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  • SoftBank CEO: Downturn May Last Longer for Startups

    SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son had sobering words for startups, warning the economic downturn may last longer for them.

    Companies large and small are beginning to experience a reversal of fortunes amid the downturn. While larger companies are already feeling the pain, Son is warning it could be worse for startups — largely because of their founders.

    According to TechCrunch, Son says unicorn founders are placing too high a value on their companies, impeding their ability to secure funding.

    “Unicorn companies’ leaders still believe in their valuations and they wouldn’t accept that they may have to see their valuations [go] lower than they think,” he said, according to company’s official translator.

    “So until the multiple of listed companies is lower than those of unlisted companies, we should wait,” said Son, referring to a popular way investors assign value to firms. While saying the winter for public companies continues, he said startups may experience a “longer” downturn.

    Son also acknowledges the temptation to invest when the market is depressed but highlights the risks of doing so.

    “Now seems like the perfect time to invest when the stock market is down so much, and I have the urge to do so, but if I act on it, we could suffer a blow that would be irreversible, and that is unacceptable,” he added.

  • 4 Common Merger and Acquisition Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are an excellent way to increase your market share, access industry-leading talent, explore new markets, reduce costs and increase profits, get favorable taxes, diversify your investment, corner future value, and more. However, studies suggest that their failure rate ranges between 70% and 90%. Knowing how to choose targets, if and how to integrate them, and how much to pay for them can drastically help increase your success odds.

    Familiarizing yourself with the common M&A errors, how they can impact your business, and what you can do to evade them can boost success chances. This article outlines four common M&A mistakes and how to avoid them.

    Not performing detailed due diligence

    Detailed due diligence is a vital, comprehensive inquiry or investigation into the affairs of the target company you intend to acquire or merge. The due diligence investigation helps you identify, measure, and mitigate the liabilities and risks of acquisitions and mergers while assessing the target company’s value.

    Due diligence depends on the transaction nature and can be legal, financial, property, information technology, or environmental. Inadequate due diligence may result in legal consequences like inheriting litigation proceedings against the target company or financial issues, including high debts and significant liability amounts.

    Failing to plan your M&A

    As a seller or buyer, your ultimate goal is selling or buying a business. Successfully achieving this goal can be difficult and may fail without a proper plan. A comprehensive and easy-to-execute strategy is a must-have to attain your objective successfully. In your M&A plan, explain why you’re considering a merger or acquisition, how you intend to finance it, who your advisory team will be, your ROI model, and the deal size you’re looking for.

    Valuation mistakes

    Business valuation involves determining the target company’s actual worth or fair value. Some common challenges in valuing a merger or acquisition include miscalculating the target company’s financial data, missing critical details during due diligence, misreading the target’s buy-side competition, and failing to evaluate the management team’s quality properly.

    Lack of proper financial analysis means it’ll be challenging to quantify the deal’s prospective shareholder value. To overcome this issue, invest in an independent valuation by third-party valuation professionals because they don’t have a conflict of interests.

    Not involving the right experts

    Mergers and acquisitions aren’t DIY projects. Failure to involve the right professionals in the process sets you up for failure. Business valuation experts will help determine your company’s worth or target to ensure you don’t settle for too little or overpay. Accountants with M&A experience will help you with financial due diligence to ensure you’re appropriately positioned for the deal and advise you on transaction structuring to get the most out of it.

    M&A legal experts will handle the negotiation’s legal aspects while guiding you through the legal due diligence process. Your M&A team should include investment bankers, business brokers, and financial advisors. This will help streamline the merger and acquisition process while enhancing your success rate.

    Endnote

    When mergers and acquisitions aren’t done right, they will fail. Consider avoiding these common M&A mistakes and what you can do to avoid them.

  • Truckers Blockade California Seaport to Protest Anti-Gig Law

    Truckers have blockaded the eighth-busiest container seaport, crippling imports and exports in protest of California’s anti-gig law.

    According to Reuters, some 2,100 trucks are blocking the Port of Oakland terminal gates to protest the AB5 law. The blockade is choking the movement of beef, pork, green coffee, electronics, construction materials, dairy products, nuts, and more.

    “Due to the strike, we have not been able to move cargoes from the port,” the director of one of the largest coffee importers in the United States told Reuters.

    At the heart of the issue is California’s attempt to outlaw gig workers, similar to the measure Congress has tried to pass. The state passed a law making it nearly impossible for employers to classify workers as contractors. Lawmakers touted the bill as something that would protect workers and prevent employers from taking advantage of them, but as the trucker blockade demonstrates, not all gig workers are in favor of the law.

    Many contract truckers would have to pay rental fees and other equipment costs if they were classified as employees, costs that are currently covered by the companies that contract them.

    “AB5 would shut me down. I don’t have the resources to pay that kind of money,” said Carlos Flores, 42, adding that the new rental fees would cost him an additional $30,000 per month under AB5.

    “I’ve invested too much into my business to go to a company and work for hourly wages,” he said.

    The truckers are hoping Governor Newsom exempts them from the law, much like the exemption Uber and Lyft secured. Both companies were on the verge of having to reclassify their drivers as employees when they successfully managed to get Proposition 22 passed, allowing them to continue operating as they always have.

    Should the truckers fail to secure an exemption, the future looks bleak for their prospects of remaining independent. Uber and Lyft lost in court before securing their own exemption, and the US Supreme Court declined to hear the truckers’ case.

  • T-Mobile Teams Up With Apple to Introduce Wireless Plan for Small Businesses

    T-Mobile Teams Up With Apple to Introduce Wireless Plan for Small Businesses

    T-Mobile and Apple are joining forces to offer a wireless plan that combines T-Mobile’s 5G and Apple’s Business Essentials.

    T-Mobile consistently wins recognition for its 5G network, far outpacing both Verizon and AT&T. The company has increasingly unveiled a number of services and plans aimed at businesses, but its latest joint venture with Apple may be its most ambitious yet.

    The two companies are teaming up to provide a plan exclusively for small businesses. The plan will include unlimited talk, text, and premium smartphone data, as well as 200GB of high-speed hotspot data per month, and cost just $50 per month, for six lines or more. The plans will also include Apple Business Essentials with AppleCare+ for Business Essentials. Each new line is also eligible for a new iPhone 13.

    “Teaming up with Apple is just one more way we can support small businesses as they continue to be the source of countless jobs and innovations across America,” said Callie Field, President, T-Mobile Business Group. “We’re always looking for ways to provide more value to our customers and working with Apple gives us the opportunity to tackle a whole new pain point for small businesses — IT management.”

    “Apple is committed to helping small businesses thrive, and we’re proud of the longstanding relationships we’ve built with this community,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Enterprise Product Marketing. “Apple Business Essentials helps small businesses manage the entire lifecycle of their Apple products — from device management and storage, to support and repairs — so they can focus on running and growing their business. The new Business Unlimited Ultimate+ for iPhone plan from T-Mobile will combine Business Essentials with blazing fast 5G service, a powerful new iPhone 13, and more — making IT even easier for small businesses, so they can do their best work.”

  • How To Make The Instagram Algorithm Work For You

    How To Make The Instagram Algorithm Work For You

    The Instagram Algorithm is a mysterious and complex concept for many business leaders. It’s something companies know they need to master to thrive online, but like many social media rulesets, the algorithm isn’t always the easiest concept to grasp.

    Instagram’s algorithm dictates how content should be displayed on the platform, and which users are served which posts. This means if you want to connect with the 1 billion monthly users on Instagram, you need to know how to navigate the algorithm.

    In 2022, Instagram requires every user to think carefully about their use of captions, hashtags, and even certain content types for the best chance of ranking. Here’s what you need to know about the Instagram algorithm, and how you can master it.

    How The Instagram Algorithm Works

    Like most social media channels, Instagram regularly updates its algorithm to suit new customer trends, and industry expectations. This means if you want to boost your following, you may need to regularly change your strategy, based on the new rules.

    One point to note is Instagram introduced a new option for users to arrange their feed chronologically in 2022. This means if your customers choose the chronological ranking option, or do most of their browsing through the “curated” lists of posts from their favorite accounts, your algorithmic efforts might not have an impact on their newsfeed.

    The vast majority of Instagram users still view the default feed, however. This feed is organized according to the algorithm set by Instagram to boost the quality of the content users see on the sight. According to Instagram’s CEO, Adam Mosseri, the algorithm provides an “engaging” browsing experience by determining:

    ·         Which posts appear first on the news feed

    ·         Which Reels, Stories, and Live videos appear at the top of the feed

    ·         Which posts appear in the Instagram “Explore” section.

    The Instagram Algorithm & Feed Posts

    When it comes to using Instagram for small business growth, one of the first environments you’ll explore is the “Feed.”  This is the space where people in your target audience search for new content.

    The feed algorithm sorts through the content of accounts users already follow, to determine their likelihood of interacting with posts based on:

    ·         Relationship data: Instagram tracks the number of times a user interacts with another poster through comments, views, and likes to predict a potential relationship.

    ·         Post details: The more likes a post gets, whether it’s been tagged with a specific location, and how long it is (in terms of video content) all matter to the Instagram algorithm. The rules also organize content based on recency, so newer posts appear first.

    ·         Activity: Instagram tries to predict what customers will want to see by looking at the kind of content they usually interact with on the platform.

    To ensure users always get a quality experience, Instagram also allows authenticators to mark content as “false” or misleading and place it further down on the news feed.

    The Instagram Algorithm & Stories

    70% of all Instagram users view Stories on a daily basis.

    For brands, Stories offer a quick and convenient way to share information about their company, upcoming promotions, and events. For customers, these snippets of content are an excellent way to get a behind-the-scenes look at a business.

    The Instagram Algorithm for Stories works similarly to the standard news feed. This means the accounts users interact with most appear at the top of their feed.

    Notably, the short-lived nature of Stories posts also means timeliness can be more important to ranking here. The more recent the story when your user appears online, the more likely it is to grab their attention and boost your engagement.

    The Instagram Algorithm & Reels

    Reels are among the more recent additions to Instagram, ideal for fast-paced entertainment common in the TikTok landscape. Reels are prioritized by the Instagram algorithm based on what it thinks a user wants to watch. The algorithm will track things like engagement rates, saves, taps on a user’s profile, view completion rate, and re-watches.

    To boost your impact on the “Reels” page, Instagram recommends using inspirational content brimming with creative effects like filters and text.

    For the most part, however, the algorithm takes the popularity of the poster and the data of the post (including any added music) into account, alongside the history of the user.

    The Instagram Algorithm & The “Explore” Tab

    The Explore tab on Instagram is where users find content from users they haven’t encountered before. It’s a great way to connect with users who are using the Chronological feed for their main browsing efforts. On the Explore page, previous relationships with a user don’t apply.

    Instead, Instagram looks at the posts users have interacted with in the past to determine what they might want to see. The popularity of a post (its comments and likes), the kind of content a user has saved or liked in the past, and even the poster information can all make a difference.

    The algorithm also looks at things like keywords, locations, and hashtags in each post, and how they connect to the content other viewers have interacted with in the past.

    How To Make The Instagram Algorithm Work For You

    1.  Post More Instagram Stories

    Instagram Stories are some of the most valuable tools on Instagram. 500 million users interact with Stories every day, and many appreciate the authentic and raw content these posts provide.

    However, because Instagram Stories are only available for a short period of time, you’ll need to make sure you’re posting them frequently if you want to connect with your audience. Posting regular Stories will allow you to carve a space for yourself in the Stories tab, and boost engagement through various filters and features.

    When posting Instagram Stories, remember to:

    ·         Experiment with features: Stickers, polls, and sliders are all excellent ways to make your Stories more engaging and interactive. They can also be a good way to collect information about your target audience and their preferences.

    ·         Know your posting times: Know when your customers are most likely to be online so you can post your Stories and reach as many people as possible before they disappear.

    ·         Save highlights: You can save highlights from your Story to your Instagram profile to enhance your page. Highlights are a great way to make your profile appear more complete, and they give customers a reason to stick around and check out more of your posts.

    2.  Post Reels More Often

    Reels are gaining a lot of attention on Instagram today, particularly among younger users who already love fast-paced videos on TikTok. Instagram Reels can generate more engagement than your standard Instagram video, and they’re easier to consume for most customers.

    What’s more, because Reels are expected to be a little less polished and a lot shorter than standard feed videos, they’re much easier to create. Posting regular Reels gives you a chance to stand out on a dedicated portion of the Instagram app, which boosts your brand reach.

    You can experiment with different music and hashtags to reach your audience and use your Reels to provide users with valuable information or collect insights from your audience. For instance, @MeUndies and @LivBolish used Reels to ask users to pick their favorite product from a lineup.

    3.  Post At The Right Times

    While timing is particularly important for your Instagram Stories, it’s also crucial throughout the rest of the platform, too. You need to make sure you’re connecting with your audience when they’re most likely to be online, because the Instagram algorithm prioritizes “recency.”

    Finding out the right time for posting on Instagram can be complex. Different reports online offer different suggestions. For instance, Sprout Social say the best time for engagement is between 11am and 2pm on a Tuesday.

    While you can use online reports as a launching point for your brand, you’ll get more accurate insights by diving into your Instagram analytics. The “Insights” page on your business account will tell you when your followers are most active.

    Once you know when your customers are around, it’s worth using a scheduling tool to ensure you’re publishing your content at the right time, even if your social media team isn’t available.

    4.  Go Hashtag Heavy

    Hashtags are one of the most valuable tools in any Instagram strategy. If you want to master the Instagram algorithm, learning how to boost your content’s visibility with hashtags is a good start. Not only do these tools give more context to your post, but they’re fantastic for helping people to find your content when searching for relevant terms.

  • 3 Digital Marketing Methods Every Business Needs

    3 Digital Marketing Methods Every Business Needs

    As a business owner in the 21st century, it’s important to take advantage of the tools and technology available when engaging with your customer base. Not only will this help you reach wider audiences and maximize your revenue,  but it will also help you to stay competitive and current.

    One of the great things about digital marketing is it can be done from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and a laptop. Check out these options for travel laptops.

    As marketing methods such as print advertising and direct mail have begun to be phased out and a greater number of people consume content online a traditional approach alone will no longer cut it. If you are reluctant to embrace the digital age, or don’t know where to begin, this article has outlined three digital marketing strategies to help you connect with your customers and capture the attention of new ones.

    Content Marketing

    Content marketing is a type of marketing strategy that focuses on creating and sharing valuable, relevant  and consistent material in order to stimulate interest and attract and retain customers. By distributing high-quality material such as blogs, emails, videos, podcasts, articles and eBooks, a business can engage with its customer base while indirectly generating interest for its brand.

    Well-written content which is relevant and informative can reveal more to your customers about your business, its values and ethos as well as the products and services you offer. Content marketing can even help you present yourself as an authority in your field.

    Coca-Cola’s ‘Share a Coke’ campaign is a good example of content marketing that used personalization to increase customer engagement. By establishing stronger relationships with your potential customer base you can also help build brand awareness and loyalty.

    SEO

    Search engine optimization (SEO) is a process of improving your website to increase the quality and quantity of traffic to it. As a result, it will rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs). As your business becomes more visible online, you will improve your chances of attracting more customers and increasing your revenue. 

    As well as more potential clicks to your webpage, SEO is also beneficial when it comes to establishing the credibility of your business, as sites that rank more highly on SERPs are considered to be of higher quality and seen as more trustworthy than those that rank lower. Strategies to boost SEO include keyword optimization, building backlinks and removal of zombie pages. 

    Email Marketing 

    By building a relationship with your email subscribers through relevant and personalized content, you have a low cost way to deliver targeted messages to an already engaged audience. This is also advantageous for gauging feedback on ways to improve your service, better meet customer needs and develop new products.

    Email marketing can also help you to nurture leads by sending personalized messages in set intervals designed to convert readers into paying customers.

    By implementing the digital marketing methods mentioned in this article you can help your business reach a wider audience while retaining and nurturing the valuable customer base you already have.

  • Facebook Is Testing Multiple Profiles per Account

    Facebook Is Testing Multiple Profiles per Account

    In its quest to remain relevant in the face of newer, hipper rivals, Facebook is testing the ability to have multiple profiles per account.

    Facebook may be the 800-pound gorilla in the social media space, but it is increasingly pressured by newer rivals that are capturing the younger market. According to BGR, Facebook is testing the ability to have up to five separate profiles per account.

    The idea behind the feature is to give users an easy way to fine-tune who they share information with. For example, a user could have a work profile for colleagues but share more intimate information with their friends or family profile.

    The new feature will not impact Facebook’s user statistics, as the company will only count accounts, not profiles. Nonetheless, fine-tuning the data people share on Facebook and with whom they share it seems like a wonderful way for Facebook to learn more about its users and a terrible idea for end-user privacy.

  • National Retail Federation CEO: This Is A Great Time For Innovation

    National Retail Federation CEO: This Is A Great Time For Innovation

    This is a great time for innovation,” says National Retail Federation CEO Matthew Shay. “There’s been a great increase in efficiency in the supply chain. Those gains are not going to be given back. Customers are going to continue to expect certain kinds of delivery and fulfillment opportunities that have been rolled out by retailers this year. They won’t give that up. They are going to want the convenience and they are going to expect to be able to maintain that in the future.”

    Matthew Shay, President and CEO of the National Retail Federation, says that the pandemic has made this a great time for innovation by retailers:

    This Is A Great Time For Innovation.

    Just look back a decade ago and the companies that were created in the midst of the great recession in 2008, 2009, and 2010. We saw a lot of new IPOs. This is a great time for innovation. Some of the predictions this year, for example, about the number of stores that would close or bankruptcies that we would see just haven’t materialized. Part of that is because consumers have been relatively healthy and part of that is because on a net basis we’ve seen new businesses opening to offset the closing. There’s an enormous amount of innovation taking place.

    On the issue of returns, there’s a big company located right here in Washington, D.C., Optoro, a big partner for many retailers helping them process returns efficiently. I’ve talked to senior executives at UPS today about shipping issues and there is a lot of innovation taking place. They are working very diligently and have a great delivery record so far. We are looking forward to getting all those gifts to American families. The biggest gift of all, of course, will be some additional pandemic relief.

    A Lot Of This Is Going To Be A Permanent Change

    The issue is how much of this consumer behavior has changed permanently and fundamentally? How much of us as Americans go back to our old behaviors? That’s going to play itself out. Certainly, a lot of this is going to be a permanent change. People will do more as we saw across all demographic groups, regardless of age, this entire year doing much more online. Some of that will remain sticky.

    There’s been a great increase in efficiency in the supply chain. Those gains are not going to be given back. Customers are going to continue to expect certain kinds of delivery and fulfillment opportunities that have been rolled out by retailers this year. They won’t give that up. They are going to want the convenience and they are going to expect to be able to maintain that in the future.

    With those kinds of innovations and that kind of resilience in the system against the backdrop of a year next year that could be extremely bullish if we get the vaccine rolled out, as we all believe it will be. I talked to a senior executive of one of the major pharmaceutical companies last week and they said early April or the end of May everyone that wants it will get it. We could be set up for a really big comeback for consumers next year.

    National Retail Federation CEO Matthew Shay: This Is A Great Time For Innovation

  • A Guide to Sole Proprietor Tax Write-Offs

    Sole proprietors simply need a business license to launch their ventures. As a sole proprietorship, you are what’s known in the tax world as a “pass-through entity.” Your company is not a separate entity, and any profits or losses will be passed onto your taxes.

    You’ll use Form 1040 for your personal income, such as if you take a salary and Schedule C to report your business’s numbers.

    With 70% of America’s businesses being sole proprietorships, understanding tax write-offs can save you thousands of dollars.

    How the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Impacts Your Taxes

    The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), passed under the Trump administration, was a game changer regarding how taxes work for these types of businesses.

    Under the act, some businesses may be able to deduct 20% of their business income. However, not everyone is eligible for this option. It depends on several factors, such as total business income, business type, and the size of your taxable income.

    You can write off most business expenses, but not all of them. You must discuss the issue with a tax professional to ensure that you fully comply with the latest regulations.

    What You Can and Can’t Write Off

    Various fees and expenses will be eligible for write-offs. It’s one of the advantages of running a small business. However, you need to be aware of how much you can write off and some of the things that would not allow you to take a tax deduction.

    Let’s look at what you can and cannot write off.

    Office Space

    A designated home office, a storefront, or an industrial facility can all be deducted because you’re wholly using it as a space for doing business. Rental costs are always included, but you can even deduct expenses like office stationery and dĂ©cor.

    Be especially careful when taking a home office deduction. According to the latest IRS guidance, the area must be strictly used for work purposes. In other words, you cannot deduct your entire home rent just because you use your kitchen counter to answer emails occasionally.

    Insurance Premiums

    Any insurance policies you hold for your business are eligible for write-offs on their premiums. It includes your business liability and business continuation insurance policies. Any industry-specific policies, such as malpractice insurance, would also fall under this definition for sole proprietors.

    Like other deductions, be aware that the expenses cannot be combined with your personal needs. Only your business and its employees may take advantage of the insurance policies you’re making deductions for.

    Transportation Costs

    You can also reclaim mileage costs for client meetings, voluntary commitments, and any other business trips you need to take. The standard mileage deduction for business use and charitable use changes every year, so make sure you calculate the current rate.

    You may also avoid taking the standard mileage rate and calculate the actual cost of using your vehicle, but the mileage rate is far easier to calculate.

    Note that you must keep accurate documentation on mileage used. Also, you cannot deduct mileage for any trips that are either part of your usual commute or for personal trips.

    Business Travel

    Beyond trips you need to make around your local community, you can also claim for long-distance trips. For example, if you need to fly to another city to meet a client or monitor a project, you can recoup the costs of hotel stays, food, and transport.

    You can only deduct costs for business days, so if you extend the weekend to incorporate a trip with your spouse, this has to come out of your own pocket.

    Professional Development

    Not many people know that they can also claim professional development costs. If you take a course to learn a new skill, that’s a deductible expense. The only rule is it must be relevant to your current business. Learning a new skill to embark upon a new career must come out of your own pocket.

    There are no limitations on the types of professional development avenues you can deduct for. Whether it’s books, webinars, or formal online classes, you can claim it. The IRS even allows you to deduct subscription fees to industry-relevant newsletters.

    Business Expansion Costs

    The above deductions pertain to the day-to-day costs of doing business, but any investment you make into expanding your business will make up your biggest deductions of the year.

    Whether purchasing a more extensive facility, hiring new employees, or purchasing equipment, they’re all deductible in full.

    Tech Costs

    As a small business owner, the chances are you spend money on the tech side of your business every year. If you have a website and pay for hosting, that’s deductible. You may also spend money on social media ads or pay a social media consultant to do it for you. These costs are deductible in full.

    Cloud storage and computing costs also fall under the banner of tax-deductible expenses. Just remember that you must only use these functions for business use.

    Always Contact a Tax Professional

    There are two reasons to consult a tax professional when the time comes to file. Firstly, you need to ensure that you’re taking every deduction you’re entitled to. They can comb through your current accounts and figure out if you’re leaving money on the table.

    Furthermore, the rules on tax deductions are not always straightforward. The IRS is largely ambiguous on when an expense is claimable and when it may raise eyebrows. Talking to a professional ensures you can explain a deduction if you’re unlikely enough to get audited.

    Conclusion

    Tax write-offs free up your cash flow and ensure that you keep more of your money come tax filing season. With so many small businesses struggling to turn a profit, knowing which deductions you’re entitled to could be the difference between keeping your head above water or falling behind.

    Invest in the services of a tax professional who can figure out what you’re entitled to deduct and remain tax compliant. Remember, the costs of a tax professional are also fully deductible!

    Have you started thinking about your tax affairs yet?

  • How HubSpot is Using Surround Sound Marketing Strategy to Drive Sales

    How HubSpot is Using Surround Sound Marketing Strategy to Drive Sales

    “There is a very smart individual at HubSpot named Alex Birkett based out of Austin, Texas,” says Scott Tousley of HubSpot. “He is working on this concept that is really starting to take off called Surround Sound Strategy. Essentially what that means is that it runs with the notion that marketers are selfish. All we care about is how do we drive more traffic to our website.”

    Scott Tousley, Senior Team Lead of User Acquisition for all products at HubSpot, was recently interviewed on the B2B Growth Podcast by David Kelly, General Manager at Sumo Dojo. Tousley discusses how HubSpot is using Surround Sound Marketing Strategy to drive leads and sales:

    Surround Sound Marketing Strategy Starting to Take Off

    There is a very smart individual at HubSpot named Alex Birkett based out of Austin, Texas. He is working on this concept that is really starting to take off called Surround Sound Strategy. Essentially what that means is that it runs with the notion that marketers are selfish. All we care about is how do we drive more traffic to our website. I don’t care where it comes from. Whether it comes from search or social or referral traffic or email, it doesn’t matter. You’re always looking at how do I get more traffic to my website? The reality is that when we are trying to buy something you don’t go to one website. You go to multiple different websites when you are trying to make a purchasing decision.

    For example, I’m in South Lake Tahoe right now. One search I just did recently was “best bars in South Lake Tahoe.” I wanted to see a list and I wanted to see some reviews from a couple of different websites. I also like to surf, so let’s say I’m in the market for a new shortboard. So I search for “best shortboards 2019.” First, I’ll read a listicle, then I will go back to Google and I will click on the next list. Then I will go back again and click on the next list. Then I will start to narrow my decision based on seeing the same thing over and over. Once I narrow it down I will do a versus search such as “lost puddle jumper” vs. “channel islands average joe.” I’ve narrowed my decision at that point.

    We Want To Be At All Stages of the Purchasing Decision

    What we are trying to do at HubSpot right now is figure out how to be everywhere. We want to be at all stages of that purchasing decision when people are searching for “what is the best blank that exists today.” Well, there are a ton of lists that are out there and a ton of review sites and HubSpot’s B2B software (has to be there). There are a lot of review sites just dominating search engines right now like Capterra, G2 Crowd, and Software Advice. A lot of those are pay to play. You have got to pay to get listed on what appears when you land via search. Most of them are.

    But listicles are free. Not only are they free to get added to, but they are free to create. That’s one of the biggest things we are working on right now. How do we change our mindset from being so obsessed at driving traffic to our website? How do we make sure that HubSpot’s brand is everywhere when you are doing your product research and you are on many different websites? We actually sometimes prefer that we drive traffic to multiple different websites where we are listed versus just to our own. It’s good for social grouping.

    Listen to the full interview with HubSpot’s Scott Tousley.

  • Report: American Innovation and Choice Online Act Will Drive Inflation

    Report: American Innovation and Choice Online Act Will Drive Inflation

    A new report by Committee to Unleash Prosperity economists says an antitrust bill making its way through Congress “will make inflation worse.”

    The American Innovation and Choice Online Act is a piece of antitrust legislation introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar, Chuck Grassley, and John Kennedy. The bill’s aim is to reduce the influence of Big Tech and help level the playing field for smaller companies, as well as better serve consumers. According to the report by Dr. Arthur B. Laffer and John Barrington Burke, the bill will actually make things worse for consumers by increasing inflation.

    “Allegations of monopolistic pricing behavior in the technology sector are misplaced,” the authors write. “We show that many of the technology companies that would be affected by the antitrust bills before Congress have driven dramatic reductions in prices paid by consumers. The Klobuchar bill could add dramatically to the prices that consumers pay for routine tech services from package deliveries, to cell phones, to search engine services.”

    The report makes the case that Big Tech firms are actually not monopolies, with the tech industry being less concentrated than the average US industry. The report also argues that the antitrust legislation before Congress would significantly weaken US tech innovation and cripple the digital economy’s penchant for lowering prices.

    This latest report joins a growing chorus of criticism of the American Innovation and Choice Online Act bill. The Independent Women’s Voice said the “bill is not about protecting competition in America, but expanding regulatory control over a handful of large tech corporations, even if to the detriment of consumers.”

    Similarly, Amazon has said the bill would severely impact its Amazon Prime service, even going so far as to say the bill primarily targeted the e-commerce giant.

    “Oddly, and inappropriately, this legislation is targeted at only one U.S. retailer—Amazon,” the company said.

    It remains to be seen if the bill will be passed and signed into law. While there is nearly unprecedented bipartisan support for antitrust legislation, the voices against the bill are certainly stacking up.

  • How You Can Create An Effective Digital PR Plan

    How You Can Create An Effective Digital PR Plan

    Once upon a time, it was enough to get any mention at all of your business in the media. With traditional PR, marketers were looking for mentions in relevant print publications, on television, radio, and anywhere else they could get coverage for their brand.

    While that’s still true today, with the advent of the internet, marketers need to add digital PR to their marketing mix.

    You need to know what’s being said about your brand online, but more than that, you need to be able to shape what’s said.

    Before you can do that, however, you need to have a plan.

    1) What are your objectives?

    Before you start creating any content, you need to decide on your objectives. You can’t meet your goals unless you know what they are.

    With digital PR, you might be aiming to build your brand recognition. You might want to build trust and be seen as an expert in your field. Or your ideal outcome might be lead generation.

    Whatever your objectives are, write them down. This will help to keep your plan on track. Every aspect of your plan should be targeted at achieving your objectives. If it doesn’t, it shouldn’t be in there.

    2) Know your audience

    As well as creating buyer personas and doing customer research, you’ll also need to use social listening. You can use your google calendar or one of your other calendars to set up a schedule to read social posts from your target audience. This must be something that you make yourself do consistently so it’s important to schedule this time. 

    Dig deep into who your customers are, their demographics, what they want, and what their pain points are. Without clear buyer personas, it’s hard to create the right content that will create the impression you want. And it’s nigh on impossible to reach your objectives.

    With social listening, you can not only see who your customers are, but you can listen, practically in real-time, to what they’re saying. You’ll find out about what they like and dislike about your brand, and what they think you should be doing. You’ll hear the negative with the positive, but it’s all good information.

    3) Understand your target media

    Just as you need to understand your audience, you need to understand where you’re posting content and what they want to see. You can’t ignore submission guidelines, the tone of the publication, and what sort of content they want.

    Do a deep dive into every website, podcast, and publication you want to reach, before you approach them.

    4) Create a plan for your PR

    Take what you’ve learned above and set out a plan for your digital PR. Work out when you’re going to target particular publications, how you’re going to approach them, and what you’re going to say.

    Create a content calendar for at least three months ahead so that you’re not starting every day wondering what you’re going to create.

    5) Create great content

    Go to town on your content and create value for the publications you’re targeting. Of course, it’s about you to an extent, but it’s also about what they want and what their audience wants. You can start a webinar series that is followed up with great blog content that journalists can source. This will increase your chances of getting PR pickup when you pitch writers. 

    The idea is to create a long-term relationship where you are known for providing expertise and value.

    6) Measure your results

    Keep returning to your objectives and set KPIs to ensure you’re doing what you set out to do. Don’t get off track and keep measuring and ensuring success.

    Finally, keep building on your success. Digital PR isn’t a one-and-done effort. You’ll spend a lot of time building your reputation and your brand.

    But all that effort will be worth it when your name’s in lights and your online reputation is rock solid.

  • Microsoft Advertising Can Now Import Facebook Ads

    Microsoft Advertising Can Now Import Facebook Ads

    Microsoft has announced its Advertising platform can now import Facebook Ads.

    Many companies live or die by their online advertising. Especially in the wake of the pandemic, many small businesses have increasingly shifted to online sales, making their advertising more important than ever.

    For companies looking to expand their advertising reach, recreating a successful campaign on another platform can be a time-consuming proposition. Microsoft is hoping to make it easier, releasing Facebook Import to help companies import their Facebook ad campaigns into the Microsoft Audience Network.

    Are you new to audience campaigns, or looking to expand your existing presence on the Microsoft Audience Network? Using Facebook Import, it’s now easier than ever to get audience campaigns up and running by importing from Facebook Ads. Now rolling out to all advertisers in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France and Germany, this new feature is designed to save you time and maximize ROI by seamlessly bringing over your campaigns from the Facebook Audience Network into the Microsoft Audience Network. Facebook Import can be used as a standalone tool, as well as a powerful complement to any existing Google Import strategy.

    The new feature can be accessed via the Import menu in the Microsoft Advertising dashboard.

  • What is Government Contract Financing?

    As a small business owner, you want to grow. You want to expand your business to hire more employees, help more people, and make more money.

    But you can’t just go into debt to expand your business, right? What if there is a way to grow your business without incurring debt?

    Well, there is. It’s called government contract financing, one of the most popular ways to grow your business without going into debt.

    In this post, we explain government contract financing, the types, how it can help you grow your business, the benefits, and how it works.

    What is Government Contract Financing?

    Government contract financing, also known as government contract factoring or invoice financing, is money provided to small businesses by financing companies (factors). These funds allow them to purchase needed goods and services from vendors, contractors, or manufacturers to fulfill government contracts. 

    Small business owners have several options for financing government contracts. These include:  

    • Invoice factoring
    • Bridge loans
    • Asset-based loans
    • Business term loans
    • SBA loans
    • Equipment financing
    • Mobilization funding

    Invoice financing companies know that the government is a reliable debtor, so they are willing to provide small businesses with funds to buy needed goods and services to meet government contracts. 

    You might be eligible for government contract financing if you operate a socially-responsible small business with a solid track record of delivering value to government agencies.

    Benefits of Government Contract Financing

    The benefits of government contract financing include:   

    Sufficient Cash Flow 

    Many small businesses struggle to stay afloat because of a shortage of cash. With government contract financing, you get the money you need upfront to pay for vendors, contractors, or manufacturers to meet government contracts.   

    Business Growth / Expansion 

    You can grow your business to meet and fulfill government contracts with government contract financing. Purchasing needed goods and services for your business will allow you to meet government contracts faster.  

    Debt-Free Finances  

    Unlike traditional loans, government contract financing does not require you to go into debt to expand your business. You access the cash you need when you need it without incurring debt.  

    How Does Government Contract Financing Work? 

    Once you’ve qualified for invoice financing, you sell your unpaid invoices to a finance company at a discount in exchange for immediate cash. 

    The factor pays up to 90 percent of the invoice amount. Now, you can use that cash to purchase needed goods and services from vendors, contractors, or manufacturers to fulfill government contracts. 

    The government pays the factor when the invoice is due – for instance, in 30 or 60 days.

    The factor distributes the balance of the invoice to the contractor after deducting a fee (generally 1-2%)

    When Is the Best Time to Apply for Government Contract Financing? 

    There is a common misconception that you should only apply for government contract financing after winning the bid. 

    We recommend that you apply before the contract is awarded. You can finance your business easier with positive relationships with financial companies.

    Final Thoughts

    Giving small businesses government contracts is necessary to keep the economy afloat. It allows them to provide more jobs and opportunities to their local communities. 

    Governments need reliable suppliers to provide goods and services to meet government contracts. You can be one of those dependable suppliers.  But how can you make that happen? Apply for government contract financing to expand your business and fulfill government contracts.

  • How To Get PR For Your Tech Startup

    How To Get PR For Your Tech Startup

    PR is the most cost-effective strategy for an early-stage tech startup.

    Press placements have 6x the visibility and 3x the credibility of an advertisement of the same size or length.

    Hence, PR means more brand awareness and new customers.

    The significance of PR cannot be underestimated, especially when the tech industry is witnessing fierce competition post-pandemic and showing exponential growth with an estimated CAGR of 5% through 2024.

    However, getting PR for a startup tech company is challenging if you are not aware of the strategies to impress editors.

    This article will help you understand what PR is, the advantages of PR, and share some of the best tips to acquire great PR for your startup.

    Let’s begin!

    What is PR?

    PR stands for public relations which is the strategic communication by the company to the public to educate the consumers about new product launches or features.

    PR has the ability to build your brand’s credibility that your consumers can trust because it is also driven by factual reviews and opinions by third-party.

    Why PR Is Essential For Startups?

    Here are some solid reasons why PR is essential for startups:

    1- Increases Credibility

    PR has the ability to build your brand’s credibility that your consumers can trust because it is driven by factual reviews and opinions by third-party. Therefore, PR content are considered unbiased and genuine.

    Also, when a third-party writes or speaks positively about your brand, they endorse your company’s expertise and leadership, which makes content more valuable.

    As a result, consumers show interest in engaging with such content and get into conversation, which further helps the brand boost their credibility.

    2- Positions Your Brand as a Category Leader

    PR content pieces demonstrate your expertise and specialization in the form of news, which adds unique touch and value to your content.

    They explain how you are different from the rest of your competitors in the market and why someone should choose your company.

    It helps separate your company from your competitors in a positive way and position your brand self as an expert in your field.

    3- Boosts Lead Generation

    Well-planned PR strategies comprise the right messages and convincing call-to-action.

    They work together to make your brand more discoverable and attract more leads while developing your company’s credibility and reputation in the market.

    4- Attracts Investors

    PR can also overcome the most challenging part of funding a startup.

    A masterful PR campaign ensures you get plenty of buzz and get your company introduced to potential investors.

    PR content creators also leverage the power of your past investors to encourage new investors to support your company.

    Since PR is an effective means of getting publicity, it helps you to attract the attention of investors looking for the next promising startup to back.

    Tips To Acquire PR For Your Startup

    Here are some proven tips you can use to acquire PR for your startup:

    1- Find Journalists Who Cover Your Niche

    Look for journalists who write for businesses in your industry.

    Experienced and niche-expert journalists will provide you with press content that is industry-specialized and explain your business well. Plus, they will get you faster press coverage through the right channels.

    2- Pitch A Story

    Instead of simply asking a journalist to write about your business, pitch a story.

    Stories catch attention and create an emotional connection. Also, PR is mostly about a story. Therefore, it is essential to learn the art of pitching a story. Take a look at these pitch email examples and learn how to approach journalists with your story.

    You can start with sharing your company’s mission or an innovative vision that revolves around the reason or purpose of launching your product or services. Moreover, the purpose should be intended to help others. Remember to avoid any sales pitch to avoid boredom. 

    3- Share Quality Content Consistently

    Journalists look for the reputation or the market presence of a company before accepting PR requests or writing about them.

    Hence, develop an online presence by sharing ongoing changes in your company and information-packed content consistently through social media channels or your own website.

    This way editors will find your company’s information newsworthy and get a reason to write about you. 

    4- Follow-Up Emails Wisely

    Follow-up emails are highly effective in landing responses that you missed out in the first round.

    When you send your first mail, wait for a few days before following up. It is a good idea to have a tool to track email activity so that you get a notification if the recipient opens your email.

    If you do not receive any response even after the recipient opens your email, send a follow-up mail with more information.

    It is recommended to follow up at least three times for each contact.

    Several Examples of PR

    Let us check out the best examples of PR that tech startups can learn from:

    1- Happsy

    Happsy is an organic mattress manufacturer that planned to utilize a press release to announce its launch but with a twist.

    Instead of simply announcing their product launch, they found an angle to hook a vast audience and leverage product pricing as their USP.

    Here is a press release with the heading containing the words accessible to everyone to get the attention of the journalists.

    Since organic products are usually expensive, the press release hit the journalists’ and audiences’ attention by presenting Happsy organic mattresses’ affordability as an USP in the news.

    2- Gerber

    Gerber, a brand for early child nutrition experts, released news that narrated a well-rounded story. It was touching, had a compelling image, and had feel-good quotes from key players.

    The story not only left the readers satisfied but also made them look forward to more. Plus, the narrative prompted journalists to cover follow-up stories.

    3- Gojo

    This press release by Gojo immediately grabbed news reporters’ attention because the news covered the story of donating 16,000 liters of hand sanitizer to local hospitals.

    The news spreads the message that everyone should care about society during adverse conditions.

    In Summary

    Reputation is one of the primary pillars for any successful tech company. This is true for every company, no matter the size or industry.

    While it is possible for a tech startup to operate a business with little or no PR efforts, it is unlikely that the company will ever succeed in the industry or key markets.

    Using the above tips and examples, tech companies can actively engage in highly effective PR and capture the attention of customers and prospects.

  • What Should My Small Business Outsource?

    What Should My Small Business Outsource?

    Micromanaging often seems to go hand in hand with running a small business. But inevitably, as organizations grow, it becomes clear that even the most diligent and efficient owner can’t do everything. This is one of the many reasons outsourcing, where a business gets a product or service from a third party rather than handling it themselves, has become so enormously popular. Not only does outsourcing of some of the non-core business functions save time, but it can also significantly lower costs, increase efficiency and can give businesses access to an expertise pool that would be expensive to hire and retain. Whatever stage you’re at as an operation, there are functions of your business you should always look to outsource. Here are some of them.

    Accounting

    Businesses cannot function without accounting. You need to track and record invoices and payments (both incoming and outgoing) and taxes must be paid accurately and on time. Keeping tabs on your finances is time-consuming, and it is never a simple matter, especially if you are growing. There are a maze of regulations and requirements to contend with, and these practices often change. It is very easy to make mistakes, and errors can wind up being very costly. If an audit is triggered, this can mean your profits are destroyed by a flood of back taxes and penalties. Accounting is best left to experts. In these digital times, accounting is one of the first tasks a small business should outsource.

    HR

    Human Resources can be a minefield for small businesses. It’s a wide-ranging term covering all sorts of business functions – hiring, firing, training, time keeping, payroll, benefits and ongoing employee management. Much like accounting, there are many regulations and obligations that must be adhered to, with stiff penalties possible where mistakes are made. Outsourcing your HR has many benefits. Finding talent to recruit can be a long process – getting an expert to do this can get the right candidates in front of you. Payroll can become a smooth process instead of a monthly hassle while ensuring accuracy – and that the right amount of tax is paid! Leave can be managed closely so you don’t end up giving your staff 40 days off instead of 25.

    Marketing

    All businesses need to market themselves to retain their existing customers as well as finding new ones. To succeed in this digital era, you need a professional website, and you need to understand how to select, buy and execute the correct marketing channels. Although there is a science to it, in marketing nothing is ever a sure thing. Getting it right is an art, and one that takes a major time commitment on an ongoing basis. Hiring a marketing agency will take the stress of creating your message and putting it in the right place. They’ll help you with your strategy, your ad design and schedule all those pesky social media posts too! They can also build you the great, content-rich site you need (together with the SEO to get it up the search engine rankings) to give your business the digital shop window it needs. You’ll also want to know how to start a blog.

    Admin

    No matter what size the organization, nothing bogs small business owners down like our old friend admin. Scheduling meetings, managing diaries, fielding questions and staying on top of your inbox can be fiendishly difficult. Simple stuff, but time-consuming as heck. Fortunately, technology has made it possible to take all these tasks and hand them over to virtual assistants. VAs are becoming more and more commonplace and can be used to handle all manner of jobs that need doing but you don’t have the time for. No matter what’s required, you can find a VA with the skills you need that can work at a time that suits you. It can be a very cost-effective way of freeing you up to concentrate on growing your business.

    Hiring The Team You Need, When You Need It

    Today, the business world requires more flexibility than ever before. There have never been more opportunities, but competition has never been fiercer. When such opportunities arise, businesses need to scale quickly, but get the skill sets they need too. Hiring new employees or appointing individual contractors can be expensive, and a huge drain on time and resources. That is why so many companies turn to team as a service (taas) providers. With TAAS, you hire a remote team of highly skilled professionals. These are used to scale your company as rapidly and when you need it. After you’ve briefed the provider on your business and your needs, you can then use them as and when you want, on whatever sized tasks are required. You and your in-house team can then concentrate on core functions while keeping control over everything. Without doubt, it’s a new level of collaborative and flexible business thinking.

  • Techstars and JP Morgan to Invest in Latino Startups in the US

    Techstars and JP Morgan to Invest in Latino Startups in the US

    Techstars and JP Morgan are working together to invest in hundreds of Latino startups in the US.

    Investments in Latino businesses is disproportionately low, coming in at a mere 2% in the US, according to The Houston Chronicle. Techstars is trying to change that, working with JP Morgan to invest in 400 Latino businesses in nine US cities.

    One of the key factors for investment will be founders who understand their customers, and are working to address their needs.

    “Having a deep understanding of customer pain and an extraordinary ability to execute quickly are the criteria that weigh the most when evaluating the quality of a team,” says AndrĂ©s Barreto, Managing Director of Techstars Miami Powered by JP Morgan. “Founders obsessed with their customers’ pain are more likely to find it and solve it.”

    The investment program will provide training to founders to help them close financing rounds, hire the best talent, and manage future growth.

  • Guide to Starting a Massage Business

    Guide to Starting a Massage Business

    So you’ve decided it’s time to make a job move. Perhaps you’ve been working at a massage studio, or maybe a friend encouraged you to pursue a career in massage therapy and you’ve just earned your credentials but loathe the idea of working for someone else. Starting a massage therapy business can provide you with a high earning potential and high degree of personal freedom. While launching a massage therapy company may seem difficult, we’re here to assist you, with a simple step-by-step formula.

    Get Your Credentials in Order

    Massage therapist licenses and qualifications are regulated in most states. It might require anywhere from 330 to 1,000 hours of training, depending on the state. You may discover more about your state’s criteria by looking at the list of State Boards. Making sure your licensing is current is critical to protecting yourself and your new business from liability. It also sends a message of professionalism, which will help with attracting customers. 

    Aside from ensuring that your massage therapy licensure is up to date, you will also need auto insurance for independent contractors or business owners and a business license to do business in your locality. Check with your state’s Department of Commerce or Division of Corporations for an application and instructions. 

    Develop a Business Plan

    Having a business plan is like having a roadmap. You can keep revisiting it to ensure you’re on track to meet your objectives. What’s the “why” and “how” of your massage business? What makes you different from similar businesses in your area? What’s your pricing structure like? Who is your ideal customer, and how do you plan to reach them? What are your operating expenses? How will you market your business? These are all questions that should be answered in your business plan. 

    If you’ve never written a business plan, don’t fret. There are many business plan templates available online, often free of charge. Simply download one, review the sections, then get to work fleshing out the details of your business. 

    Create a Budget

    Creating a budget that lists your operating costs will help you determine how much start-up funding you’ll need. If you plan on establishing a brick-and-mortar massage therapy business for instance, you’ll need significantly more than you would need if you were starting a mobile massage business, which doesn’t require that you have your own workspace. 

    Having a budget will allow you to understand how much profit you’ll make based on the amount of business you get each month once your costs are deducted. If you need a small business loan to cover start-up expenditures, a budget will also help you forecast how you will pay back the loan as revenue starts flowing in. 

    If you’re new to business budgeting, you may not know exactly how to start. Fortunately, as with business plans, there are many business “Profit and Losses (P&L) templates available online. As your company grows, your budget will change too, including how you allocate money, so consider this a living document that you’ll go back to time and time again. 

    You’ll need to figure out the “P” side of your P&L once you know what your costs will be. Begin with a rough estimate of your earnings. Determine how many massages you can reasonably provide in a week. Let’s say you plan to do about five massages per day and want to work four days a week. If a massage costs $100 on average, calculate that by the 20 massages per week  you plan to do to obtain your potential weekly revenue. Then, double that amount by 52 weeks or however many weeks you plan to work during the year. Finally, simply split by 12 to determine your potential monthly revenue. However, this is not your profit. 

    “As a guideline, around 50% of what you make goes into the business and the other 50% goes home with you.” “So, if your monthly living expenditures are $2,000, your objective should be to make at least $4,000 each month,” notes Kelly Bowers, LMT, a Durham, North Carolina-based massage therapist and business trainer.

    Understand that whatever your earning potential is, getting there will take time. “You need to increase your customers. Plus, you’ll be spending a lot of money on promotion to try to get customers in the door,” Bowman adds. “So, it’ll take at least six months to break even, and it normally takes around a year.”

    Decide on Location

    As a solo entrepreneur, you have complete control over where you work and what atmosphere best suits your massage therapy practice. If you prefer to be placebound rather than offer mobile massage, some possibilities are working from a home office, securing a commercial space, or offering your services as a contractor to hotels, cruise ships, and resorts. 

    Many massage therapists operate their businesses from their homes. This saves you money on rent and eliminates the need to commute to work. A few things to consider include:

    • How will you divide your living area from your workspace?
    • Do you have other people in your house or in your area that might contribute to a noisy workplace?
    • Will you feel comfortable allowing strangers to enter your home?

    The upswing of providing mobile massage is that you don’t have to invite strangers into your home. And, the added convenience offered to clients, who don’t have to come to you, may allow you to charge on the higher end for your services. When considering becoming a mobile massage therapist, consider the following factors:

    • You’ll spend a considerable amount of time on the road
    • You’ll need a massage table that is easily portable 
    • Your vehicle will accrue a lot of wear and tear

    You might also be able to work out an agreement with a chiropractor or medspa whereby you rent space. That might be a less expensive alternative to getting your own commercial space, but may come with certain rules and restrictions, such as what days of the week or hours of the day they’re open, and what kinds of massage you can offer.   

    Get Massage Business Insurance

    It’s time to secure your massage company now that you know how to establish one. In addition to professional and general liability insurance, massage therapy workers’ comp insurance are absolutely essential for protecting you and your business, so you can focus on what you do best: taking care of your customers. Even if you don’t have any employees besides yourself, remember that massage therapy is a very physical job, where injury is always a possibility. If you are injured, a good workers’ comp policy ensures that your medical costs are covered so you can get back to work and grow your business quickly. Sure, it might seem like a big expense to purchase insurance up front. However, the second you need it, a good policy will pay for itself, saving you money and headaches. 

    Remember, success occurs at the junction of preparation and opportunity. So, be sure to spend the adequate amount of time, energy and money on the front end to secure your massage therapy business’ future. 

  • How Outdoor Exploration Makes You More Productive

    How Outdoor Exploration Makes You More Productive

    Though national and local parks come to mind at the thought of outdoor exploration, RV campgrounds and parks are other great conduits for natural recreation. With as many as 14,000 in the United States alone, options for enjoying them are many.

    Exploring mother nature has more immediate benefits too. Doing so has the ability to rebalance our industrialized lives with our humanity and human needs. Among children, building and fine motor skills are amplified alongside confidence. Memories with loved ones blossom through both outdoor exploration and repose. The physical activity made available by the natural environment gives our bodies a boost and the kinetic energy we crave. Nature also presents learning opportunities for both kids and adults of all ages as our senses continuously process new information and we discover new ways in which ecosystems interact and exist.

    Americans suffer from a vacation deficit. More than 28 million United States employees are not given paid holidays or vacation time. Of the remaining U.S. adults who do, a staggering 55% don’t utilize all of their paid time off, staying wired for productivity. These statistics do not bode well against other higher-earning countries. The typical amount of paid leave for employees in the private sector is 10 days. Meanwhile, Finland triples this average, giving a numerical mean of 30 days. Finland’s also taken first place as the world’s happiest country for the past four consecutive years.

    Not Taking Off Enough Time

    Americans take insufficient amounts of time off for a plethora of reasons. However, there seems to be heavy consensus on six. 61% report negligence towards repose at the fear of being deemed replaceable in their positions. 56% blame insufficient assistance and perceived forgiveness for overbearing tasks and assigned roles. With a significant population of pet parents, 54% struggle to find pet care and accommodations, keeping them from traveling. 54% prefer to dodge the stress and burdens of crafting itineraries and charting modes of transportation. 54% report worries regarding safety and peace of mind. 53% are deterred from vacationing due to expenses and lack of disposable income. Lastly, among U.S. adults who do use their vacation days, fewer than 50% use them to leave home.

    Enjoying the outdoors has innumerable benefits and we must orient our time towards reaping them. Just twenty minutes of fresh air, three days each week, has been proven to enhance brain function, minimize stress, augment well-being, and better memory. 

    If exploring the wilderness, and the thrills of doing so are not your speed, outdoor attractions can still provide the refreshment of fresh air without the uncertainties posed by wildlife and remote environments. By visiting a water or theme park, you can cherish open air while enjoying modern stimulation. When renting a boat, kayaking, canoeing, or whitewater rafting, you can enjoy open waters, green surroundings, and vast blue sky from afloat. By sightseeing, and participating in local tours, you can see new places by foot or by bike while enjoying nature’s elements. Lastly, simple family-friendly adventures, like hayrides, mini-golf, and orchids can provide outdoor fun in low-risk ways.

    In Conclusion

    Take care of yourself, as much as you take care of work. Then, you can reconnect with the gifts that mother nature endlessly offers.

  • Will Gun Liability Insurance Be Required?

    Injuries resulting from accidental firearm discharges account for 500 deaths annually with more than one occurring daily. Additionally, 37% of total non-deadly weapon injuries are unintended with 2% of direct gunshot deaths being inadvertent as well. 

    These incidents are preventable and should be avoided at all costs. Approximately 25% of gun fatalities are linked to alcohol – a statistic as high as 50% for gun deaths among twenty to twenty-nine-year-olds. Over 8 in 10 teen-committed suicides are conducted with an accessible household firearm. Of all age groups, teens and adolescents are most at-risk for accidental gun mortalities as parental figures are less likely to store guns locked and/or unloaded than those of younger kids.

    Firearm safes are a fundamental must-have for gun owners, placing a blockade between impulse and execution that save lives. The easy accessibility of guns increases susceptibility to mortality by suicide by 300%. Finding security in safes and investing in an emerging form of insurance, gun liability insurance, can lower this chance for you and your loved ones and keep weapons’ purpose of defense.

    Where is Gun Liability Insurance Required?

    San Jose, California, has been crowned the first city to necessitate gun liability insurance. Taking this monumental stride in firearm safety in January of 2022, Los Angeles is considering adopting the law in joining them. Gun liability insurance reduces premiums for the insured that are exhibiting good gun safety practices – further incentivizing firearm safety and having it backed legislatively.

    Gun liability insurance covers two important aspects of firearm ownership for homeowners, with separate options for renters. First, policies ensure gun owners against loss and theft, both of which take significant financial tolls with high-value guns being bold targets for embezzlement. Second, gun liability insurance offers protection for liability in all forms, with some specific exceptions that vary by provider. Lastly, while homeowners are the eligible population for the majority of gun liability policies, plans with less comprehensive coverage, that still hold significant value and preventative coverage, are available for renters.

    Among stand-alone gun insurance policies, intended damage tends to remain uninsured. Property injury from the voluntary discharge of a gun, crimes performed with stolen, but not reported, guns, and the retributions resulting from self-defense all remain liable. However, separate self-defense policies exist. Offered by insurance providers US Concealed Carry and Second Call Defense among other insurers, these protect acts of self-defense, in some capacity, whether they’ve been legally deemed as performed ‘with reasonable force’ or not. 31% of American firearm owners have presented a gun for self-defense, yet in more than 8 in 10 of these events, no shots were discharged.

    In Conclusion

    While many turn to gun ownership in pursuit of peace, the potential costs, physical, emotionally, and financially, put true peace of mind in gun liability insurance. With it, firearm owners can feel equipped to defend themselves and those nearest them without confronting the jarring repercussions of doing so alone. Providing financial, and with some plans, psychological and legal security as well, gun liability insurance not only incentives the safekeeping of firearms, but also full recovery from their use and misuse. Explore your options before you own and before you act, keeping safety at the forefront of firearm ownership.

    Is gun liability insurance required?
  • How Can You Protect Your Business Information?

    How Can You Protect Your Business Information?

    Every legal business will have to leave an electronic or paper trail of corporate filings, business licenses, tax records, financial statements, lawsuits, complaints as well as a variety of other documents. This means that anyone who wants to research a company, either for competitive reasons, random curiosity, or out of interest in doing business with it– can find a great deal of information online or in hard-copy files at local, state, and federal government offices.

    In California, for instance, when entrepreneurs submit documents for filing with the California Secretary of State, they are automatically creating a public record. Accordingly, all of the documentation and information that is provided for filing is therefore made available to the general public for copying and viewing. Internet search engines and third-party websites will also be able to access and use the information as they wish. Details such as the name of the person filing as well as any mailing and street addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses that are provided in public filings, will be made available.

    The California Constitution, as well as the California Public Records Act mandate that the Secretary of State provides public access to its records for public viewing and copying. The Golden State has advised that “Corporations and limited liability companies can update address information on the Secretary of State’s records by filing a Statement of Information. For other types of filings, updated address information for filings with the Secretary of State can be submitted through a subsequent amendment or amended filing.”

    How to Protect Personal Information When Starting a Business

    A California registered agent, also referred to as an agent for service of process, is a federal law requirement for every formal business entity in the state of California. This individual or business entity will receive all official paperwork from the California Secretary of State. They will also receive any service of process that a business may be served with— in the instance of a legal dispute.

    Many business owners, especially single-member LLCs, tend to choose to act as their own registered agents. While this is legally allowed, entrepreneurs put themselves at risk of having all of their private information– home address, personal contact details– made public on the California Business Entities Search. A way around this is by hiring a registered agent who will accept legal correspondence on behalf of the company, hence protecting the location of the owner’s home or private business. 

    Benefits of a Registered Agents Service

    Apart from just superior privacy, a California registered agent service also provides business owners with flexibility since registered agents are required to be available every working day of the year, at all normal business hours. Outsourcing the service allows entrepreneurs to be more flexible in the hours and locations that they work. 

    They also allow for discretion in sensitive matters since receiving service of process for a lawsuit at the actual business premises should not happen in front of employees and clients. Registered agents help to avoid this issue since they will receive any service of process and other documents at their personal office; they can then discreetly have them delivered via mail or online.

    Registered agents are required to be a resident or have permission to operate in a state, which can be an issue when a company looks to expand its operations to other states. Since most registered agent services have permission to operate in all 50 states across the United States, entrepreneurs will not have to go through the hassle of the additional paperwork and procedures when expanding.

    It is vital that businesses remember to file their required paperwork timeously to avoid fines and keep the company in good standing with the state– which is important in maintaining the limited liability protection of the business. A registered agent service will help the business with the filing of important paperwork and will maintain a compliance calendar and remind the business when annual reports or any other filings are due.

    Final Thoughts

    Privacy is an important aspect to keep in mind when starting up a new business, especially for entrepreneurs that run their business from a private residence or office space. While most states make the businesses filing information public, owners are able to protect their personal information by using a registered agent service that will handle all of the correspondence on behalf of the business.