study also found those individuals who moved out of the state where they were born had “better mobility outcomes on average.”

To find out how your state fared in the study go check out Pew’s interactive map.

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Just as speed dating adds more stress to the search for a mate, speed interviewing is sure to make the job hunt more tense.

Yes, speed interviewing.

In at least one extreme example, workers are being given just one minute to sell their skills to a hiring manager. If they fall short, they are out the door.

That’s the approach MediConnect Global has been taking with its interview process. Even though it may sound like a nightmare for some job seekers, it has worked out great for the medical records company and some lucky employees who passed the test.

When Zane Davis, 34, a client services representative, interviewed at Mediconnect two years ago, he was told before the meeting that he’d have less than a minute to pitch himself to a panel of company managers. “I had never heard of a company doing these speed interviews,” he said.

Davis, who had been a welder and was looking to change careers, said, “They wanted to know why they should hire me within 30 seconds or so.”

When he got to the company’s offices in Salt Lake City, Utah, there were 12 other job candidates waiting for the quick why-you-should-hire-me interview spiel. He recalled everyone else had flashcards they were studying, but he decided to focus on being confident and highlighting the skills he could bring to the table.

“I don’t remember what I said, but it worked,” he said. The company called him back for about five minutes of follow-up questions that day, and about a week later he was offered the job. “It’s kind of a nerve-racking experience, and very humbling.”

While quick back-to-back, rapid-fire interviews with multiple candidates have been a fixture at job fairs, tactic is unusual within the  confines of company offices.

Many job seekers have reported a growing trend in the opposite direction, with employers putting applicants through endless hours of interviews. (I recently wrote about the phenomenon.)

“We have not received much pick-up amongst our clients in regards to speed-dating type interviews,” said Bob Kovalsky, senior vice president for Adecco Staffing. “The process that the majority of our clients uses is one that’s a bit more comprehensive.”

But using the speed-dating type format is not unheard of.

Booz Allen Hamilton uses “a technique where candidates can go from table to table to meet with interviewers who represent differing capabilities of the firm,” said James Fisher, a spokesman for the consulting firm.  “This helps us ensure that we’re making the best match of candidate skills and job opportunities.” 

In a post on the jobs website Glassdoor, one anonymous job seeker likened it to “speed dating.”

“I don’t know that we would use the term ‘speed dating,’” Fisher said.

In situations where employers want to churn through lots of applicants quickly, some hiring managers are using the tactic, said Jay Meschke, president of recruiting firm EFL Associates.

He’s not convinced, however, it’s a smart move. “Sure people want applicants to meet with as many people as possible in a short amount of time, but what can you learn in a few minutes?”

Quite a lot, according to MediConnect CEO Amy Rees Anderson.

About two years ago, she heard about speed dating and thought it might be a great way to review many job applicants in a short time. While she began by giving candidates just 30 second to pitch themselves, she ultimately decided one minute was best.

“The purpose of that minute is to get a sense of their confidence, personality, ability to represent themselves,” she said.

Before the candidates make their brief presentations, the company has them complete skills, IQ and personality tests. “By the time they come for the interview we’ve got a pretty good profile of them,” she explained.

Sometimes applicants are nervous, she said, but the managers don’t hold that against them. Too much confidence can get you booted. “Someone that came in was so overly aggressive about why we should hire him, and when his time was up he refused to leave,” she said.

Two memorable applicants, she said, did something out of the ordinary. One candidate brought in 5-hour Energy drinks because he thought the managers conducting the interviews might be tired. And another applicant pulled out a huge stack of dollar bills, laid them on the table before his pitch, and picked them up when he left. “It caught our attention, made us remember him,” she said.

Verisk Analytics Inc. bought MediConnect in March. Officials from the parent company recently asked Anderson to walk them through the speed-interviewing process because they’re considering expanding the technique.

It’s not just about the words they say, or how creative they are, Anderson said. “You get a sense of the person,” she said. “They come in and tell us about themselves.”

Jason R. Henske / AP

Dartmouth College graduates Greg Agron and John Agbaje laugh as Conan O’Brien delivers the commencement address in 2011. New research finds that college grads with business degrees may face better job prospects.

If you are heading off to college in the fall and looking to get the most bang for your buck, you may want to major in business.

IBISWorld, an industry analysis firm, took a look at fields that are expected to see the most growth in the next five years. Then, they looked at which of the most popular college degrees a person would need to get a job in those industries.

The analysis found that business grads had the most positive outlook through 2017. That’s because business graduates are most likely to work in industries where higher-than-average job and wage growth are expected.

Those fields include commercial banking, reinsurance carriers and human resources. Jobs typically held by business degree holders pay an average $70,000 a year, which is expected to rise to $77,000 by 2017, IBISWorld said.

A degree in health sciences also is likely to serve you well. The IBISWorld analysis found that job growth in health-related fields such as primary care, dentistry and nursing care will be about on par with the overall economy, but wages will grow at a slightly faster rate.

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The outlook is less promising for people who major in social sciences, history and education.

Other research has shown that college graduates are more likely to be employed if they choose a major with a specific career path, including business.  But that research, from Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce, was more bullish on education because of the projected low unemployment rate in that field.

If you don’t have a head for business or an interest in health care, that’s not necessarily a reason to fret. Other research has shown that just going to college should give you a leg up in life over those who don’t.

The unemployment rate for people with a college degree or higher was just 4 percent in April, compared with 8.1 percent for the general population. College grads also are likely to make more money than their less educated peers.

Related:

The upside to not saving for your child’s college education

Yes, college degree has value – try $1 million

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Results with 6 short comments

I have an Associate of Arts Humanities and Bachelor of Science Management graduated with honors 3.81. I work as Quality Engineer for Alcoa

Liberal Arts degrees are worthless. Get a real degree and get a real job.

Chemical Engineering + MBA = maximum flexibility.

Yes, get an empty degree that allows you to feed off the REAL labor of others, like financial manager. We need more rich parasites.

I’m too old, but I wish I could go to law school.

Two political science degrees, and I make $105K annually. These articles are complete baloney.

The Diamondback Sorrento starts at $300.

Spring weather has many people pulling their bikes out of storage and topping off the air in the tires for the first ride of the season — or realizing it’s going to take a lot more than that to get a once-trusty ride on the road again. If it’s been a while since you looked for a new mountain bike, you may be surprised at the quality you can find in the $150 to $400 range. This segment of the market, once sparsely populated by Frankenstein’s monsters of mountain- and road-bike parts, is now home to nimbler models with many more speeds.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable mountain bikes.

• The Diamondback Sorrento (starting at $300) is lightweight yet heavy-duty, reviewers say, and also easy to put together. Its solid build and impressive performance attract repeat buyers. (Where to buy)
• The Trek 3 Series 3500(starting at $399) is the most expensive bike on our list and one of the only budget models available at specialty bike shops, as opposed to large chains and online outlets. Experts call it stable and agile and riders appreciate the disc brakes, a notable feature at this price. (Where to buy)
• The Schwinn Ridge AL (starting at $225) is a rare find: a low-cost women’s mountain bike that earns mostly positive reviews. The shorter top tube, narrower handlebars, and wider seat might seem like minor variations, but they make the bike safer and more comfortable for female riders. (Where to buy)
• The Genesis V2100(starting at $129) is exclusive to Wal-Mart. It’s the cheapest bike on our list yet the only one with dual suspension, a feature uncommon on budget models. Riders say the full suspension (on both wheels) makes for an exceptionally smooth ride. (Where to buy)

Even though they typically have front-only suspension, the best budget mountain bikes can tackle rough pavement and well-maintained trails. These are entry-level models, however, and many riders caution against pushing the limits of more demanding terrain.

Like most other low-cost mountain bikes these days, the models above have 21 speeds and aluminum frames. Aluminum is lighter but typically no less durable than steel; it’s also rust-resistant. An aluminum frame makes it easier to pick up speed and push, carry, or otherwise transport the bike.

A couple of the models on our list stand out for their brakes. The Trek 3 Series 3500 boasts disc brakes, which are generally reserved for higher-end mountain bikes. While standard V-brakes or linear-pull brakes work by pressing on the rims of the wheels, disc brakes surround the hubs of the wheels. The Genesis V2100 has a disc brake in the front and a linear-pull brake in the back.

One of the biggest trends in mountain bikes is toward “29ers” — bikes with 29-inch wheels that roll more easily over obstacles. The Coloradoan reports that these now account for nearly a quarter of mountain bike sales, up from 10 percent at the end of 2010. Alas, this is one luxury none of our picks affords; all the budget models above have standard 26-inch wheels.

• More from Cheapism:
  Cheap mountain bikes 
• Best cheap bike helmets 
• Bike lock reviews 
• Cheap exercise bikes 

Companies that provide employees with generous benefits, including contributing more to retirement funds and absorbing health insurance hikes, are often financially healthier because of it.

A study released Wednesday found employers that offered substantial programs focused on the long-term financial health of their workers saw a host of business dividends as a result, everything from lower turnover to better customer service.

Harvard Business Review Analytic Services surveyed 58 of the 100 companies named to “The Principal 10 Best” list over the past decade and also conducted interviews with executives from 20 employers included on the list. Three quarters of those polled reported that benefits contributed to employee retention and 72 percent said they impacted employee loyalty.

The survey was commissioned by the Principal Financial Group, although companies studied did not necessarily use Principal services.

Despite the tough economy in recent years, firms in the study said they had maintained or increased their benefits packages, including raising retirement contributions in some cases. While some did have their employees pay more for health insurance benefits, the majority ate the increased costs.

Virtually all the firms agreed that they have a “strong sense of responsibility when it comes to providing benefits that protect the financial well-being” of employees and their families. When asked to identify the most significant thing they are doing to impact employees’ financial security, nine out of 10 respondents mentioned retirement programs and cited generous employer contributions.

The majority of companies surveyed also provided one-on-one financial help for employees for retirement planning and have added wellness programs.

As a result of the generous benefits, the employers surveyed said they saw a host of benefits, including:

• Enhanced recruitment
• Committed, engaged employees
• Excellent retention
• Deep organizational expertise
• Safe workplace practices
• Strong customer relationships

The question of whether these employers are more likely to have lucrative benefits because they’re successful, or they’re successful because they provide such perks, wasn’t answered by the study, said Luke Vandermillen, senior vice president of retirement investor services with the Principal Financial Group. However, he said there is “a paternalistic feeling that cuts across these companies.”

The Harvard study shows great benefits are “not only good for employees, but good for those companies that provide well-rounded broad and deep benefit programs,” he said.

 

 

Growing up, I remember watching shows like “Lassie” and movies like “Old Yeller” and “Where the Red Fern Grows.” These were old movies when I was a kid, but they were free to rent from the library, so we watched more than our fair share of old movies.

Because of those shows, I always thought it would have been nice to have a dog. The closest thing we had to a family pet was a turtle that my grandfather and I caught on a fishing trip. I had to keep it outside in a small tub, and after a week or two he ended up missing. Fast forward to adulthood. After buying our house in the fall of 2008, we soon decided to get a dog.

After researching different breeds online, we decided to adopt a retired racing greyhound. He’s been a great dog, and we have no regrets about getting him. He’s well-trained and gets along great with our baby boy. The adoption fee was something like $250, and that included neutering, three months of heartworm pills, a leash and a collar. I thought this was very reasonable. We knew there would be some upfront costs, such as a bed, crate and some toys. And we knew he would need food and vet checkups.

I “knew” that we would have all these expenses. But we were so excited about getting a dog and didn’t really think too much about the long-term costs. I think a lot of people tend to follow that same thought process about getting a pet. It seems like a really good idea, and the upfront costs aren’t too bad. But for a lot people the recurring costs of pet ownership are enough to stretch their monthly budget over the limit of what they can really afford.

The true costs

I just reviewed the final figures for our 2011 expenses (I’m an accountant; I just can’t help myself), and the line item for pets is pretty steep indeed. We spent just over $1,300 on our dog, or around $110 a month. Here is the breakdown:

• Food: $912/year ($76/month)
• Medication (heart-worm and flea preventative): $176/year ($15/month)
• Toys and treats: $100/year ($8/month)
• Vet bills: $120/year ($10/month)

Our annual expense runs a little higher than the national average. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the average annual cost for a large dog is around $900. What drives our cost higher is food. Our dog has some kidney issues and is on special food to help process the nutrients in his food. Needless to say, this food is substantially more expensive than the Purina we used to buy him.

The point is that you never know when something like this will come about and drive up your monthly expenses. Another example? In 2010 we found our dog had a small lump growing on his belly that cost $400 to remove. Thankfully that was only a one-time thing, but again you never know what’s going to happen.

The benefits

While the costs are certainly significant, there are also great benefits to having a dog. We love our dog and would no sooner give him up than we would our son. He’s a great companion and greets me at the door with his tail wagging every evening. When it’s nice outside, he forces us to exercise by taking him out for a walk in the evenings. He even provides some security as he can look pretty intimidating (though he wouldn’t hurt a thing). As our son gets older, it’s nice to know that he’ll have a dog to keep him company. They can play together out in the yard, chase each other through the house, and all those other things little boys do with their dogs. I remember going to my friend’s house and playing with his dogs and what fun it was.

Even going beyond the intangible benefits of pet ownership, there are actual physical benefits as well. A number of studies have shown that pet owners are less stressed, have lower cholesterol, and can even live longer. (See this article at WebMD for 27 such benefits.) Our dog greatly enriches our lives. To us the benefits definitely outweigh the costs.

The bottom line

This is not to say that everyone should or shouldn’t get a pet, but before you actually go and get one you need to seriously look into the future costs and make sure there is room in your monthly budget to handle it. The last thing anyone wants is to bond with a pet for a year or two, then realize that it’s just too difficult to make ends meet from month to month.

More from Forbes.com

• 20 crucial money questions to ask before ‘I do’
• A financial checklist before starting a family
• A 10-step financial plan for new parents
• Homes with incredible pet amenities
• 5 places to save cash

© 2012 Forbes.com

Jill’s Steals and Deals contains great deals offered by retailers to TODAY viewers.

Please click on the following website links to be directed to the offers from the companies we featured, and be sure to read the details. Conditions and restrictions may apply.

If you have any specific questions about these details, please check with the retailers making the offers.

Neither Jill Martin, Hip2Save nor TODAY profits from these recommendations or from sales — we’re just looking to help you find the very best deals. The exclusive deals to TODAY viewers will last about 24 hours, but check the specific retailers’ sites for specific terms and conditions. Prices below do not include any fees or shipping or handling.

Follow TODAY on Facebook so you don’t miss any of these amazing offers!

Watch Jill Martin present these deals on TODAY:

Due to an overwhelming response, some of these products’ sites may experience technical difficulties. Each company is working on resolving their technical issues. Check back here for more information on other ways to purchase them.

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Luminess Spray Tanning System
Retail price: $193.95
Discount price: $68.50
Percent discount: 65% off!
Discount code: TanTODAY
(To purchase the tanning system, click on one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the promo code and click “Continue.” On the next page, scroll to the bottom and click “Continue.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Luminess Tan says their product is streak-free, odorless and “never orange.” It takes less than 30 minutes to apply and lasts up to 14 days, fading gradually after that.

This tanning set includes:

• The Luminess Tan Airbrush System and Stylus
• A starter DVD and guide
• Two 1.5-oz. bottles of Luminess Medium Tanning Solution
• One 1.5-oz. bottle of Luminess Deep Tanning Solution
• One 2-oz. tan extender cream

Luminess says the estimated shipping for the tanning system is $11 and they will take up to two weeks to arrive. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $193.95 package for $68.50, click here.

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Ya Living Scarves
Retail price: $89
Discount price: $25.99
Percent discount: 71% off!
Promo code: TODAYSCARF
(To purchase the scarves, click one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the promo code and click “Submit.” On the next page, click “More info.” Then select the desired color and click “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Ya Living scarves are hand-dyed and made of cotton. They include a woven gold band and hemmed finish and come in five colors, including summer gray, rose pink, sand, indigo blue and golden yellow.

The company says the estimated shipping for the product is $4.99 and they will arrive in between one and six weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $89 product for $25.99, click here.

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1-800 Flowers Mother’s Day Baskets and Bouquets
Retail price: $46.99-$119.99″
Discount price: $19.99 – $51.99
Percent discount: Up to 58% off!
TV Code: TODAYFLOWERS
(To purchase the 1-800 Flowers packages, click on one of the two links above. Enter the TV code in the box and click “Go.” Select the desired style on the next page. Then complete the checkout process.)

1-800 Flowers is offering three different packages at deep discounts for TODAY viewers.

Option 1: Cheryl’s Mother’s Day Cookies
Retail: $46.99
Deal: $19.99

This ultimate Mother’s Day treat includes 36 cookies of different varieties and shapes.

• Two novelty cookies: one butterfly and one ladybug
• 10 frosted cutout flowers: three pink, two orange, two yellow and three white
• Eight chocolate chip cookies
• Eight sugar cookies
• Eight oatmeal raisin cookies

Option 2: Red Hot Mama Bouquet
Retail: $61.99
Deal: $25.99

This best seller includes 24 red roses with a red hobnail vase. It’s shipped overnight to ensure the flowers are fresh.

Option 3: Fashionista Mom Bouquet with Votive and Chocolate
Retail: $119.99
Deal: $51.99

Treat moms everywhere with this exclusive tower of gifts. It includes:

• Chic hand-designed cube arrangement of roses and lilies
• Box of decadent chocolate truffles from Fannie May
• Ceramic high heel votive holder.

Products shipping or delivery range from $7.99 to $14.99, with additional surcharges possible for delivery on May 11 or 12, and should arrive in time for Mother’s Day. All sales are final. Restrictions exist for some shipping locations; please check the 1-800 Flowers site for more information. For more information and to buy the 1-800 Flowers packages at an up to 58 percent discount, click here.

Editor’s note at 10:45 a.m. ET: The 1-800 Flowers website is up and running again. Please use that method when ordering your package. 
Editor’s note at 10:15 a.m. ET: The 1-800 Flowers website is experiencing technical difficulties due to overwhelming demand. Please check back here soon for an update. You can also place your order by calling 1-800-716-4851 and mentioning the TODAY Jill’s Steals and Deals code.

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OMERTA Black Diamond and Pearl Necklace
Retail price: $295
Discount price: $59
Percent discount: 80% off!
Password: TODAYOMERTA
(To purchase the necklaces, click on one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the password and click “Enter.” Select the desired zodiac sign and click “Buy now.” Choose the desired chain metal and length and click “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

OMERTA by Anthony Dreyer uses a combination of black diamonds and white pearls to spell out words or phrases in Morse Code. They are offering your choice of all 12 zodiac signs. All necklaces are made in the U.S.

The company says the estimated shipping for the product is $4.95 and they will arrive within two weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $295 product for $59, click here.

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Semi-Precious Stone Home Collection
Retail price: $118
Discount price: $35.40
Percent discount: 70% off!
Password: TODAYSTONE
(To purchase the Semi-Precious Home Collection, click on one of the two links above. Enter the password on the landing page and click “Enter.” Select the desired scent on the next page and click “Buy now.” Read the product description carefully and click, “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Semi-Precious Stone Home Collection is offering a set of their most popular items in four scents: rose, amethyst, carnelian and wild agate.

The set includes:

• Phosphate-free liquid hand soap
• Hand-poured natural soy wax blend candle with approximately 50 hours of burn time
• Reed diffuser in a Chanel-style bottle

The company says the estimated shipping for the scents is $9.95 and they will arrive in three weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $118 product for $35.40, click here.

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Looking for information about previous Jill’s Steals and Deals broadcasts?
Find contact information for the retailers sorted by broadcast date at the links below:

Steals and Deals 4/24: 5 great gifts for Mother’s Day
Steals and Deals 4/10: Bras, bracelets, bags and more
Steals and Deals 3/27: Scarves, necklaces and more
Steals and Deals 3/13: Luggage, pillows and more
Steals and Deals 2/28: Philosophy set, San Antonio vacation, more
Steals and Deals 2/16: Shapewear, bracelets, throws and more

Looking for Steals and Deals info from previous weeks? Click here.

*Important Editor’s Note*
If you have any specific questions about the details, the products’ websites or inventory, please check with the retailers making the offers.  You can find their contact information on the sites — this is your best bet.

If you have a comment for TODAY, submit it here. Please note that TODAY staffers are unable to respond to every email.

For even more hot deals, be sure to check out Hip2Save.com or follow Hip2Save on Facebook!

Jill’s Steals and Deals contains great deals offered by retailers to TODAY viewers.

Please click on the following website links to be directed to the offers from the companies we featured, and be sure to read the details. Conditions and restrictions may apply.

If you have any specific questions about these details, please check with the retailers making the offers.

Neither Jill Martin, Hip2Save nor TODAY profits from these recommendations or from sales — we’re just looking to help you find the very best deals. The exclusive deals to TODAY viewers will last about 24 hours, but check the specific retailers’ sites for specific terms and conditions. Prices below do not include any fees or shipping or handling.

Follow TODAY on Facebook so you don’t miss any of these amazing offers!

Watch Jill Martin present these deals on TODAY:

Due to an overwhelming response, some of these products’ sites may experience technical difficulties. Each company is working on resolving their technical issues. Check back here for more information on other ways to purchase them.

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Luminess Spray Tanning System
Retail price: $193.95
Discount price: $68.50
Percent discount: 65% off!
Discount code: TanTODAY
(To purchase the tanning system, click on one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the promo code and click “Continue.” On the next page, scroll to the bottom and click “Continue.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Luminess Tan says their product is streak-free, odorless and “never orange.” It takes less than 30 minutes to apply and lasts up to 14 days, fading gradually after that.

This tanning set includes:

• The Luminess Tan Airbrush System and Stylus
• A starter DVD and guide
• Two 1.5-oz. bottles of Luminess Medium Tanning Solution
• One 1.5-oz. bottle of Luminess Deep Tanning Solution
• One 2-oz. tan extender cream

Luminess says the estimated shipping for the tanning system is $11 and they will take up to two weeks to arrive. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $193.95 package for $68.50, click here.

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Ya Living Scarves
Retail price: $89
Discount price: $25.99
Percent discount: 71% off!
Promo code: TODAYSCARF
(To purchase the scarves, click one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the promo code and click “Submit.” On the next page, click “More info.” Then select the desired color and click “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Ya Living scarves are hand-dyed and made of cotton. They include a woven gold band and hemmed finish and come in five colors, including summer gray, rose pink, sand, indigo blue and golden yellow.

The company says the estimated shipping for the product is $4.99 and they will arrive in between one and six weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $89 product for $25.99, click here.

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1-800 Flowers Mother’s Day Baskets and Bouquets
Retail price: $46.99-$119.99″
Discount price: $19.99 – $51.99
Percent discount: Up to 58% off!
TV Code: TODAYFLOWERS
(To purchase the 1-800 Flowers packages, click on one of the two links above. Enter the TV code in the box and click “Go.” Select the desired style on the next page. Then complete the checkout process.)

1-800 Flowers is offering three different packages at deep discounts for TODAY viewers.

Option 1: Cheryl’s Mother’s Day Cookies
Retail: $46.99
Deal: $19.99

This ultimate Mother’s Day treat includes 36 cookies of different varieties and shapes.

• Two novelty cookies: one butterfly and one ladybug
• 10 frosted cutout flowers: three pink, two orange, two yellow and three white
• Eight chocolate chip cookies
• Eight sugar cookies
• Eight oatmeal raisin cookies

Option 2: Red Hot Mama Bouquet
Retail: $61.99
Deal: $25.99

This best seller includes 24 red roses with a red hobnail vase. It’s shipped overnight to ensure the flowers are fresh.

Option 3: Fashionista Mom Bouquet with Votive and Chocolate
Retail: $119.99
Deal: $51.99

Treat moms everywhere with this exclusive tower of gifts. It includes:

• Chic hand-designed cube arrangement of roses and lilies
• Box of decadent chocolate truffles from Fannie May
• Ceramic high heel votive holder.

Products shipping or delivery range from $7.99 to $14.99, with additional surcharges possible for delivery on May 11 or 12, and should arrive in time for Mother’s Day. All sales are final. Restrictions exist for some shipping locations; please check the 1-800 Flowers site for more information. For more information and to buy the 1-800 Flowers packages at an up to 58 percent discount, click here.

Editor’s note at 10:45 a.m. ET: The 1-800 Flowers website is up and running again. Please use that method when ordering your package. 
Editor’s note at 10:15 a.m. ET: The 1-800 Flowers website is experiencing technical difficulties due to overwhelming demand. Please check back here soon for an update. You can also place your order by calling 1-800-716-4851 and mentioning the TODAY Jill’s Steals and Deals code.

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OMERTA Black Diamond and Pearl Necklace
Retail price: $295
Discount price: $59
Percent discount: 80% off!
Password: TODAYOMERTA
(To purchase the necklaces, click on one of the two links above. On the landing page, enter the password and click “Enter.” Select the desired zodiac sign and click “Buy now.” Choose the desired chain metal and length and click “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

OMERTA by Anthony Dreyer uses a combination of black diamonds and white pearls to spell out words or phrases in Morse Code. They are offering your choice of all 12 zodiac signs. All necklaces are made in the U.S.

The company says the estimated shipping for the product is $4.95 and they will arrive within two weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $295 product for $59, click here.

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Semi-Precious Stone Home Collection
Retail price: $118
Discount price: $35.40
Percent discount: 70% off!
Password: TODAYSTONE
(To purchase the Semi-Precious Home Collection, click on one of the two links above. Enter the password on the landing page and click “Enter.” Select the desired scent on the next page and click “Buy now.” Read the product description carefully and click, “Add to cart.” Then complete the checkout process.)

Semi-Precious Stone Home Collection is offering a set of their most popular items in four scents: rose, amethyst, carnelian and wild agate.

The set includes:

• Phosphate-free liquid hand soap
• Hand-poured natural soy wax blend candle with approximately 50 hours of burn time
• Reed diffuser in a Chanel-style bottle

The company says the estimated shipping for the scents is $9.95 and they will arrive in three weeks. All sales are final. For more information and to buy the $118 product for $35.40, click here.

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Looking for information about previous Jill’s Steals and Deals broadcasts?
Find contact information for the retailers sorted by broadcast date at the links below:

Steals and Deals 4/24: 5 great gifts for Mother’s Day
Steals and Deals 4/10: Bras, bracelets, bags and more
Steals and Deals 3/27: Scarves, necklaces and more
Steals and Deals 3/13: Luggage, pillows and more
Steals and Deals 2/28: Philosophy set, San Antonio vacation, more
Steals and Deals 2/16: Shapewear, bracelets, throws and more

Looking for Steals and Deals info from previous weeks? Click here.

*Important Editor’s Note*
If you have any specific questions about the details, the products’ websites or inventory, please check with the retailers making the offers.  You can find their contact information on the sites — this is your best bet.

If you have a comment for TODAY, submit it here. Please note that TODAY staffers are unable to respond to every email.

For even more hot deals, be sure to check out Hip2Save.com or follow Hip2Save on Facebook!