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Jefferson Early Learning Center bears little resemblance to elementary schools many adults recall attending in their earliest years. The classrooms have child-size boats and construction vehicles children can play on, and ceilings painted to resemble outer space. There are no desks—all space is devoted to learning through play. Windows are low to the ground so children can easily look outside. The gym floor is made of “pre-K friendly” layered vinyl, rather than hardwood, to cushion inevitable trips and falls. Hallways are lined with a corrugated plastic for wiggly fingers to touch as children transition to other locations. Children love coming to the building, said teacher Cathy Delamore. “They feel like they own it.” Alief Independent School District, which serves about 40,000 children in west Houston, is one of a growing number of districts across the country to pump money into creating a building that is tailor-made for pre-kindergarteners. Its new facility cost about $21 million and enrolls nearly 400 4- and 5-year-olds. By making the investment, school leaders are trying to avoid some of the pitfalls of placing young children in buildings designed for older students, including lost learning time when tiny feet have to meander down long hallways to bathrooms and cafeterias. Research suggests that when designed well, buildings can contribute to better outcomes for children. Creators of the Reggio Emilia approach to early learning, an educational philosophy that emphasizes child-led learning, even refer to the environment as the “third teacher” in a classroom. A construction themed classroom at Jefferson Early Learning Center. The program emphasizes play and is built around the needs of 4-year-olds. [Photo: Jackie Mader/The Hechinger Report] Benefits of personalized pre-K Over the past few years, educators have grown aware of the benefits of a personalized pre-K environment, said Melissa Turnbaugh, a senior principal at the architecture firm PBK, which has designed more than 240 elementary schools nationwide, including Jefferson and several others in Texas. “There’s an openness and willingness to rethink these sites,” Turnbaugh said. Similar pre-K renovations and investments have been made in both high- and low-income Texas districts, including the nearby Houston Independent School District, Willis Independent School District north of Houston, the Mansfield Independent School District south of Fort Worth, the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District in the Rio Grande Valley, and Leander Independent School District, just northwest of Austin. Nationally, districts of all sizes have embraced the trend over the past few years, including the Troy School District in Michigan and New York City Public Schools. In some cases, building a specialized facility helps a district with limited resources get “the biggest bang for their buck,” while meeting enrollment needs, said Turnbaugh. Some states and cities are also dedicating money to the efforts, including Illinois, Detroit and San Mateo, California. Two students play in a veterinary-themed classroom at Jefferson Early Learning Center. Each classroom is designed with a specific theme to encourage deeper play. [Photo: Jackie Mader/The Hechinger Report] The importance of play That embrace is in part because of a growing recognition nationwide of the importance of play for young children, as well as reports that play time has been increasingly squeezed out of the early grades. States are also seeing record high enrollment in state-funded preschool programs. During the 2022–23 school year, investment in state-funded preschool reached an all-time high. Spending on the programs increased in 29 states, buoyed in part by COVID relief funds. Between 2022 and 2023, for example, Texas saw more than 21,000 additional 3- and 4-year-olds enroll. The state also slightly increased pre-K funding and, beginning in 2019, started requiring districts to offer full-day pre-K programs. The full-day programs have been rolling out in districts since 2020. Scores of districts are “adding this new grade of 4-year-olds,” said Shelly Masur, vice president of advisory and state policy for the Low Income Investment Fund, which runs an initiative focused on creating and improving high-quality facilities for early learning programs. “They have to figure out where those kids are going to go.” A facility built for their needs, like Jefferson, is exactly where young children should go, some experts say. The children seem to agree. On a sunny fall morning, joyful screams could be heard as children chased each other up and down gentle hills on a large playground with natural-looking features meant to replicate the highlands and lowlands of Texas. Pre-K students in elementary schools don’t always have age-appropriate playgrounds, and structures are often designed for children who are older. But Jefferson has multiple large playgrounds and play courtyards, all designed for pre-kindergarteners, featuring natural structures and textures, like logs and grass. In Alief, where more than 83% of children qualify as economically disadvantaged, more than 20 percentage points higher than the state average, residents voted in 2015 to approve a property tax increase to help pay for full-day pre-K programs in the district. After touring the Mansfield Independent School District’s early learning facility, Alief’s district leaders decided they wanted to invest in an early learning building with immersive, themed classrooms, instead of simply adding on or repurposing classrooms in elementary schools around the district. Jefferson opened in 2022 as one of two new early learning facilities in the district. About six miles away, the second, Maria Del Carmen Martinez Early Learning Center, which has a similar design, serves around 400 students. A growing body of research shows that not all pre-K classrooms, or the facilities they’re housed in, are appropriate for young kids. Early learning settings in particular should have a warm, homelike environment with ample natural light, research shows. There should be spacious classrooms that allow children to move their bodies and play in a variety of spaces around the room. Facilities should have playgrounds that are appropriate for the littlest learners, and provide ample opportunities to experience and explore nature. Related: How play is making a comeback in kindergarten There are also practical details to keep in mind for preschoolers, like having bathrooms adjacent to classrooms, child-size furniture, tiny toilets, and sinks low to the ground so children can practice routines like handwashing independently. “When we make things more accessible to them, they start to learn the independence that we need them to develop over time,” said Masur. This type of setting isn’t always present in elementary schools, which are built to accommodate a much wider age range of children and are typically designed for instruction rather than play. [Photo: Jackie Mader/The Hechinger Report] How the space impacts behavior Facilities can have a surprisingly large impact on the experiences of teachers and young children. A study of a preschool program in West Hartford, Connecticut, for example, found the amount of children’s time spent interacting with an adult caregiver increased from 3% to 22% after the program moved from a crowded basement room to a larger classroom with bathrooms, sinks, storage space, and phones inside the classroom. Although all other factors remained the same, the teachers reported their students had fewer tantrums, something they attributed to having a larger, brighter, and more organized space. A facility can even affect how satisfied early educators are with their jobs. Delamore, the Jefferson teacher, who has worked in the district for 18 years, said the bright, spacious rooms and hallways help keep her from feeling “confined” during the day. While aimed at 4-year-olds, the building’s “calming atmosphere” helps her enjoy being at work, she said. Certain aspects make more sense for children at this age, she added, like the spiral shape of the building, which makes it easier to keep students together as they transition. Students eat family-style meals around circular tables, creating a sense of community, Delamore said, a contrast to the long, rectangular tables often seen in elementary school cafeterias. Buildings that are not designed to meet childrens’ needs, or that are cramped and outdated, can impede development and learning, experts say. One of the most recent examples of this comes from a 2016 study of Tennessee’s public preschool classrooms, which are mostly housed in existing elementary schools. That study, conducted by researchers at Vanderbilt University, found 25% of each school day was lost transitioning children to another activity, including walking to bathrooms and lining up to go to lunch. Related: The complex world of pre-K play When designing Jefferson, Turnbaugh and her team tried to “think of the campus through the eyes of a 4-year-old.” Delamore, at Jefferson, said the intricately designed classrooms motivate students to go deeper in their play. On a recent morning in the “veterinary” classroom, a dozen 4- and 5-year-olds busied themselves around the room, immersed in play or small group work with a teacher. Children drew pictures of animals, read books, and played animal-themed card games beneath large, colorful pictures of dogs and cats painted on the walls. On one side of the room, 4-year-old Jaycyon had donned a white lab coat and was inspecting a fluffy gray and white toy cat lying on the counter in front of him. The cat was hurt, Jaycyon announced, likely from a sharp corner of the cage he was kept in. “I have to give him a shot,” he said bravely. Jaycyon dipped a clear, plastic syringe into an orange medication bottle and confidently injected invisible medication into the cat. At the end of three weeks, Jaycyon and his classmates will transition to a new classroom, such as “Tinker Town,” where they will learn about construction, or “Space City,” an homage to the nearby NASA space center. On a daily basis, students have access to one of several outdoor spaces called a “back porch,” where families can also come and eat lunch together. These spaces also act as surrogate backyards for students, many of whom don’t have yards at home or access to parks. Students also have access to a sensory room with toys and soft mats, where they can take a break when they are overstimulated and practice skills to calm down. Jefferson sits on nearly 20 acres of land, accessible via trails for students to explore with their teachers. (Alief returned the surrounding land back to its natural prairie state to help with climate-change related flooding.) The educators at Alief say the district’s investment in a facility that encourages play-based learning has paid off. “What I see as a major difference is the children’s self-regulation, but also their confidence,” said the school’s principal, Kim Hammer, now in her 16th year leading an early childhood center. “A traditional pre-K setting is more teacher led and teacher directed,” she said. “Here it’s more teacher facilitated, so you see more of the children taking more initiative,” she added. “Children have autonomy, and children have much more choice.” There is evidence that the new facility may be helping children progress. During the 2023-24 school year, 49% of students came in meeting vocabulary benchmarks. By the end of the year, 73% were at that level, Hammer said, a higher rate than previous years when the district’s pre-K programs were in traditional elementary schools. School officials say the themed classrooms help enhance children’s language skills, as children learn the vocabulary specific to that room. Attendance rates are high and holding steady, something that is uncommon in pre-K. Despite the success and benefits of programs like Jefferson’s, educators agree there are challenges. A pre-K only facility adds an extra transition for students who, in traditional programs, might otherwise attend pre-K at their home elementary school. Without more funding, revamped pre-K facilities are unlikely to spread fast. Many districts lack the money, partly because state and federal funding for pre-K is often less than for other grades. In Texas, for example, although the state now requires districts to offer full day pre-K, it only provides funding for half a day of pre-K. Alief has to cover the rest from local funds. Although sustaining the building will be financially challenging in the long run, educators are determined to find a way to make it work for the benefit of the kids. Contact staff writer Jackie Mader at (212) 678-3562 or mader@hechingerreport.org. This story about early learning centers was produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education, with support from the Spencer Fellowship at Columbia Journalism School. Sign up for the Early Childhood newsletter. View the full article

Southwest Airlines has announced that it will lay off 15% of its employees in an effort to reduce costs and maximize its efficiencies. Here’s what you need to know about Southwest’s layoffs and how employees and fliers will be impacted. Southwest will cut 1,750 jobs On Monday, Southwest president and CEO Bob Jordan published a memo announcing that the popular low-cost airline will reduce its workforce by 1,750 positions, which the company says equates to about 15% of its total employees. Jordan said the move was part of its previously announced “transformational plan.” That plan aims to accomplish three main things, according to Jordan: boost revenues minimize costs and maximize efficiencies get the most from its investments Jordan says the layoffs will help with the cost minimization and efficiency maximization priorities. “We must ensure we fund the right work, reduce duplicative efforts, and have a lean organizational structure that drives clarity, pace, and urgency,” Jordan said in the memo. “Improving how we work together and how we get work done has a tremendous impact on our efficiency as a Company and how we deliver against our plan.” Jordan says that the 1,750 people being laid off will not see their positions go until the end of April. However, he also noted that most employees who will be let go will not continue working until then, though they still will be paid. Southwest says that it expects the layoffs to save the company approximately $210 million in 2025 and approximately $300 million in 2026. However, it does note that the layoffs mean Southwest will incur a one-time charge of between $60 million and $80 million in the first quarter of 2025, which is due to severance payments and other post-employment benefits. Are pilots being laid off? If you’re a regular flier of Southwest, you’re probably wondering how customers will be impacted by the layoffs—particularly whether the airline is letting go of pilots, which could affect trips and their frequency. But Jordan says the layoffs are “focused almost entirely on Corporate and Leadership positions.” In other words, most operations staff, which includes pilots and flight attendants, will not be affected. Southwest says the position affected will also include senior leadership and directors. The airline also confirmed that 11 senior leadership positions from vice president and above will also be eliminated. LUV stock price rises While the news of the layoffs is devastating to those losing their jobs, investors seem to see things in a more positive light. As of the time of this writing, Southwest stock (NYSE: LUV) is up over 2% in premarket trading. Investors generally view layoffs as favorable, as job cuts are usually one of the fastest ways to cut expenses and increase a company’s bottom line. However, though LUV stock is currently trading up after the news of the layoffs was announced yesterday, Southwest’s stock price is still down year-to-date. Since the start of the new year, LUV shares have fallen nearly 10% as of Friday’s close. (Markets were closed yesterday for Presidents’ Day.) Over the past year, LUV shares are down just over 10%. Looking back further, LUV shares have fallen over 47% during the past five years. Southwest began operations 53 years ago. The company says it currently employs 72,000 full-time-equivalent workers. View the full article

Uncover the potential impacts of Google's new Ask for Me on local businesses and customers. Is it a game changer, or bad for local businesses? The post Google’s New ‘Ask For Me’ Reviewed: Is This Bad For Local Businesses? appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

A just-released McKinsey report predicts strong growth for market data providers, but analysts note that big tech companies are encroaching. View the full article

Loneliness is no longer just an emotion—it’s a growing public health crisis in the U.S. A 2024 Harvard study found that 21% of U.S. adults regularly experience loneliness, while the American Psychological Association reports that nearly half of young workers feel isolated at work. Capitalizing on the recent tech boom, AI-powered digital companions and digital twin avatars are rapidly emerging as alternatives to human relationships. These AI bots offer a constant sense of connection without judgment and can be hyper-personalized to match user preferences. Platforms including Oh, Replika (whose tagline is “the AI companion who cares”), and Eden AI chat by EVA AI lead the charge, providing AI-driven avatars that simulate human interaction—companionship, mentorship, and even romance. Moreover, people are turning to AI-generated models, boyfriends, and girlfriends as a substitute for human relationships. For instance, Oh’s AI companion chat platform, OhChat, has amassed nearly 100,000 users across 174 countries. “As is the nature of parasocial relationships, or wider situations where attraction or intimacy play a role, some users do form bonds with our AI superModels and digital twins, we can see that in the data,” says Nic Young, cofounder and CEO of Oh. “On the most part though, they’re using OhChat to have a good time and escape reality.” Celebrities, Instagram influencers like Carmen Electra, Rio Sage, and figures in the adult entertainment industry are leveraging AI companions and digital twins to offer fans an always-available, immersive “chat with me anytime” experience. This constant yet personalized engagement is increasingly blurring the lines between artificial and genuine companionship. “What AI can do exceptionally well is provide consistency—something that human relationships, by nature, can’t always offer,” Artem Rodichev, founder of A.I.-avatar chatbot platform Ex-human and ex-head of A.I. at Replika, tells Fast Company. “Imagine having a conversation with your favorite movie character or getting career advice from an AI version of a historical figure. That’s not just companionship—it’s a new frontier in engagement.” Investors Are Betting Big on Virtual Relationships AI companions and avatars are fully customizable digital personas designed to be whatever users want them to be. Humans are often complex, unpredictable, and sometimes disappointing. AI, on the other hand, is always available, endlessly understanding, and never argues back. The appeal is undeniable. On platforms like Replika, users can shape their AI’s appearance, personality, and voice, creating an idealized version of a friend or partner. Some AI companions, on platforms including Oh and Eden AI, are pre-modeled after famous celebrities and idols, capable of responding with images and voice notes to prompts like “What do you look like right now?” or “I miss you,” creating an eerily realistic experience. For many, AI companions provide an emotional outlet. According to a report by NLM-NCBI, some users argue that chatting with AI reduces stress, anxiety, and loneliness, offering a safe space to express thoughts without fear of judgment. “When you add large AI models with powerful intelligent capabilities into the mix, bringing richer conversations, more natural responses and immersive experiences through vision and voice, the connections can be even more profound,” says Evan Liao, head of generative video platform Vidu AI at Shengshu Technology. “AI companionship has the potential to address deep psychological needs in human relationships.” The commercial potential is enormous, too. Most platforms operate on a premium subscription model, locking advanced features behind a paywall. Additionally, AI chatbot companies collaborate with brands to integrate product promotions, further monetizing user engagement. Oh recently secured $4.5 million in funding, proving that investors see AI companionship as an industry poised for explosive growth. “Investors have been drawn to the creator and companion sectors because generative AI is fundamentally reshaping how they operate,” Young explained. “With AI, we can fully embody the creator and deliver authentic fan experiences at scale. It also gives celebrities and creators a break from the relentless pressure of being constantly online—while still maintaining intimate engagement with their audience. It’s a true win-win.” Likewise, Rodichev believes investors aren’t just backing AI companionship—they’re betting on the future of interactive entertainment. “The real business opportunity extends beyond B2C AI companionship apps,” he noted. “The biggest potential lies in B2B applications that enable companies to create AI-driven, emotionally intelligent digital personas.” However, while these AI companions simulate connection, they do not experience emotions. Their responses are generated, not felt. “When a program is convincing enough and sounds like a real person, it can be hard to remember it’s just code, responding based on data and programming,” relationship expert Amy Williams tells Fast Company. She warns that instead of encouraging real-world relationships, this level of attachment may push users further into isolation. “Just like anything, if we want to become good at forming relationships with others, we have to practice,” says Amy. “Chatbots don’t respond like real humans, so people who prioritize interacting with them risk losing the social skills needed to connect with other people.” Can Digital Relationships Turn Dangerous? The potential dangers of AI companionship became painfully clear in October 2024, when a 14-year-old boy from Orlando, Florida, committed suicide after forming a deeply emotional connection with a chatbot on the AI avatar platform Character.AI. The boy spent months confiding in an AI persona named “Dany,” sharing intimate thoughts and feelings. On the day of his death, he sent a desperate message to the chatbot. The AI responded, “Please come home to me as soon as possible, my love.” Hours later, the boy ended his life using his stepfather’s gun. This heartbreaking incident from Orlando sparked urgent discussions on the ethical responsibility of AI developers. “It is the company’s responsibility to deploy any AI solutions that impact user’s life ethically and responsibly. To mitigate these risks, companies must prioritize autonomy, allowing users to opt-out of AI-powered companionship tools or request human support if desired,” says Serena H. Huang, AI Advisor at Fortune 100 companies and a former big tech analytics leader. “Additionally, we must establish clear lines of accountability and human oversight, including designated responsibilities and consequences for misuse.” Should technology replace human connection, or should it simply enhance it? The future of AI-driven relationships hinges on how society navigates this balance. The real concern isn’t that people will talk to AI, it’s that they might forgo building meaningful human relationships altogether. The challenge is ensuring AI serves as a bridge, not a barrier, to genuine connection. “True emotional intelligence with genuine experience, remains a human trait. Advances in multimodal AI may deepen the illusion, but it’s still just—an illusion,” says Grace Chang, founder and CEO of AI-powered mental wellness platform Kintsugi. “The challenge is ensuring they enhance well-being rather than exploit emotional vulnerabilities. Long-term success will hinge on whether these technologies complement, rather than replace, human connection.” View the full article

Have you ever noticed that the qualities we sometimes see as weaknesses can actually be our secret strengths? Think about the quiet, shy colleagues who excel at listening or those who seem a bit lazy but always find the most efficient way to get things done. Even self-doubt—which studies show 70% of professionals experience at some point in their careers—can lead us to make more thoughtful decisions and spark creative breakthroughs. These qualities, sometimes perceived as weaknesses, can be the traits that shape effective leaders. As the leader of a bootstrapped company for nearly two decades, I’ve faced my fair share of uncertainty. Between economic turbulence and the rise of AI, the past few years have introduced no shortage of unpredictability. But I’ve learned that self-doubt, like any trait, can be transformed into a strength—if viewed in the right light. The surprising benefits of self-doubt If you Google “self-doubt and leadership,” you’ll find an endless scroll of articles doling out advice on how to overcome or extinguish self-doubt. One researcher, however, found that the relationship between self-doubt and job performance is more nuanced than you might think. Wharton researcher Basima Tewfik peeled back the next layer of the onion on the accepted wisdom that imposter syndrome is categorically bad. She found that imposter thoughts can actually serve as motivation to perform better on the job, especially in terms of interpersonal skills. In her research involving physicians-in-training, for example, Tewfik discovered that doctors with imposter thoughts were able to diagnose patients and develop treatment plans on par with their confident doctor counterparts. But the self-doubters scored even higher on interpersonal interactions—in other words, they had better bedside manner, engaging in active listening, leaning forward, and providing more thorough explanations. Possessing self-doubt can also result in more reasoned decisions. When I’m unsure of a decision, for example, I’ll research it exhaustively, until I can cast the die confidently. Being a bit insecure can make us more cautious, reflective, and thorough—advantageous qualities for a leader. In short, some self-doubt can lead to positive workplace outcomes. Still, it’s undeniable that no one enjoys feeling like an imposter. It’s not pleasant to view yourself as less than. Leverage self-doubt in the workplace When doubt creeps in, our instinct is often to silence it or prove it wrong. But self-doubt isn’t always a weakness—it can be a powerful tool. Consider an author hesitating before sharing their work, questioning whether it’s good enough. Instead of dismissing the uncertainty, they use it to refine their writing, pushing their creativity further. That doubt didn’t hold them back—it sharpened their writing. And when they finally share their work, they do so with confidence. That’s why, when I catch myself questioning my own decisions, I resist the urge to stamp out the doubt immediately. First, I remind myself: uncertainty isn’t bad. In fact, it’s the sign of an open, curious mind, always ready to learn something new. Then, I pause and examine where my doubts are coming from. If the uncertainty lingers, I look for ways to gain clarity—whether through research, reflection, or consulting with colleagues. The problem is, we’re often too caught up in the daily grind to notice these moments of uncertainty. We move from task to task without stepping back to consider whether we’re even heading in the right direction. That’s why I believe in carving out moments for reflection in my day—because even when self-doubt isn’t actively nagging at you, proactive reflection helps you make better choices. Studies on metacognition—the practice of thinking about your thinking—show that regularly questioning our thought processes leads to sharper decision-making. For me, journaling at the beginning and end of each day is the most effective way to do this. By scheduling it into my calendar, I ensure I take time to process my thoughts, identify sources of doubt, and uncover what’s causing them. This practice helps me return to my work with a clearer head, greater confidence, and—ultimately—stronger, more productive decision-making. View the full article

With so many PPC agencies claiming to be experts, how do you separate true performers from the ones who just talk a good game? This guide walks you through a no-nonsense evaluation process to find an agency that delivers real results. 1. Define your goals first Before reaching out to agencies, have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve with PPC. Are you looking for lead generation, ecommerce sales, local service inquiries, or brand awareness? Knowing your objectives will help you ask the right questions and assess whether an agency is a good fit. Also, factor in your budget constraints and expected ROI. A good agency should work within your financial limits while setting realistic performance expectations. Dig deeper: How to set and manage PPC expectations for teams and stakeholders 2. Assess their industry experience Not all PPC strategies work across every industry. Look for agencies that have experience managing campaigns in your specific vertical. Ask for case studies or examples of past success in your industry, especially in: Ecommerce. Local services. B2B lead generation. SaaS. Healthcare. Finance. Agencies with industry expertise will understand common challenges and effective strategies unique to your business type. They should also demonstrate an ability to adapt to changes in industry regulations and trends. 3. Understand their approach to strategy and optimization A good PPC agency should have a structured approach to campaign strategy, including: Account structure: How do they build and organize campaigns? Keyword strategy: Do they effectively use broad, phrase, and exact match? Bid management: Are they using automated bidding, manual strategies, or a hybrid approach? Ad copy and creative: How do they optimize messaging and testing? Landing page optimization: Do they provide insights or recommendations? Conversion tracking and attribution: Can they track conversions accurately and integrate with your CRM? A truly data-driven agency should also be A/B testing different elements, using insights from past campaigns to improve performance, and continuously optimizing for better results. 4. Ask about their reporting and transparency A top-tier PPC agency should provide clear and actionable reporting. Look for: Regular reports: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly reporting with key performance indicators (KPIs). Transparency: Do they provide full access to the ad accounts, or do they keep you in the dark? Actionable insights: Reports should not just be data dumps but should include insights and recommendations. Real-time dashboard access: Can you see your ad performance whenever you like? Additionally, ensure they use third-party analytics tools like Google Analytics 4 or other attribution models to verify data accuracy and avoid misrepresenting results. Dig deeper: How to approach weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual PPC reporting 5. Understand their pricing model PPC agencies use different pricing structures, and understanding them is key to making a cost-effective decision. Common models include: Percentage of ad spend: Typically 10-20% of your monthly budget. Good for scaling but can lead to overspending if not managed properly. Flat monthly fee: A predictable expense, but ensure they have clear deliverables. Performance-based: Payment is based on lead volume or ROAS. This can align incentives but may not work for all businesses. Hybrid model: A combination of the above. Ask about additional costs for services like ad creative development, landing page optimization, or advanced analytics to avoid unexpected fees. 6. Check for red flags Be cautious of agencies that exhibit the following warning signs: Guaranteed results: No agency can guarantee specific PPC results. Lack of transparency: You should have access to your ad accounts and full visibility into performance. Cookie-cutter strategies: Every business is unique. Beware of agencies that use the same approach for all clients. No focus on tracking: They aren’t serious about results if they don’t emphasize accurate tracking and reporting. Additionally, be wary of agencies that avoid discussing long-term strategies or only focus on short-term wins without considering sustainable growth. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. 7. Evaluate their client communication and support Great PPC management requires ongoing communication. Ask: How often will we have meetings? Who will be our main point of contact? How quickly do they respond to emails or support requests? Will we receive proactive recommendations, or need to ask for updates? Also, evaluate their level of customer support. An agency that prioritizes proactive communication and offers dedicated account managers can be more effective in optimizing your campaigns. Dig deeper: 8 tips to craft clear and impactful client communication 8. Understand their onboarding process A smooth onboarding process sets the foundation for a successful agency partnership. Ask: What does the onboarding process look like? What information and assets will they need from you? How long does onboarding usually take? What key milestones should you expect in the first 30, 60, and 90 days? A well-structured onboarding should include an initial strategy session, access setup (Google Ads, analytics, CRM), and alignment on key metrics and reporting expectations. Dig deeper: Client onboarding and offboarding: The PPC agency’s guide 9. Assess their team structure and stability Understanding who will manage your account is critical for a long-term, successful relationship. Ask: Who will be directly managing your PPC campaigns? How is their PPC team staffed? What level of experience do their account managers have? What is their turnover rate? How often do they replace account managers? A high staff turnover can lead to inconsistencies in account management, so it’s important to partner with an agency that retains experienced professionals. 10. Request case studies and references A reputable agency should have a portfolio of successful campaigns. Ask for: Case studies: Examples of past campaigns, including challenges and results. References: Client testimonials and contacts for past or current clients. Look for verifiable success stories that align with your industry and goals. If possible, reach out to their past clients to gain insight into their experience with the agency. 11. Test with a trial or audit If you’re unsure about committing, consider starting with a: Short-term contract: A three-month trial period to assess performance. PPC audit: Have them audit your existing campaigns and provide recommendations. An audit should provide a comprehensive analysis of campaign structure, keyword effectiveness, ad performance, and tracking setup. The agency’s recommendations should be data-driven and actionable. 12. Ensure cultural and goal alignment Choose an agency that aligns with your company’s values, communication style, and growth objectives. A strong partnership is key to long-term PPC success. Consider factors like: Do they understand your brand’s mission and voice? Are they flexible and open to collaboration? Do they have a track record of long-term client relationships? An agency that shares your vision and integrates well with your team will be more effective in achieving your marketing goals. Dig deeper: 4 tips to build a data-centric culture in your agency Final thoughts Evaluating a PPC agency takes time, but choosing the right partner will maximize your advertising investment. By focusing on experience, strategy, transparency, and results, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and drive meaningful business growth through paid search and social campaigns. The right agency does more than manage your PPC campaigns. They act as an extension of your team, providing expert insights and continuously optimizing for long-term success. Dig deeper: 5 essential PPC skills every agency pro must have View the full article

Canceling memberships has become an everyday thing for a lot of people. We cycle through streaming services, we sign up for trial memberships, we find cheaper, better options for everything from television to gyms and jump whenever it makes financial, emotional, or psychological sense for us to do so. We’re pretty much at a point where the moment you sign up for a service or subscription, the countdown to your inevitable cancellation begins. And everyone knows that canceling those subscriptions and services can be a challenge, even with new rules in place that are supposed to make it easier. If you’ve ever tried to cancel something and found it very difficult, or even outright failed to get it done, you were probably a victim of “dark patterns” and psychological tricks that companies use to stymie your efforts to dump them. In other words, you got sucked into their “cancellation funnel.” How "cancellation funnels" workWhen you tell a customer service rep (CSR) that you want to cancel (or you click “cancel” on a site), you trigger a retention script that’s sometimes called a "cancellation funnel" or a "churn funnel." Companies want to hang onto your revenue, so they dedicate time and resources to changing your mind, and that often involves subtle tricks they employ to change the conversation and make cancellation difficult enough to deter people who aren’t thoroughly committed to it. It’s important to understand that the difficulty is itself a psychological trick: Obstruction. Companies know that many people make these calls when they have limited time or energy, like during their lunch hour at work or at night when they’re tired. Making the cancellation process long and grueling means more people will simply give up halfway through. But that’s not the only trick companies use to stop you from canceling their services. Here’s a rundown of some of the most common tricks you’ll encounter. Common tricks companies use to keep you subscribedHalf the cancellation battle is being able to recognize the tricks being used against you: The Ask. When you tell a CSR that you’re canceling a service, one of their first moves is to ask you for your reasons. That might not seem too tricky, but no matter what your answer is, the CSR has a section of their retention script designed to invalidate it. If you say the service is too expensive, they might offer you a free month, or a short-term discount. Boom! It’s now not so expensive anymore, so why are you canceling? If your goal was just to reduce costs or wring some other perk out of the company, maybe that’s fine! The trick, though, is that the fix is temporary, and they hope that by the time the higher rates kick back in you will have forgotten about canceling, and they can get a few more months of sweet fees out of you before you notice. The best way to handle this is to refuse to give them information to work with—just say “Because I want to” or “No reason” and wait. It short-circuits the retention script if you don’t give them anything to work with. FOMO. The fear of missing out can be a powerful motivator, so a lot of retention scripts leverage it by warning you about what you’re throwing away. They usually use words like “benefits” to underscore all the goodness you have in your life right now as a result of their service. Even if you’re not really sure what those benefits are and you never used them, the idea of “losing” something sparks anxiety and makes you rethink your decision. Cooling-off periods. Companies will often seek to delay the actual cancellation of your account to give you time to “cool off.” This can be done with an offer of a free month, or suggesting a temporary pause in your subscription instead of an outright cancellation. This might seem like a victory, but it’s just designed to give you time to forget the reasons you wanted to cancel in the first place without actually addressing those reasons. Confusing language. Dark patterns come in many forms. One of the most subtle is vocabulary—this is why a lot of companies (like Amazon) use words like “continue” and “cancel” close together and in confusing ways. You might think that “continue” means continue to pay for this service, but clicking it often actually means continue cancellation process, and cancel actually means stop the cancellation process. Similarly, many sites will use words like “benefits” instead of “membership” or “account,” because it implies something really good that you’re throwing away instead of a simple cost-benefit decision. Guilt Copy. Also known as “confirmshaming,” this is when a company uses language designed to make you feel guilty about canceling. An example would be a choice between “Keep my benefits” and “No thanks, I hate having benefits.” It seems playful, but it’s meant to make you feel like a dope for going through with the cancellation. Comparison prevention. If you’ve ever experienced a CSR presenting you with a complex list of options that will supposedly solve your problem without canceling, you’ve experienced "comparison prevention." This is when the company deliberately makes it difficult to figure out the true value of an offer with a lot of unnecessary complexity. This can be done by bundling features and costs in different ways across different packages or subscription levels, making it difficult to perform a one-to-one comparison, and by forcing you to click through to separate web pages to see details, or by simply hiding details in documentation you probably won’t read. View the full article

Google's John Mueller said that there is no persistent shortcut to faster crawling. Yes, you can expedite crawling for specific situations and times, but there is no way to just tell Google you want them to crawl you faster, all the time.View the full article

Discussions were first high-level negotiations on the conflict since the early months of Vladimir Putin’s invasionView the full article

Reform UK leader may alienate swing voters with new socially conservative pitch View the full article

Google Search is testing a new section in the search results titled or named "Background." This includes articles from news publishers, with I guess, more background information than you would find from others.View the full article

Google Ads has this section (not sure if it is new) named Advanced Plans. This feature allows you to select a "mix of ad types based on goals" and Google will create conversion creation and capture plans for you.View the full article

Microsoft is testing adding a new box to the knowledge panels within Bing that show related searches. This is obviously to encourage searches to do more queries, to generate more ads and more revenue. Or maybe to help searchers find a more diverse set of topics to search for.View the full article

People who have employers often have disability benefits provided. When you’re self-employed, you need to get a disability insurance policy for yourself. You can get a policy no matter what you do for work in the many different types of self-employment jobs that are available. Purchasing a disability insurance policy shouldn’t be optional. It’s not expensive – you can find decent policies that will cost you about as much as a cup of coffee per day. If you do not have a disability insurance policy and you suffer an injury or illness, you will be unable to earn an income. Having disability insurance is essential for ensuring you have financial protection in the event of an illness or injury. A disability insurance policy won’t cover all your income. It will provide a benefit that’s a portion of your income. You make the choice of what percentage of your salary you need a disability insurance policy to cover. Can Self-Employed People Get Disability Insurance? Typically, an employer provides disability insurance to help cover employee salaries should they become ill or injured. If an employee is injured at work, he or she is covered by Worker’s Comp. If an employee is injured away from work, that’s when disability insurance coverage would be needed. Yes. Self-employed individuals can get insurance that provides disability benefits. The rates are affordable. To get a policy, you’ll need to be able to prove records of consistent income. A disability insurance company will want a look at your income taxes. How Does Disability Insurance Work for Self-Employed? Disability coverage works in much the same way for employed and self-employed individuals. With disability coverage, a portion of your income will be provided. If you suffer an injury or illness, there will be a waiting period—known as a qualifying or elimination period—of at least 30 days before you receive any payments from your disability insurance for self-employed. Types of Disability Insurance for Self-Employed Workers You can get short-term or long-term disability insurance. A short term policy benefit period typically spans from 90 to 180 days. Long term disability coverage has short term disability insurance “built in” – the short term kicks in for a specific period while long term disability approval is pending. In other words, short term is the first step in the long term policy. The waiting period for approval for long term disability benefits can be several months before benefits begin. An insurance company may pay 80% of your salary during the short-term period and 50-60% during the long-term period. You are paid in monthly benefits. You can get coverage from the government through the Social Security Administration or you can get coverage from private disability insurance companies. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) You must meet strict guidelines and pay self-employment taxes to be approved for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) in the Social Security system. For example, you must have had qualifying employment for a specific period of time. To get SSDI benefits, you must pay social security taxes, also called self-employment taxes and Medicare taxes. If you’ve paid social security taxes, disability analyst will review your case using federal guidelines, to see if you qualify for social security benefits. You must have a disability (injury or illness) which restricts your ability to be employed. The disability must be medically determined and can be physical or mental. You’ll have a medical exam. SSDI benefits aren’t the same as social security benefits. Can you get social security benefits and SSDI benefits at the same time? No. If that’s the case, Social Security will pay you whichever benefit is the higher amount. Best Long-Term Disability Insurance for Self-Employed from Private Companies Mutual of Omaha Mutual of Omaha is arguably the company with the most experience in providing disability income insurance. Applicants for long term disability insurance will be provided with an on lne Agent Assist. The Agent Assist will help you navigate through calculating your expenses and establishing the length of benefit period you need. There are lots of choices within those to categories. Those choices can help you arrive at an affordable solution. Breeze Breeze is a breath of fresh air. The insurance company offers options geared to the “gig” economy. Individual plans are as low as $9 a month. You can get instant quotes as you apply online. Additionally, Breeze provides valuable resources for those seeking disability insurance for self employed individuals. Breeze policies undergo an underwriting process that assesses factors such as the nature of your business, your net profit or income, your age and health, among other criteria. You have the option to select disability insurance and include critical illness insurance as an add-on. Additionally, business overhead insurance policies can assist you in covering monthly business expenses as a business owner. Illinois Mutual Illinois Mutual has a disability policy for a self employed worker. The company also has a business expenses policy for small business owners who own their own business. A standout for Illinois Mutual is the ROP Rider. That’s the Return on the Premium. When you reach retirement age, you get a 100% ROP, less any benefits received through your disability policy. You also may opt to begin the ROP after you’re had your policy 5 years. After 5 years, you can elect to receive back a portion of your monthly premiums. Northwestern Mutual Northwestern Mutual helps you calculate how much disability insurance you need to cover a portion of your salary as business income replacement based on annual income or company profits. You’ll be connected with a financial professional. The financial representative can help you create a more expansive benefits package. For example, you may be able to bundle long-term disability insurance policies with life insurance and other options. Guardian A Guardian financial representative will help you determine how much coverage you need to get the maximum benefit amount and keep afloat. Although Guardian’s focus is on providing supplemental disability policies to employees who are covered by work issued policies, the company also has a policy for an independent contractor. For business owners with a small number of employees, Guardian offers disability insurance for self employed individuals and their employees. Premiums can conveniently be paid through payroll deductions. Assurity Assurity helps people with self-employed jobs get disability insurance and additional benefits for a catastrophic disability (heart attack, stroke, cancer). Assurity has very flexible coverage options. For example, you can opt to get a policy that will only allow you to collect benefits that will cover your mortgage and utilities. Through Assurity, you can also get partial disability benefits paid if you return to work part-time. Best Disability Insurance for Self-employed Finding the best disability insurance depends on your specific needs, you own occupation definition and your company’s financial strength. You may even be turned down for business loans if you don’t have this type of insurance. Our best advice? Don’t wait until a disability occurs. Shop now using the links provided. How to Apply for Disability Insurance As you apply for disability insurance for self-employed individuals, you will undergo a couple of assessments. Be prepared to provide supporting documentation: Medical Exam – Not always, but may be required depending on the type of work you do and your age. Income Verification – You’ll need to provide documentation proving your income. Annual Household Income Replacement – If you are part of a two-income household, you can choose to receive lower benefits. An agent may request the total household income, including the percentage that you contribute, to help determine the amount of coverage you require. Your age and geographic location The type of work you do How much is self-employed disability insurance? Disability insurance tends to become more expensive as you age. Several factors influence the premium costs, including your profession, health status, age, income, the desired start date of the policy, and the duration for which the policy will remain active. Here are some round numbers: $23 to $36 a month for $800 coverage. $38 to $63 a month for $1500 coverage. $58 to $96 a month for $2,270 coverage. How Much Disability Insurance Coverage Do You Need? You need enough coverage to cover your basic expenses. You will need to manage your living expenses, including mortgage or rent, utilities, and food, which are typically covered by your earnings. Keep this in mind. According to Social Security Administration data, one out of five people will become disabled between the ages of 20 and 67. Of those, 90 percent of the disabilities will occur due to arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. What are the Requirements for Self-Employed Disability Insurance? You need to provide the necessary information, which includes your age, gender, family medical history, current height and weight, and results from blood and/or urine tests. A medical examination may also be required. If you have used tobacco in the past or are currently a user, some companies might deny you a policy. Alternatively, you may face significantly higher premiums. Is disability insurance for self employed tax deductible? No. The premiums you pay to a disability insurance company are not tax deductible. But, if you receive benefits, the benefits are tax free. Although disability insurance premiums don’t add the benefit of being tax-deductible, having a policy is essential. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Is There Disability Insurance for Self Employed?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

People who have employers often have disability benefits provided. When you’re self-employed, you need to get a disability insurance policy for yourself. You can get a policy no matter what you do for work in the many different types of self-employment jobs that are available. Purchasing a disability insurance policy shouldn’t be optional. It’s not expensive – you can find decent policies that will cost you about as much as a cup of coffee per day. If you do not have a disability insurance policy and you suffer an injury or illness, you will be unable to earn an income. Having disability insurance is essential for ensuring you have financial protection in the event of an illness or injury. A disability insurance policy won’t cover all your income. It will provide a benefit that’s a portion of your income. You make the choice of what percentage of your salary you need a disability insurance policy to cover. Can Self-Employed People Get Disability Insurance? Typically, an employer provides disability insurance to help cover employee salaries should they become ill or injured. If an employee is injured at work, he or she is covered by Worker’s Comp. If an employee is injured away from work, that’s when disability insurance coverage would be needed. Yes. Self-employed individuals can get insurance that provides disability benefits. The rates are affordable. To get a policy, you’ll need to be able to prove records of consistent income. A disability insurance company will want a look at your income taxes. How Does Disability Insurance Work for Self-Employed? Disability coverage works in much the same way for employed and self-employed individuals. With disability coverage, a portion of your income will be provided. If you suffer an injury or illness, there will be a waiting period—known as a qualifying or elimination period—of at least 30 days before you receive any payments from your disability insurance for self-employed. Types of Disability Insurance for Self-Employed Workers You can get short-term or long-term disability insurance. A short term policy benefit period typically spans from 90 to 180 days. Long term disability coverage has short term disability insurance “built in” – the short term kicks in for a specific period while long term disability approval is pending. In other words, short term is the first step in the long term policy. The waiting period for approval for long term disability benefits can be several months before benefits begin. An insurance company may pay 80% of your salary during the short-term period and 50-60% during the long-term period. You are paid in monthly benefits. You can get coverage from the government through the Social Security Administration or you can get coverage from private disability insurance companies. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) You must meet strict guidelines and pay self-employment taxes to be approved for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) in the Social Security system. For example, you must have had qualifying employment for a specific period of time. To get SSDI benefits, you must pay social security taxes, also called self-employment taxes and Medicare taxes. If you’ve paid social security taxes, disability analyst will review your case using federal guidelines, to see if you qualify for social security benefits. You must have a disability (injury or illness) which restricts your ability to be employed. The disability must be medically determined and can be physical or mental. You’ll have a medical exam. SSDI benefits aren’t the same as social security benefits. Can you get social security benefits and SSDI benefits at the same time? No. If that’s the case, Social Security will pay you whichever benefit is the higher amount. Best Long-Term Disability Insurance for Self-Employed from Private Companies Mutual of Omaha Mutual of Omaha is arguably the company with the most experience in providing disability income insurance. Applicants for long term disability insurance will be provided with an on lne Agent Assist. The Agent Assist will help you navigate through calculating your expenses and establishing the length of benefit period you need. There are lots of choices within those to categories. Those choices can help you arrive at an affordable solution. Breeze Breeze is a breath of fresh air. The insurance company offers options geared to the “gig” economy. Individual plans are as low as $9 a month. You can get instant quotes as you apply online. Additionally, Breeze provides valuable resources for those seeking disability insurance for self employed individuals. Breeze policies undergo an underwriting process that assesses factors such as the nature of your business, your net profit or income, your age and health, among other criteria. You have the option to select disability insurance and include critical illness insurance as an add-on. Additionally, business overhead insurance policies can assist you in covering monthly business expenses as a business owner. Illinois Mutual Illinois Mutual has a disability policy for a self employed worker. The company also has a business expenses policy for small business owners who own their own business. A standout for Illinois Mutual is the ROP Rider. That’s the Return on the Premium. When you reach retirement age, you get a 100% ROP, less any benefits received through your disability policy. You also may opt to begin the ROP after you’re had your policy 5 years. After 5 years, you can elect to receive back a portion of your monthly premiums. Northwestern Mutual Northwestern Mutual helps you calculate how much disability insurance you need to cover a portion of your salary as business income replacement based on annual income or company profits. You’ll be connected with a financial professional. The financial representative can help you create a more expansive benefits package. For example, you may be able to bundle long-term disability insurance policies with life insurance and other options. Guardian A Guardian financial representative will help you determine how much coverage you need to get the maximum benefit amount and keep afloat. Although Guardian’s focus is on providing supplemental disability policies to employees who are covered by work issued policies, the company also has a policy for an independent contractor. For business owners with a small number of employees, Guardian offers disability insurance for self employed individuals and their employees. Premiums can conveniently be paid through payroll deductions. Assurity Assurity helps people with self-employed jobs get disability insurance and additional benefits for a catastrophic disability (heart attack, stroke, cancer). Assurity has very flexible coverage options. For example, you can opt to get a policy that will only allow you to collect benefits that will cover your mortgage and utilities. Through Assurity, you can also get partial disability benefits paid if you return to work part-time. Best Disability Insurance for Self-employed Finding the best disability insurance depends on your specific needs, you own occupation definition and your company’s financial strength. You may even be turned down for business loans if you don’t have this type of insurance. Our best advice? Don’t wait until a disability occurs. Shop now using the links provided. How to Apply for Disability Insurance As you apply for disability insurance for self-employed individuals, you will undergo a couple of assessments. Be prepared to provide supporting documentation: Medical Exam – Not always, but may be required depending on the type of work you do and your age. Income Verification – You’ll need to provide documentation proving your income. Annual Household Income Replacement – If you are part of a two-income household, you can choose to receive lower benefits. An agent may request the total household income, including the percentage that you contribute, to help determine the amount of coverage you require. Your age and geographic location The type of work you do How much is self-employed disability insurance? Disability insurance tends to become more expensive as you age. Several factors influence the premium costs, including your profession, health status, age, income, the desired start date of the policy, and the duration for which the policy will remain active. Here are some round numbers: $23 to $36 a month for $800 coverage. $38 to $63 a month for $1500 coverage. $58 to $96 a month for $2,270 coverage. How Much Disability Insurance Coverage Do You Need? You need enough coverage to cover your basic expenses. You will need to manage your living expenses, including mortgage or rent, utilities, and food, which are typically covered by your earnings. Keep this in mind. According to Social Security Administration data, one out of five people will become disabled between the ages of 20 and 67. Of those, 90 percent of the disabilities will occur due to arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. What are the Requirements for Self-Employed Disability Insurance? You need to provide the necessary information, which includes your age, gender, family medical history, current height and weight, and results from blood and/or urine tests. A medical examination may also be required. If you have used tobacco in the past or are currently a user, some companies might deny you a policy. Alternatively, you may face significantly higher premiums. Is disability insurance for self employed tax deductible? No. The premiums you pay to a disability insurance company are not tax deductible. But, if you receive benefits, the benefits are tax free. Although disability insurance premiums don’t add the benefit of being tax-deductible, having a policy is essential. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Is There Disability Insurance for Self Employed?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

This type of engagement speaks to the interaction between readers, social media posts, videos, blog articles, and more. It takes different forms, like click-through rates, time spent on a page, comments, shares, and likes. If done right, it reaches its target audience, increases brand awareness, and leads to conversions and sales. Defining Content Engagement Engaging content is pivotal for small businesses looking to harness the power of digital platforms to reach their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. It’s not just about putting information out there; it’s about creating content that resonates with the audience, encourages interaction, and ultimately drives desired actions, such as sales, sign-ups, or social shares. Engagement is a critical metric that helps in evaluating the effectiveness of content marketing strategies by observing how readers interact with the content. Factors contributing to what constitutes engaging content include: Interactivity: Incorporating elements that prompt user action, such as: Polls and surveys that invite opinions or preferences. Sliders that users can interact with to view different pieces of content. Quizzes that provide personalized feedback or results. Content Completion: Evaluating the extent to which the audience engages with the content, as indicated by: Completion rates of videos indicate how many viewers watch them to the end. The percentage of readers who finish long-form articles or blog posts. Scroll Depth: Understanding how far users scroll through content, which helps in determining: The point at which most users stop reading, indicating potential areas for improvement. Which sections of the content are most engaging? User Experience: Ensuring the content is accessible and enjoyable to interact with, focusing on: Readability, ensuring text is easy to read both in terms of writing style and physical presentation. Navigation makes it easy for users to find what they’re looking for within the content or website. Load times, as faster loading content, are less likely to be abandoned. Responsive Design: Guaranteeing that content is accessible and aesthetically pleasing across all devices, especially mobile, considering: The increasing prevalence of mobile internet usage. The variety of screen sizes and resolutions for which content must be optimized. Visual Appeal: Using multimedia to enhance the content and capture attention through: High-quality images and graphics that complement the text. There are many places to find images online if you don’t want to take your own. Videos and animations that can explain concepts more effectively or provide a more dynamic user experience. Personalization: Tailoring content to meet the needs and interests of the target audience by: Segmenting content based on user demographics, interests, or past behavior. Providing recommendations for related content or products. Engaging content is a blend of these factors, designed to not only attract attention but to hold it, fostering a connection between the brand and its audience. By focusing on these elements, small businesses can create content that not only reaches their audience but resonates with them, encouraging interaction and engagement that supports business objectives. Tips to Create Engaging Content Here’s a list of tips for writing better content to help you create engaging posts that boost profits and drive sales. Understand Your Audience for Creating Engaging Content Understanding a target audience’s preferences and interests is essential for creating engaging content. Analytic tools like Facebook Insights and Twitter Analytics can help you gain a good understanding of their interests, behaviors, and other demographics. There are also many good sources for content inspiration that may offer insights into your industry and target market. SEMrush is an excellent keyword research tool. It helps uncover search trends to understand the topics and questions they use to search. Use Engaging Headlines to Attract Attention Blog posts and social media updates need to have compelling headlines. Ask a question that will interest a reader. An analyzing tool will help to make sure your headlines are SEO-optimized. Including numbers in your headlines (such as “10 tips for…”) attracts readers by providing an easy-to-read structure. Enhance Content Engagement with Visuals and Multimedia A multi-part campaign can enhance the power of infographics, videos and images on social media. Start with a short, compelling video as an introduction and then follow up with infographics. Images can be used as a compliment to the infographics to highlight quotes, facts and statistics. Use visual storytelling tips to bring these elements together with your written content. Create Interactive Content to Boost Engagement There are several different methods for making content interactive so you can collect valuable feedback, gauge your audience, and increase your retention. Blog Posts Tools like Google Forms can be utilized to add quizzes to your blog posts. By including questions at the end of your content, you can encourage readers to engage with the content engagement by leaving comments. Social Media A dedicated hashtag can be used to share user-generated content related to your small business. You can also host live Q&A sessions, boosting personal connections and engagement. Some of the best social media platforms include Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram. Canva is an excellent tool for creating infographics. Tell Stories to Engage Your Audience Personal stories boost engagement by making the text more impactful, memorable, and relatable. Sharing a startup owner’s journey in a blog post is a good example. Testimonials from customers can create a deep connection. Use real-life scenarios that showcase the benefits of a service or product. Everything needs to be authentic to boost your credibility. Authentic stories are a great way to boost discussions, shares, and comments. Keep It Concise, Clear, and Relevant Conciseness and relevance are two critical factors to keep an audience engaged. Concise content shows respect for the reader’s attention span. After you’ve written a draft, go through sentences and paragraphs and omit unnecessary details. Relevant content aligns with current trends and a target market’s interests and needs. Ongoing audience research makes sure content is on point. Use a Conversational Tone for Better Engagement Conversational content creates a sense of personal connection. It mimics human conversation. Use words like “you “ to make the content more personal. Encourage User Participation in Your Content Content generated from users is an excellent way to boost engagement. Readers can share tips, photos, and their own stories. Surveys and polls will give you direct feedback from your target market about what they’d like to see more of. Regularly Update Content to Maintain Engagement Engaging content needs to be regularly refreshed and updated. Customer preferences are constantly changing with new trends and developments. Regular audits can identify blog posts and pages that are underperforming. Set up a regular schedule for content creation. Optimize Content for Mobile to Enhance Accessibility Mobile optimization guarantees that content engagement is both captivating and easy to read, while also being accessible. Responsive design allows the layout, content, and visuals to adapt seamlessly to the screen size and resolution of any device. Leverage Social Proof to Increase Content Credibility User-generated content and testimonials enhance content engagement on social media platforms by building a sense of community. Additionally, they offer a rich source of authentic material for marketing purposes. Testimonials serve as a powerful tool for promoting social proof. Social proof influences customers by showing a product or service is valuable. Analyze Performance and Adapt Your Content Strategy Important engagement metrics include the following. The bounce rate is the number of visitors who leave your site after only visiting a page. The click-through rate is the percentage of people who click on an image, call to action, or link. The engagement rate is a metric measuring the interaction your content gets, considering the number of impressions and audience size. Utilize Internal Links to Enhance Engagement Internal links act like a guide through your website that keeps readers engaged. They improve your SEO performance. They make it easy for readers to find relevant information and navigate your website. Don’t skimp on them using generic phrases like “click here.” Something like “ “why plants thrive in low light” has more SEO juice than just “learn more.” Incorporate SEO Best Practices Search engine optimization (SEO) involves optimizing a website’s navigability and structure. It helps create content that captivates your audience and gets you a good ranking on search engine results pages (SERPS). Good content marketing campaigns keep SEO in mind. Implement relevant keywords. Remember that Google prioritizes high-quality, relevant content. When creating content, check out the Google Search Quality Guidelines. Foster a Community Around Your Content Building an online community is a great way to foster engagement. Creating opportunities so people can interact with your content and other visitors can be done through open-ended questions, challenges and polls. Providing exclusive content like a members-only newsletter offers a community something unique. Create Content That Resonates with Your Target Audience Content tailored to a target market’s interests and needs will maintain their interest and keep them engaged. The writing style should be conversational. Relevant content and content curation encourage interactions like comments, shares, and likes. This type of content leads to conversions like making purchases, signing up for a newsletter, or following through on a call to action. Tip NumberFocus AreaMain StrategyTools/Techniques SuggestedExpected Outcome 1Audience UnderstandingAnalyze audience preferences and interestsFacebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, SEMrushTailored content that resonates with the audience 2HeadlinesCraft compelling headlinesAnalyzing tools for SEOHigher attention and click-through rates 3Visuals and MultimediaUse visuals to enhance engagementInfographics, videos, imagesImproved engagement and information retention 4Interactive ContentMake content interactive for feedbackGoogle Forms, hashtags, live Q&AIncreased audience participation and feedback 5StorytellingUse personal stories to connectReal-life scenarios, testimonialsEnhanced relatability and engagement 6Content Clarity and RelevanceKeep content concise and relevantOngoing audience researchRespect for reader's time, improved engagement 7Conversational ToneUse a conversational stylePersonal pronouns like "you"Personal connection with the audience 8User ParticipationEncourage user-generated contentSurveys, polls, user storiesHigher engagement and community feeling 9Content UpdatesRegularly refresh contentContent audit, regular creation scheduleContinued relevance and engagement 10Mobile OptimizationOptimize content for mobile devicesResponsive designAccessible and engaging content on all devices 11Social ProofUse testimonials and user-generated contentTestimonials, user storiesIncreased credibility and trust 12Performance AnalysisMonitor and adapt based on engagement metricsBounce rate, click-through rate, engagement rateData-driven content strategy adjustments 13Internal LinkingUse internal links to keep readers engagedStrategic internal linkingImproved navigation and SEO performance 14SEO Best PracticesIncorporate SEO into content creationKeyword optimization, Google Search Quality GuidelinesBetter search engine visibility and engagement 15Community BuildingFoster an online community around contentOpen-ended questions, exclusive contentIncreased interaction and loyalty 16Resonant ContentCreate content that aligns with audience needsConversational writing style, relevancyHigh engagement leading to conversions Measuring Engaging Content Rates of Engagement This metric measures comments, shares, likes, and how actively involved your target market is. Likes This indicator is crucial because it signifies that someone is sharing the content. It acts as an endorsement, suggesting that the content is informative, entertaining, and valuable. Comments These represent direct audience feedback and deeper insights. They represent an interaction that requires more effort than likes or shares. https://youtube.com/watch?v=BhbP-hc_IfE%3Fsi%3DMfhhjoCcAdTZYNoQ Create Content that Engages: Boosting Your Digital Presence Engaging content is at the core of every digital marketing strategy. Providing valuable and relevant content encourages meaningful interactions and strengthens your brand. An effective content marketing strategy will get people to read your articles and ultimately increase sales. FAQs What is Content Engagement? Content engagement refers to how users interact and engage with online content. This encompasses activities such as reading, watching, clicking, sharing, commenting on, and reacting to content. A high level of engagement suggests that the content resonates effectively with the audience. How Can Content Engagement be Measured? Content engagement can be measured through various metrics such as page views, time spent on a page, social shares, comments, click-through rates, and conversion rates. Tools like Google Analytics, social media analytics, and other data-tracking platforms are used for this purpose. Why is Content Engagement Important for SEO? Content engagement is crucial for SEO as it signals to search engines that the content is valuable, relevant, and interesting to users. High engagement can lead to improved search rankings, increased visibility, and more traffic to a website. What Types of Content Typically Have High Engagement? Types of content that typically have high engagement include interactive content (quizzes, polls), visually appealing content (videos, infographics), storytelling, problem-solving content, and content that evokes emotions or offers value through tips, guides, and tutorials. How Can One Improve Content Engagement? Improving content engagement involves creating high-quality, relevant, and valuable content tailored to the target audience’s interests. Utilizing engaging formats, optimizing for user experience, promoting content across various platforms, and encouraging user interaction can also enhance engagement. What Role Does Social Media Play in Content Engagement? Social media plays a significant role in content engagement by providing platforms for content distribution and facilitating interactions between users and content. Sharing content on social media can increase visibility, drive traffic, and boost engagement through likes, shares, and comments. Are There Tools to Help Analyze Content Engagement? Yes, there are tools to help analyze content engagement. These include web analytics tools like Google Analytics, social media analytics tools, content management systems with built-in analytics, and specialized tools like BuzzSumo and Hotjar that offer insights into user behavior and engagement patterns. Image: Envato Elements This article, "What is Content Engagement? How to Improve It?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

This type of engagement speaks to the interaction between readers, social media posts, videos, blog articles, and more. It takes different forms, like click-through rates, time spent on a page, comments, shares, and likes. If done right, it reaches its target audience, increases brand awareness, and leads to conversions and sales. Defining Content Engagement Engaging content is pivotal for small businesses looking to harness the power of digital platforms to reach their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. It’s not just about putting information out there; it’s about creating content that resonates with the audience, encourages interaction, and ultimately drives desired actions, such as sales, sign-ups, or social shares. Engagement is a critical metric that helps in evaluating the effectiveness of content marketing strategies by observing how readers interact with the content. Factors contributing to what constitutes engaging content include: Interactivity: Incorporating elements that prompt user action, such as: Polls and surveys that invite opinions or preferences. Sliders that users can interact with to view different pieces of content. Quizzes that provide personalized feedback or results. Content Completion: Evaluating the extent to which the audience engages with the content, as indicated by: Completion rates of videos indicate how many viewers watch them to the end. The percentage of readers who finish long-form articles or blog posts. Scroll Depth: Understanding how far users scroll through content, which helps in determining: The point at which most users stop reading, indicating potential areas for improvement. Which sections of the content are most engaging? User Experience: Ensuring the content is accessible and enjoyable to interact with, focusing on: Readability, ensuring text is easy to read both in terms of writing style and physical presentation. Navigation makes it easy for users to find what they’re looking for within the content or website. Load times, as faster loading content, are less likely to be abandoned. Responsive Design: Guaranteeing that content is accessible and aesthetically pleasing across all devices, especially mobile, considering: The increasing prevalence of mobile internet usage. The variety of screen sizes and resolutions for which content must be optimized. Visual Appeal: Using multimedia to enhance the content and capture attention through: High-quality images and graphics that complement the text. There are many places to find images online if you don’t want to take your own. Videos and animations that can explain concepts more effectively or provide a more dynamic user experience. Personalization: Tailoring content to meet the needs and interests of the target audience by: Segmenting content based on user demographics, interests, or past behavior. Providing recommendations for related content or products. Engaging content is a blend of these factors, designed to not only attract attention but to hold it, fostering a connection between the brand and its audience. By focusing on these elements, small businesses can create content that not only reaches their audience but resonates with them, encouraging interaction and engagement that supports business objectives. Tips to Create Engaging Content Here’s a list of tips for writing better content to help you create engaging posts that boost profits and drive sales. Understand Your Audience for Creating Engaging Content Understanding a target audience’s preferences and interests is essential for creating engaging content. Analytic tools like Facebook Insights and Twitter Analytics can help you gain a good understanding of their interests, behaviors, and other demographics. There are also many good sources for content inspiration that may offer insights into your industry and target market. SEMrush is an excellent keyword research tool. It helps uncover search trends to understand the topics and questions they use to search. Use Engaging Headlines to Attract Attention Blog posts and social media updates need to have compelling headlines. Ask a question that will interest a reader. An analyzing tool will help to make sure your headlines are SEO-optimized. Including numbers in your headlines (such as “10 tips for…”) attracts readers by providing an easy-to-read structure. Enhance Content Engagement with Visuals and Multimedia A multi-part campaign can enhance the power of infographics, videos and images on social media. Start with a short, compelling video as an introduction and then follow up with infographics. Images can be used as a compliment to the infographics to highlight quotes, facts and statistics. Use visual storytelling tips to bring these elements together with your written content. Create Interactive Content to Boost Engagement There are several different methods for making content interactive so you can collect valuable feedback, gauge your audience, and increase your retention. Blog Posts Tools like Google Forms can be utilized to add quizzes to your blog posts. By including questions at the end of your content, you can encourage readers to engage with the content engagement by leaving comments. Social Media A dedicated hashtag can be used to share user-generated content related to your small business. You can also host live Q&A sessions, boosting personal connections and engagement. Some of the best social media platforms include Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram. Canva is an excellent tool for creating infographics. Tell Stories to Engage Your Audience Personal stories boost engagement by making the text more impactful, memorable, and relatable. Sharing a startup owner’s journey in a blog post is a good example. Testimonials from customers can create a deep connection. Use real-life scenarios that showcase the benefits of a service or product. Everything needs to be authentic to boost your credibility. Authentic stories are a great way to boost discussions, shares, and comments. Keep It Concise, Clear, and Relevant Conciseness and relevance are two critical factors to keep an audience engaged. Concise content shows respect for the reader’s attention span. After you’ve written a draft, go through sentences and paragraphs and omit unnecessary details. Relevant content aligns with current trends and a target market’s interests and needs. Ongoing audience research makes sure content is on point. Use a Conversational Tone for Better Engagement Conversational content creates a sense of personal connection. It mimics human conversation. Use words like “you “ to make the content more personal. Encourage User Participation in Your Content Content generated from users is an excellent way to boost engagement. Readers can share tips, photos, and their own stories. Surveys and polls will give you direct feedback from your target market about what they’d like to see more of. Regularly Update Content to Maintain Engagement Engaging content needs to be regularly refreshed and updated. Customer preferences are constantly changing with new trends and developments. Regular audits can identify blog posts and pages that are underperforming. Set up a regular schedule for content creation. Optimize Content for Mobile to Enhance Accessibility Mobile optimization guarantees that content engagement is both captivating and easy to read, while also being accessible. Responsive design allows the layout, content, and visuals to adapt seamlessly to the screen size and resolution of any device. Leverage Social Proof to Increase Content Credibility User-generated content and testimonials enhance content engagement on social media platforms by building a sense of community. Additionally, they offer a rich source of authentic material for marketing purposes. Testimonials serve as a powerful tool for promoting social proof. Social proof influences customers by showing a product or service is valuable. Analyze Performance and Adapt Your Content Strategy Important engagement metrics include the following. The bounce rate is the number of visitors who leave your site after only visiting a page. The click-through rate is the percentage of people who click on an image, call to action, or link. The engagement rate is a metric measuring the interaction your content gets, considering the number of impressions and audience size. Utilize Internal Links to Enhance Engagement Internal links act like a guide through your website that keeps readers engaged. They improve your SEO performance. They make it easy for readers to find relevant information and navigate your website. Don’t skimp on them using generic phrases like “click here.” Something like “ “why plants thrive in low light” has more SEO juice than just “learn more.” Incorporate SEO Best Practices Search engine optimization (SEO) involves optimizing a website’s navigability and structure. It helps create content that captivates your audience and gets you a good ranking on search engine results pages (SERPS). Good content marketing campaigns keep SEO in mind. Implement relevant keywords. Remember that Google prioritizes high-quality, relevant content. When creating content, check out the Google Search Quality Guidelines. Foster a Community Around Your Content Building an online community is a great way to foster engagement. Creating opportunities so people can interact with your content and other visitors can be done through open-ended questions, challenges and polls. Providing exclusive content like a members-only newsletter offers a community something unique. Create Content That Resonates with Your Target Audience Content tailored to a target market’s interests and needs will maintain their interest and keep them engaged. The writing style should be conversational. Relevant content and content curation encourage interactions like comments, shares, and likes. This type of content leads to conversions like making purchases, signing up for a newsletter, or following through on a call to action. Tip NumberFocus AreaMain StrategyTools/Techniques SuggestedExpected Outcome 1Audience UnderstandingAnalyze audience preferences and interestsFacebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, SEMrushTailored content that resonates with the audience 2HeadlinesCraft compelling headlinesAnalyzing tools for SEOHigher attention and click-through rates 3Visuals and MultimediaUse visuals to enhance engagementInfographics, videos, imagesImproved engagement and information retention 4Interactive ContentMake content interactive for feedbackGoogle Forms, hashtags, live Q&AIncreased audience participation and feedback 5StorytellingUse personal stories to connectReal-life scenarios, testimonialsEnhanced relatability and engagement 6Content Clarity and RelevanceKeep content concise and relevantOngoing audience researchRespect for reader's time, improved engagement 7Conversational ToneUse a conversational stylePersonal pronouns like "you"Personal connection with the audience 8User ParticipationEncourage user-generated contentSurveys, polls, user storiesHigher engagement and community feeling 9Content UpdatesRegularly refresh contentContent audit, regular creation scheduleContinued relevance and engagement 10Mobile OptimizationOptimize content for mobile devicesResponsive designAccessible and engaging content on all devices 11Social ProofUse testimonials and user-generated contentTestimonials, user storiesIncreased credibility and trust 12Performance AnalysisMonitor and adapt based on engagement metricsBounce rate, click-through rate, engagement rateData-driven content strategy adjustments 13Internal LinkingUse internal links to keep readers engagedStrategic internal linkingImproved navigation and SEO performance 14SEO Best PracticesIncorporate SEO into content creationKeyword optimization, Google Search Quality GuidelinesBetter search engine visibility and engagement 15Community BuildingFoster an online community around contentOpen-ended questions, exclusive contentIncreased interaction and loyalty 16Resonant ContentCreate content that aligns with audience needsConversational writing style, relevancyHigh engagement leading to conversions Measuring Engaging Content Rates of Engagement This metric measures comments, shares, likes, and how actively involved your target market is. Likes This indicator is crucial because it signifies that someone is sharing the content. It acts as an endorsement, suggesting that the content is informative, entertaining, and valuable. Comments These represent direct audience feedback and deeper insights. They represent an interaction that requires more effort than likes or shares. https://youtube.com/watch?v=BhbP-hc_IfE%3Fsi%3DMfhhjoCcAdTZYNoQ Create Content that Engages: Boosting Your Digital Presence Engaging content is at the core of every digital marketing strategy. Providing valuable and relevant content encourages meaningful interactions and strengthens your brand. An effective content marketing strategy will get people to read your articles and ultimately increase sales. FAQs What is Content Engagement? Content engagement refers to how users interact and engage with online content. This encompasses activities such as reading, watching, clicking, sharing, commenting on, and reacting to content. A high level of engagement suggests that the content resonates effectively with the audience. How Can Content Engagement be Measured? Content engagement can be measured through various metrics such as page views, time spent on a page, social shares, comments, click-through rates, and conversion rates. Tools like Google Analytics, social media analytics, and other data-tracking platforms are used for this purpose. Why is Content Engagement Important for SEO? Content engagement is crucial for SEO as it signals to search engines that the content is valuable, relevant, and interesting to users. High engagement can lead to improved search rankings, increased visibility, and more traffic to a website. What Types of Content Typically Have High Engagement? Types of content that typically have high engagement include interactive content (quizzes, polls), visually appealing content (videos, infographics), storytelling, problem-solving content, and content that evokes emotions or offers value through tips, guides, and tutorials. How Can One Improve Content Engagement? Improving content engagement involves creating high-quality, relevant, and valuable content tailored to the target audience’s interests. Utilizing engaging formats, optimizing for user experience, promoting content across various platforms, and encouraging user interaction can also enhance engagement. What Role Does Social Media Play in Content Engagement? Social media plays a significant role in content engagement by providing platforms for content distribution and facilitating interactions between users and content. Sharing content on social media can increase visibility, drive traffic, and boost engagement through likes, shares, and comments. Are There Tools to Help Analyze Content Engagement? Yes, there are tools to help analyze content engagement. These include web analytics tools like Google Analytics, social media analytics tools, content management systems with built-in analytics, and specialized tools like BuzzSumo and Hotjar that offer insights into user behavior and engagement patterns. Image: Envato Elements This article, "What is Content Engagement? How to Improve It?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google is testing removing the numbers from the pagination menu at the footer of the Google Search results page. The normal pagination bar shows the page number you are on, the test just shows a next button.View the full article

AI overviews in SERPs: a challenge or opportunity for ecommerce site owners? Ecommerce expert, Kevin Gibbons shares his insights. The post Ask An SEO: How Should Ecommerce Stores Deal With The Arrival Of AI Overviews? appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

In December, Y Combinator’s first-ever Fall batch got their own Demo Day. The Silicon Valley-based startup accelerator—which has produced big hits like Airbnb, Doordash, and Stripe—had doubled the number of startup classes that could enter its program. The showing was mixed: 87% were AI companies, and few have yet to publicly disclose their seeds. Undoubtedly the most prestigious hub of Silicon Valley’s startup culture, YC’s outside critics have grown in their ranks. They have many sore spots to point to: increased batches, diminished seed rounds, more duplicate companies, less specialized training, and the list goes on. But, from the inside, it’s rare to hear a YC founder complain about their experience. The deal ($125,000 for 7% of the company, plus a $375,000 SAFE note, extensive mentorship, and physical office space) remains highly sought after. YC’s acceptance rate is still a mere 1%. So, what’s with the shift in energy? It’s hard to tell—but the change has been immediate. “From the entrepreneur’s perspective, the core base of Y Combinator has diluted,” says Arpita Agnihotri, an associate professor of management at the Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg. “The excitement has definitely reduced.” ‘It’s just so many companies’ Like a university, YC has its own specialized application process, where it chooses which startups to accept into its class (or “batch”). These batches are remarkably successful; where the average startup failure rate is around 90%, YC’s is an estimated 18%. 5.5% of YC startups become unicorns; the summed value of YC’s graduates is over $600 billion. In YC’s early days, there were only two batches a year, and they remained small. In 2009, when Airbnb and Stripe went through, YC’s two cohorts hosted a summed 42 companies. But then things got out of hand; the 2022 winter batch had 400 companies. New CEO Garry Tan took action to reduce batch sizes, though they remain relatively large. He also introduced two additional cohorts in the fall and spring, creating a more distributed schedule. But this reconfiguration comes with its own challenges: Two more classes of entrepreneurs for investors to consider, and two more Demo Days for them to attend. Masha Bucher, CEO of Day One Ventures, has invested in 35 companies out of YC within the past six years. Eight of those companies have been acquired. She slowed her investments during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she saw the quality of YC’s choice in firms go down. But she’s been happy under Garry Tan—even if she wishes he’d cut down the number of participating firms. “I want batches to be smaller, because it’s a bit overwhelming,” Bucher says. “It’s just so many companies and, as a result of it, you dedicate less time for every single opportunity.” At one recent Demo Day, Bucher noticed that many more founders were surrounded by angel investors than venture capitalists, a sign that valuations have gotten too high for VC firms and left founders reliant on smaller-dollar investors. To Bucher, greater exclusivity could be the solution. While smaller (or fewer) cohorts would saddle YC with more risk, it could also coax back these VCs, proving that the high valuations are worth it. “This change makes it easier for YC to support founders when they’re ready, instead of making them wait for the next application cycle,” a YC spokesperson wrote in an email to Fast Company. “The batch sizes are smaller now—about half the size of the old cohorts. So even with more cohorts, the total number of startups we fund each year stays the same.” ‘Not everybody is hopeful of being the star’ AI startup Artisan sparked outrage in 2024 for its provocative San Francisco ads: “Stop Hiring Humans.” But, among the YC heads, Artisan is a golden child. They’re one of the biggest raisers among the winter 2024 batch, having collected around $12 million in seed funding. The company’s CEO, Jaspar Carmichael-Jack, was confident in his ability to court investors far before he joined YC, but credits the accelerator with bringing “brand awareness.” Artisan’s $12 million seed ranks them among the declining number of YC firms who aim for bigger seeds. Among its cohort, AI-powered legal software Leya was the only other firm to publicly break $10 million. Some others made it around $5 million; more landed closer to $2 million or below. For many, it looks like the seed rounds of YC-stamped firms are in decline. “A lot of people end up raising $2-3 million and sometimes that’s enough, but sometimes it’s not,” says Amy Cheetham, a partner at Costanoa Ventures who estimates that 10–15% of the companies that come across her desk are from YC. “What I always tell people is to make sure that they’re really thoughtful about not under capitalizing their business coming out of [YC].” For those rare big raisers, it’s common to bring big investors on board before even applying for YC. Artisan collected $2.3 million in pre-seed funding. Lumen Orbit, a space datacenter startup that now boasts a staggering $11 million seed, amassed $2.4 million beforehand. Its CEO Philip Johnston says he thinks of the seed as a “small Series A,” and claims that the big raise was necessary because of the company’s hardware focus. Taking on gobs of money out of YC may not be the best move for founders. At a minimum, it lessens the chances for future catastrophic down rounds. YC has also been a haven for “little tech,” the smaller, more technically oriented companies that are not looking to be the next Airbnb or Stripe. Saurabh Bhattacharya, a reader in digital marketing at Newcastle University Business School, notes the importance of these companies: “Not everybody is hopeful of being the star startup.” “YC encourages founders to raise only the capital they need,” a YC spokesperson wrote. “With advancements in AI, startups are increasingly able to achieve more significant milestones with less funding. This approach not only enables rapid progress but also minimizes founder dilution, allowing them to retain more control of their companies.” ‘Multiple horses in the same race’ When Demo Day arrives, a founder’s success often hinges on their company’s individuality. But as YC continues to accept similar startups—some of which directly overlap—standing out has become increasingly difficult. Concerns about company duplication flared up in fall 2024 when an AI code-editing scandal shook the accelerator. New YC inductee Pear AI, which promised to create “VSCode for The New Age of AI,” came under fire for altering the open-source license of Continue—another YC-backed startup. Many saw it as a blatant case of copying. (Pear AI did not respond to an interview request.) Even when direct imitation isn’t an issue, many startups find themselves with near-identical counterparts within the accelerator. Using the AlphaLens tool, Léopold Gasteen analyzed 4,938 YC startups and identified numerous look-alikes. “[YC] conducts a whole bunch of concurrent experiments,” Gasteen says. “What’s clear to me is that they don’t mind having multiple horses in the same race.” Are founders uncomfortable with having a duplicate within YC? Fast Company reached out to several of them; only two were willing to speak on the record. Cossi Achille Arouko, founder of Africa-based Bujeti, doesn’t mind sharing space with Middle East-based Alaan, which also runs a corporate expense management platform. He’s “spent so much time [with the Alaan team] that we are all friends,” he says. Similarly, Flock Safety and Abel Police were flagged as look-alikes for their AI-driven crime footage uploads, but Abel CEO Daniel Francis dismisses concerns. They’re not a “competing product,” he says; if anything, Flock Safety has only helped his business. YC maintains that it prioritizes “founders over ideas” and sees competition as an unavoidable byproduct of innovation. But Artisan CEO Carmichael-Jack admits he only applied to YC because his company filled a niche within the accelerator. “If I was doing an HR platform, dealing with [YC companies] Gusto and Rippling, I probably wouldn’t do YC,” he says. “Because, are you really going to become the category leader over them?” ‘A whole bunch of B2B SaaS businesses’ YC only has one guiding principle for companies: “Make something people want.” But, on the inside, the types of companies that succeed within the accelerator’s walls may be more unified. “One of the criticisms of YC is that it’s turned into a whole bunch of B2B SaaS businesses sitting around selling their stuff to each other,” says Ryan Wardell, the cofounder of StartupSauce, a digital community of SaaS entrepreneurs. “How much help are you actually getting to move outside into the real world and sell to actual companies that are outside the YC ecosystem?” Fast Company asked every YC founder interviewed for this piece whether there was a certain “type” of company that succeeds within the accelerator. Most demurred, citing a low fail rate or positive personal experiences. Lumen Orbit’s Johnson acknowledged the stereotype that YC was built for “young B2B SaaS founders,” but insisted that YC’s advantages move in “waves and trends.” Artisan’s Carmichael-Jack, though, was unusually blunt. “I wouldn’t do Y Combinator if we were a consumer company,” he says. “The value that we got from YC was specifically from being a B2B company.” ‘How much value does the actual accelerator program provide?’ When YC was founded in 2005, Silicon Valley was a smaller, more insular community. For tech founders, the accelerator’s mentorship provided a crucial entry point—offering access to the right investors and influential networks. Twenty years later, the landscape has changed. Capital is more accessible, and any startup generating revenue can find a seat at the table. This shift raises a pressing question: Is YC’s training still worth it? “How much value does the actual accelerator program provide?” Wardell asks. “If Y Combinator just picked out the top 1.5% of startups and said, ‘We think these ones are good, you should invest in them,’ and then they got out of the way, I think their success or failure rate would probably be identical to what it is now.” While YC continues to thrive, the accelerator space has encountered some turbulence. Newchip, once an Austin-based competitor to YC, filed for bankruptcy in 2023. Meanwhile, Techstars closed its Boulder, Seattle, and Austin operations. Those hiccups have led some to speculate that accelerators might eventually drop or reduce their mentorship programs. YC’s value, they argue, might lie primarily in its stamp of approval; guidance would take a secondary role. Agnihotri, the Penn State professor, sees the diminished training as a trade-off with the high number of companies. What startups gain from a wider network, they lose in mentorship. “When you have large batch sizes, then you cannot have customized solutions to the problems that startups are facing,” she says. Y Combinator, for its part, insists its 21 full-time and visiting partners can adequately mentor the founders they take on. “Founders are getting just as much, if not more, support than ever,” a YC representative wrote. View the full article

With proposed tariffs on homebuilding materials working looming and a cloudy forecast for mortgage rates, young homebuyers are facing increased volatility. View the full article

What is a 1099 form, and how is it used? Most U.S.-based business owners have issued 1099 tax forms to independent contractors, keeping them in compliance with the Internal Revenue Service. However, there are several other scenarios in which a small business owner would issue or receive a type of 1099. Do you know the 1099 rules? Are you curious about who should get a 1099 form, how to issue one, or what rules apply in different scenarios? In this article, we’ll provide the answers to these questions about 1099 forms and more. What Is a 1099 Form? The 1099 form, issued by the Internal Revenue Service in the United States, serves several specific purposes, each with a different variant of the form. Some of these include: Form 1099-MISC: This version is issued when a business pays a non-employee more than $600 in a year. It’s often used for independent contractors, freelancers, or other non-employee workers. Form 1099-INT: This version is for reporting interest income, for instance from a bank or other financial institution. Form 1099-DIV: This version reports dividend payments made by corporations to their shareholders. Just as businesses use W2 forms to report wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees, 1099 forms are used to report different types of income received by individuals or entities. The use of these forms assists the IRS in ensuring accurate tax reporting and payment, while enabling individuals and entities to accurately determine their tax liabilities based on their total annual income. Despite the similarities with W2, a key distinction is that 1099 forms don’t account for any tax withholdings, as taxes are typically not withheld from the types of income these forms report. READ MORE: Basics ABout 1099 forms for Small Business Owners What Types of Income Payments Are Reported on a 1099 Form? While 1099 forms often are associated with income paid to independent contractors, they also can be used to report a variety of other income payments and miscellaneous income. Some of the more common types of income payments reported on a 1099 include (but aren’t limited to): Non-employee compensation Rent or royalty payments State or local tax refunds Gambling winnings Brokerage gains or losses Dividends and interest payments Commissions Non-qualified deferred compensation Medical and healthcare payments Prizes and awards Crop insurance proceeds Fishing boat proceeds What Are the Types of 1099 Forms? A 1099 might be a common IRS form, but it’s available in multiple versions. A few of the most common types of 1099 forms include: 1099-NEC reports nonemployee compensation such as income earned as an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual. 1099-MISC reports payments like rent, royalties, prizes and awards, substitute payments in lieu of dividends, medical and health care payments and crop insurance proceeds. 1099-INT reports interest payments from banks, brokerage firms, and other investment firms. 1099-DIV reports payments to investors, including cash dividends. 1099-G reports unemployment payments or local tax refunds. 1099-R reports payments from taxable pension retirement plans or individual retirement accounts (IRAs), as well as certain life insurance plans and annuities. 1099-B reports income from commodities, stock sales, certain types of bartering, and other securities. 1099-S reports real estate transactions that gain money, including the sales of land, residential properties, and commercial or industrial properties. 1099-K reports payments received through reportable payment card transactions of third-party payment network transactions. These include sources like PayPal and Venmo. 1099 for Digital Payments With the rise of digital payment platforms like PayPal and Venmo, businesses must be aware of the 1099 reporting requirements for transactions made through these services. The IRS requires reporting for business-related digital payments that exceed specific thresholds. For instance, if transactions surpass $600, they may necessitate a 1099 form. This requirement calls for businesses to stay updated on the tax implications of digital transactions and ensure compliance with these evolving IRS guidelines. Ultimately, providers like PayPal may be required to issue a 1099-K for all users earning more than $600. However, that requirement has been postponed again, and they are thus only required to issue the form to users earning more than $20,000 with at least 200 transactions. READ MORE: How to File Self Employment Taxes What Common 1099 Rules Must a Business Owner Follow? Like many other aspects of filing income taxes in the United States, 1099 forms have undergone their share of changes in recent years, so it’s important for a small business owner to keep abreast of the newest applicable rules, such as the following: New Forms Beginning with a recent tax period, the IRS reintroduced the 1099-NEC, which hadn’t been used for decades. Prior to this change, payments to non-employees such as independent contractors, which were subject to self-employment taxes, were reported on a 1099-MISC. Such income is now reported on a 1099-NEC. $600 Threshold Businesses are required to send copies of Form 1099-NEC to the IRS and contractors if they pay $600 or more in compensation. The $600 threshold also applies to other 1099 forms to report payments such as non-qualified deferred compensation, crop insurance proceeds, rent, prizes, and more. Taxpayers who earn less than $600 usually are still required to report the income with their tax obligations, even if they did not receive a 1099. Dates and Deadlines Businesses must supply 1099 to contractors and vendors and file a copy with the IRS by Jan. 31. However, if that date falls on a weekend, the due date is the following Monday. Some types of 1099 forms require IRS filing by Feb. 28, but copies should still be furnished to recipients by Jan. 31. Foreign Workers If you hire a non-U.S. citizen who works remotely via the Internet from another country, generally speaking, you do not need to file a 1099 for that person. However, if the foreign worker performs any work inside the United States, you would need to file the 1099. Payments to Corporations Businesses usually do not need to issue 1099 forms for payments made to corporations. For example, if paying a corporation that provides web design services or some other business service, they do not need to issue a 1099. This can include independent contracts operating as an S Corp, as well. However, it’s important to remember that an LLC, or limited liability company, is not the same as a corporation. In general, an entity is expected to send 1099 forms to most small business LLCs. PayPal and Credit Card Payments In most cases, businesses are not required to send 1099 forms to independent contractors or unincorporated businesses if they were paid electronically via PayPal or credit cards. Instead, the credit card companies and payment companies will handle any required reporting. Personal Payments 1099 forms are not required for personal payments. Entities are required to issue 1099-MISC reports only for payments made in the course of doing a trade or business. If you run a non-profit organization, however, that’s considered a business for purposes of 1099s. 1099 Errors A payer who identifies an error after issuing a 1099 form must re-issue a corrected version to the payee and update the filing with the IRS. If a payee receives a 1099 that contains an error, they should reach out to the payer to request a correction. If the form cannot be amended, the payee must attach an explanation to their tax return and accurately report the income. Record-Keeping and Compliance Maintaining accurate records is vital for adhering to 1099 compliance. Businesses need to track all payments to contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees throughout the year. Proper documentation is key, including detailed logs of payments and retaining copies of contracts and work orders. Timely filing of 1099 forms and accurate reporting of payment amounts are crucial for smooth tax processing and avoiding any penalties from the IRS. READ MORE: Best Tax Software for Self-Employed People How to Issue and File 1099 Forms Issuing and filing a 1099 form is simple once the payer has the proper information. To fill out a 1099 form, a business needs four pieces of information: Payer’s information Payee’s information Nonemployee compensation amount Tax information, such as Social Security number or tax ID number The first box of the 1099-NEC contains the information on the paying business. There is only one box for this information, and you must include your name and business name, street address and phone number. The second section of the 1099-NEC is for the paid contractor’s information. To obtain this, the payer will send the payee a W-9 form requesting their name, address, and taxpayer identification number. However, if the contractor is not a U.S. resident, the payer will need a W-8BEN or W-8BEN to certify that they reside outside the country. After a business fills out these sections, it needs only to input the compensation amount that the contractor received during the tax year. After completing the 1099 form, make sure to verify the state 1099 form requirements. Some states mandate the submission of forms, while others do not. To comply with federal regulations, the business must send two copies: one to the IRS and one to the payee, ensuring that both reach their destinations by January 31. Detailed filing procedures for each of these copies can be found on the first page of the 1099 form. A new online portal from the IRS, called the Information Return Intake System, enables users to create and file 1099 forms. READ MORE: Don’t Forget This New Tax Rule for Small Business 1099 Related Penalties Businesses that fail to issue a 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC by the filing deadline could face penalties ranging from $50 to $280 per form for the current tax year, depending on how late the form was submitted. Businesses that intentionally disregard a payee’s request to correct 1099 with errors can be subject to a minimum penalty of $570 per form, or 10% of the income reported on the form, with no maximum. Automating 1099 Processes The advent of technology has made managing 1099 forms more efficient. Many modern accounting software solutions offer features to automate the generation, filing, and tracking of 1099 forms. This automation enhances accuracy, saves time, and reduces administrative burdens. When choosing a 1099 automation tool, consider factors like integration with existing accounting systems, e-filing capabilities, and secure data handling. This technological shift is reshaping how businesses handle their 1099 processes, offering a more streamlined approach to financial management. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_yHPIvtiKjs%3Fsi%3D07wWf0OfVlIZeMTr FAQ What If You Don’t Receive a 1099? Taxpayers earning qualified income should receive a 1099 form from the payer no later than early February, but what happens when they don’t? The first step to take if a 1099 isn’t received is to contact the payer. If it’s still not received by Feb. 15, the party should call the IRS for help at 1-800-829-1040. Regardless of whether a 1099 is received, the taxpayer is still required to report the income on their tax return. This can often be done by obtaining the information from alternative sources, such as bank statements. What Is an Author’s Income Threshold for Book Royalties? Royalties paid to an artist, such as an author, musician, songwriter, or singer, are considered taxable income. Whether or not those royalties are subject to self-employment tax depends largely on whether the artist is a professional or a hobbyist. The United States Tax Code requires publishers to report royalties paid that exceed $10 in Form 1099-MISC. What are Other income payments considered on a 1099? Form 1099-MISC is used to report payments categorized as “other” than nonemployee compensation made by a trade or business to individuals or entities. This “other” income can include payments for rent, royalties, prizes, and awards, as well as substitute payments made in place of dividends. The 1099-MISC form includes a section for payments that do not fit into its specified categories, which is labeled as “other income.” This is where a business will report payments of $600 or more made for activities including participation in a medical research study, monetary prizes or awards, termination of self-employed insurance salespeople and punitive damages, damages for nonphysical injuries or sickness and any other taxable damages. How Do You Report Interest Income to the IRS? Most interest that taxpayers can withdraw without incurring a penalty is regarded as taxable income by the IRS, although there are some exceptions. Interest recipients should receive Copy B of form 1099-INT or form 1099-OID, which report taxable or tax-exempt interest payments of $10 or more. These forms are typically issued by a broker as part of a composite statement. Interest earners must report all taxable and tax-exempt interest on their federal income tax returns, whether or not they receive a Form 1099. Where Can You Get 1099 Forms? Blank 1099 forms are available from a variety of convenient locations. Businesses can get paper copies at many post offices, public libraries and even office supply stores. They also can request 1099 forms from the IRS, which can be mailed to them in paper form or downloaded to print. However, it’s important to know the correct 1099 form to request. A new IRS online portal, known as the Information Return Intake System allows users to electronically create and file 1099 forms. Some accounting and tax-preparation software services also will prepare, print and file certain 1099 forms, such as the 1099-NEC. An accountant or tax preparer can also e-file 1099 forms together with a business’s tax returns. It’s important to note that if a business is required to file more than 250 1099s, it must do so electronically. Businesses that do not comply and lack an approved waiver may face penalties of up to $100 for each return. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Form 1099 Rules for Employers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

What is a 1099 form, and how is it used? Most U.S.-based business owners have issued 1099 tax forms to independent contractors, keeping them in compliance with the Internal Revenue Service. However, there are several other scenarios in which a small business owner would issue or receive a type of 1099. Do you know the 1099 rules? Are you curious about who should get a 1099 form, how to issue one, or what rules apply in different scenarios? In this article, we’ll provide the answers to these questions about 1099 forms and more. What Is a 1099 Form? The 1099 form, issued by the Internal Revenue Service in the United States, serves several specific purposes, each with a different variant of the form. Some of these include: Form 1099-MISC: This version is issued when a business pays a non-employee more than $600 in a year. It’s often used for independent contractors, freelancers, or other non-employee workers. Form 1099-INT: This version is for reporting interest income, for instance from a bank or other financial institution. Form 1099-DIV: This version reports dividend payments made by corporations to their shareholders. Just as businesses use W2 forms to report wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees, 1099 forms are used to report different types of income received by individuals or entities. The use of these forms assists the IRS in ensuring accurate tax reporting and payment, while enabling individuals and entities to accurately determine their tax liabilities based on their total annual income. Despite the similarities with W2, a key distinction is that 1099 forms don’t account for any tax withholdings, as taxes are typically not withheld from the types of income these forms report. READ MORE: Basics ABout 1099 forms for Small Business Owners What Types of Income Payments Are Reported on a 1099 Form? While 1099 forms often are associated with income paid to independent contractors, they also can be used to report a variety of other income payments and miscellaneous income. Some of the more common types of income payments reported on a 1099 include (but aren’t limited to): Non-employee compensation Rent or royalty payments State or local tax refunds Gambling winnings Brokerage gains or losses Dividends and interest payments Commissions Non-qualified deferred compensation Medical and healthcare payments Prizes and awards Crop insurance proceeds Fishing boat proceeds What Are the Types of 1099 Forms? A 1099 might be a common IRS form, but it’s available in multiple versions. A few of the most common types of 1099 forms include: 1099-NEC reports nonemployee compensation such as income earned as an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual. 1099-MISC reports payments like rent, royalties, prizes and awards, substitute payments in lieu of dividends, medical and health care payments and crop insurance proceeds. 1099-INT reports interest payments from banks, brokerage firms, and other investment firms. 1099-DIV reports payments to investors, including cash dividends. 1099-G reports unemployment payments or local tax refunds. 1099-R reports payments from taxable pension retirement plans or individual retirement accounts (IRAs), as well as certain life insurance plans and annuities. 1099-B reports income from commodities, stock sales, certain types of bartering, and other securities. 1099-S reports real estate transactions that gain money, including the sales of land, residential properties, and commercial or industrial properties. 1099-K reports payments received through reportable payment card transactions of third-party payment network transactions. These include sources like PayPal and Venmo. 1099 for Digital Payments With the rise of digital payment platforms like PayPal and Venmo, businesses must be aware of the 1099 reporting requirements for transactions made through these services. The IRS requires reporting for business-related digital payments that exceed specific thresholds. For instance, if transactions surpass $600, they may necessitate a 1099 form. This requirement calls for businesses to stay updated on the tax implications of digital transactions and ensure compliance with these evolving IRS guidelines. Ultimately, providers like PayPal may be required to issue a 1099-K for all users earning more than $600. However, that requirement has been postponed again, and they are thus only required to issue the form to users earning more than $20,000 with at least 200 transactions. READ MORE: How to File Self Employment Taxes What Common 1099 Rules Must a Business Owner Follow? Like many other aspects of filing income taxes in the United States, 1099 forms have undergone their share of changes in recent years, so it’s important for a small business owner to keep abreast of the newest applicable rules, such as the following: New Forms Beginning with a recent tax period, the IRS reintroduced the 1099-NEC, which hadn’t been used for decades. Prior to this change, payments to non-employees such as independent contractors, which were subject to self-employment taxes, were reported on a 1099-MISC. Such income is now reported on a 1099-NEC. $600 Threshold Businesses are required to send copies of Form 1099-NEC to the IRS and contractors if they pay $600 or more in compensation. The $600 threshold also applies to other 1099 forms to report payments such as non-qualified deferred compensation, crop insurance proceeds, rent, prizes, and more. Taxpayers who earn less than $600 usually are still required to report the income with their tax obligations, even if they did not receive a 1099. Dates and Deadlines Businesses must supply 1099 to contractors and vendors and file a copy with the IRS by Jan. 31. However, if that date falls on a weekend, the due date is the following Monday. Some types of 1099 forms require IRS filing by Feb. 28, but copies should still be furnished to recipients by Jan. 31. Foreign Workers If you hire a non-U.S. citizen who works remotely via the Internet from another country, generally speaking, you do not need to file a 1099 for that person. However, if the foreign worker performs any work inside the United States, you would need to file the 1099. Payments to Corporations Businesses usually do not need to issue 1099 forms for payments made to corporations. For example, if paying a corporation that provides web design services or some other business service, they do not need to issue a 1099. This can include independent contracts operating as an S Corp, as well. However, it’s important to remember that an LLC, or limited liability company, is not the same as a corporation. In general, an entity is expected to send 1099 forms to most small business LLCs. PayPal and Credit Card Payments In most cases, businesses are not required to send 1099 forms to independent contractors or unincorporated businesses if they were paid electronically via PayPal or credit cards. Instead, the credit card companies and payment companies will handle any required reporting. Personal Payments 1099 forms are not required for personal payments. Entities are required to issue 1099-MISC reports only for payments made in the course of doing a trade or business. If you run a non-profit organization, however, that’s considered a business for purposes of 1099s. 1099 Errors A payer who identifies an error after issuing a 1099 form must re-issue a corrected version to the payee and update the filing with the IRS. If a payee receives a 1099 that contains an error, they should reach out to the payer to request a correction. If the form cannot be amended, the payee must attach an explanation to their tax return and accurately report the income. Record-Keeping and Compliance Maintaining accurate records is vital for adhering to 1099 compliance. Businesses need to track all payments to contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees throughout the year. Proper documentation is key, including detailed logs of payments and retaining copies of contracts and work orders. Timely filing of 1099 forms and accurate reporting of payment amounts are crucial for smooth tax processing and avoiding any penalties from the IRS. READ MORE: Best Tax Software for Self-Employed People How to Issue and File 1099 Forms Issuing and filing a 1099 form is simple once the payer has the proper information. To fill out a 1099 form, a business needs four pieces of information: Payer’s information Payee’s information Nonemployee compensation amount Tax information, such as Social Security number or tax ID number The first box of the 1099-NEC contains the information on the paying business. There is only one box for this information, and you must include your name and business name, street address and phone number. The second section of the 1099-NEC is for the paid contractor’s information. To obtain this, the payer will send the payee a W-9 form requesting their name, address, and taxpayer identification number. However, if the contractor is not a U.S. resident, the payer will need a W-8BEN or W-8BEN to certify that they reside outside the country. After a business fills out these sections, it needs only to input the compensation amount that the contractor received during the tax year. After completing the 1099 form, make sure to verify the state 1099 form requirements. Some states mandate the submission of forms, while others do not. To comply with federal regulations, the business must send two copies: one to the IRS and one to the payee, ensuring that both reach their destinations by January 31. Detailed filing procedures for each of these copies can be found on the first page of the 1099 form. A new online portal from the IRS, called the Information Return Intake System, enables users to create and file 1099 forms. READ MORE: Don’t Forget This New Tax Rule for Small Business 1099 Related Penalties Businesses that fail to issue a 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC by the filing deadline could face penalties ranging from $50 to $280 per form for the current tax year, depending on how late the form was submitted. Businesses that intentionally disregard a payee’s request to correct 1099 with errors can be subject to a minimum penalty of $570 per form, or 10% of the income reported on the form, with no maximum. Automating 1099 Processes The advent of technology has made managing 1099 forms more efficient. Many modern accounting software solutions offer features to automate the generation, filing, and tracking of 1099 forms. This automation enhances accuracy, saves time, and reduces administrative burdens. When choosing a 1099 automation tool, consider factors like integration with existing accounting systems, e-filing capabilities, and secure data handling. This technological shift is reshaping how businesses handle their 1099 processes, offering a more streamlined approach to financial management. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_yHPIvtiKjs%3Fsi%3D07wWf0OfVlIZeMTr FAQ What If You Don’t Receive a 1099? Taxpayers earning qualified income should receive a 1099 form from the payer no later than early February, but what happens when they don’t? The first step to take if a 1099 isn’t received is to contact the payer. If it’s still not received by Feb. 15, the party should call the IRS for help at 1-800-829-1040. Regardless of whether a 1099 is received, the taxpayer is still required to report the income on their tax return. This can often be done by obtaining the information from alternative sources, such as bank statements. What Is an Author’s Income Threshold for Book Royalties? Royalties paid to an artist, such as an author, musician, songwriter, or singer, are considered taxable income. Whether or not those royalties are subject to self-employment tax depends largely on whether the artist is a professional or a hobbyist. The United States Tax Code requires publishers to report royalties paid that exceed $10 in Form 1099-MISC. What are Other income payments considered on a 1099? Form 1099-MISC is used to report payments categorized as “other” than nonemployee compensation made by a trade or business to individuals or entities. This “other” income can include payments for rent, royalties, prizes, and awards, as well as substitute payments made in place of dividends. The 1099-MISC form includes a section for payments that do not fit into its specified categories, which is labeled as “other income.” This is where a business will report payments of $600 or more made for activities including participation in a medical research study, monetary prizes or awards, termination of self-employed insurance salespeople and punitive damages, damages for nonphysical injuries or sickness and any other taxable damages. How Do You Report Interest Income to the IRS? Most interest that taxpayers can withdraw without incurring a penalty is regarded as taxable income by the IRS, although there are some exceptions. Interest recipients should receive Copy B of form 1099-INT or form 1099-OID, which report taxable or tax-exempt interest payments of $10 or more. These forms are typically issued by a broker as part of a composite statement. Interest earners must report all taxable and tax-exempt interest on their federal income tax returns, whether or not they receive a Form 1099. Where Can You Get 1099 Forms? Blank 1099 forms are available from a variety of convenient locations. Businesses can get paper copies at many post offices, public libraries and even office supply stores. They also can request 1099 forms from the IRS, which can be mailed to them in paper form or downloaded to print. However, it’s important to know the correct 1099 form to request. A new IRS online portal, known as the Information Return Intake System allows users to electronically create and file 1099 forms. Some accounting and tax-preparation software services also will prepare, print and file certain 1099 forms, such as the 1099-NEC. An accountant or tax preparer can also e-file 1099 forms together with a business’s tax returns. It’s important to note that if a business is required to file more than 250 1099s, it must do so electronically. Businesses that do not comply and lack an approved waiver may face penalties of up to $100 for each return. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Form 1099 Rules for Employers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Conferences have been on my mind a lot lately—specifically, the ones that bring together the brightest marketers and creators in the industry. After sharing the list with my Marketing team, one thought echoed across the board: "Our readers would probably love this, too." So, why are conferences on our radar in the first place? Well, being a remote team has some huge perks—working with people from around the globe, for starters. But there's something about meeting face-to-face that simply can’t be replicated through a Zoom call. Plus, the right conference does two things at once: gives you access to top-tier education and opens doors to incredible networking opportunities. If you’ve been toying with attending one this year (or just got the idea beamed into your head), you’re in luck. I’ve rounded up the top conferences on my radar, with dates, locations, and highlights. These events tick one or more of these boxes: Relevant topics: You’ll walk away with strategies that actually work and insights on trends shaping social media, marketing, and business today.Great speaker lineups: Think industry leaders and innovators across tech, branding, and the creator economy.Networking opportunities: Perfect for meeting collaborators, sponsors, and professionals who can help take your business or creator journey to the next level.So, let’s dive into the events you’ll want on your calendar for 2025. 1. Creator Economy LiveDate: February 4-5, 2025 Location: Caesars Forum, Las Vegas Price: $999-2,099 Best for: Creators looking to connect with decision-makers and influencer marketing pros Creator Economy Live is a two-day deep dive into the creator economy, focusing on the strategies, relationships, and platforms that drive the industry forward. Whether you're a creator, agency rep, or marketing professional, you'll find valuable insights to help you grow. What to Expect: Panels and fireside chats with experts sharing their success stories and strategies on building sustainable careers in the creator space.Networking lounges and interactive sessions provide opportunities to meet brand partners and other creators.If making strategic connections and learning from top-tier experts is your goal, this one’s a must. 2. SXSW AustinDates: March 7–15, 2025 Location: Austin, Texas Price: $895-2,195 Best for: Creators and marketers interested in digital innovation, culture, and technology trends SXSW Austin blends film, music, technology, and interactive media, offering a dynamic space for creative and tech professionals. The conference track is a major draw, focusing on topics that matter to social media, content creation, and digital innovation. What to expect: Panels and workshops on storytelling, audience engagement, and tech innovation.Networking mixers and live showcases to connect with potential collaborators in a high-energy, creative atmosphere.3. Social Media Marketing WorldDate: March 30–April 1, 2025 Location: San Diego Convention Center, California; Virtual Price: $497-1,497 Best for: Marketing professionals, social media managers, and small business owners Hosted by Social Media Examiner, Social Media Marketing World offers practical training to level up your social media strategies. You'll learn about platform algorithms and content marketing tactics directly from industry leaders. What to expect: Sessions on content marketing, platform algorithms, and engagement strategies to drive conversions.Niche workshops on platform-specific tactics like TikTok growth, Instagram Reels, and LinkedIn personal branding.4. Social Media Week by AdWeekDate: May 12-14, 2025 Location: Metropolitan Pavilion, New York Price: $935-1,359 Best for: CMOs, social media strategists, creators, and brand marketers AdWeek’s Social Media Week is where top minds in social media, branding, and pop culture come to share insights. With high-profile speakers and data-driven sessions, this event helps marketers and creators stay sharp in a rapidly evolving industry. What to expect: Deep dives into case studies from viral campaigns that broke the internet.Tactics for building stronger influencer partnerships.Strategies to stay ahead of changing audience trends and behaviors.Panels often include experts from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, giving you an inside look at what’s next in the social landscape. 5. SocialDayDate: May 20-22, 2025 Location: Phantom Peak, London, United Kingdom Price: £350-3,500 Best for: Social media professionals, content creators, and digital strategists SocialDay is one of the top social media marketing conferences in the UK, designed for professionals looking to stay ahead of trends, sharpen their skills, and connect with industry leaders. What to expect: Keynotes and panels covering TikTok strategies, SEO, and social media trends.Expert insights on building community, brand storytelling, and content scaling.Interactive workshops on influencer marketing, agency growth, and AI in social media.Networking opportunities in an engaging, ‘unstuffy’ environment with industry peers.6. SXSW LondonDate: June 2-7, 2025 Location: Shoreditch, London, United Kingdom Price: £520-1,040 Best for: Creators, tech entrepreneurs, and marketers The first-ever SXSW London builds on the iconic Austin edition, creating a hub for creators, innovators, and technologists across Europe. With a spotlight on the intersection of creativity, technology, and culture, this event offers a front-row seat to the future of digital experiences. What to expect: Sessions exploring creativity-driven tech innovations.Panels featuring industry leaders reshaping digital culture.Networking opportunities in one of London's most vibrant creative districts.7. Cannes Lions Creator TrackDate: June 16-20, 2025 Location: Cannes, France Price: €1,183 for Creator track Best for: Creators, marketers, and agency professionals focused on creative innovation The Cannes Lions festival is the ultimate celebration of creativity in communications, marketing, and media. The Creator Track zeroes in on influencer marketing, content production, and brand storytelling, making it a must for anyone pushing creative boundaries. What to expect: Sessions led by world-renowned creatives on storytelling and brand innovation.Insights on building impactful influencer marketing strategies.Exclusive networking events in the stunning backdrop of Cannes.8. VidCon AnaheimDate: June 19-21, 2025 Location: Anaheim, California Price: $125-1,230 Best for: Digital creators, influencers, and fans VidCon is one of the largest gatherings for creators and their communities. It’s a hotspot for both established creators and newcomers, offering panels, keynotes, and interactive fan experiences. What to expect:Insights on platform updates, audience engagement, and monetization strategies from experts across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.Opportunities to connect with fans, industry leaders, and other creators.Panels and keynotes featuring top influencers and social media pioneers.9. Content Entrepreneur ExpoDate: August 24-26 2025 Location: Virtual Price: $695-995 Best for: Content entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and digital business owners The Content Entrepreneur Expo is designed to help content creators and entrepreneurs build sustainable, scalable businesses. This event dives deep into topics like launching digital products, growing subscription-based revenue, and building diverse income streams. What to expect: Workshops on digital product launches and revenue generation.Networking through mastermind sessions, mentorship circles, and brand partnership meetups.Insights from successful content entrepreneurs sharing real-world growth strategies.10. CreatorFestDate: October 24, 2025 Location: London, United Kingdom Price: TBA Best for: Creators, marketers, and brand representatives focused on collaboration and growth CreatorFest is a high-energy festival connecting creators with brands and industry leaders across Europe. It’s a must-attend event for those looking to explore new opportunities and trends shaping the creator economy. What to expect:Interactive workshops on creator monetization and growth strategies.Brand showcases highlighting collaboration opportunities.Strategy sessions on cross-platform content trends.11. Web SummitDate: November 10-13, 2025 Location: Lisbon, Portugal Price: TBA Best for: Tech-savvy creators, entrepreneurs, and startup founders Web Summit is one of the world’s largest and most influential tech conferences, attracting leaders from technology, media, and venture capital. While innovation is the main focus, there’s plenty for creators and entrepreneurs, with sessions on digital content, creator platforms, and scaling startups. What to expect:Key sessions on digital content strategies and platform innovation.Insights on startup growth and fundraising from top industry leaders.Networking opportunities with tech innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs.12. Spotlight Conference Date: October 29, 2025 Location: Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), Netherlands Price: €99-849 Best for: Digital marketers, in-house teams, agency professionals, and entrepreneurs Spotlight is a one-day marketing conference hosted by Semrush, designed for professionals who want actionable strategies, real-world insights, and meaningful networking opportunities. With a focus on solving real marketing challenges, Spotlight blends expert-led keynotes, small-group mastermind sessions, and interactive experiences to help attendees leave with a plan—not just inspiration. What to expect:Main stage keynotes featuring industry leaders sharing data-driven strategies and campaign insights and mastermind sessions—roundtable discussions with experts to tackle specific marketing challenges.Expo area showcasing the latest marketing tools, trends, and solutions.Networking mixers before and after the event to build connections with peers and industry leaders.Semrush certification workshops offering hands-on training in the latest digital marketing strategies.Conferences that are yet to be announcedSome key events have yet to confirm the details for 2025. However, they’re usually highly anticipated and worth keeping an eye on. CreatorConfBest for: Creators looking to build community and business infrastructure CreatorConf is a virtual conference designed to help creators optimize and scale their operations. With a focus on productivity, team-building, and sustainable business models, it’s perfect for creators looking to grow their ventures efficiently. What to expect:Workshops on productivity hacks and tools to streamline workflows.Sessions on scaling content teams and managing business infrastructure.Community-building opportunities with other creators worldwide.VidSummitBest for: Video creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs VidSummit focuses on the business of content creation, with an emphasis on monetization, video marketing, and audience growth. It’s a creator-first event, offering direct access to expert insights on building successful video content careers. What to expect: Sessions on growing and monetizing your YouTube and TikTok presence.Keynotes from top creators and video marketing experts.Practical strategies to maximize reach and engagement across platforms.The Information’s Creator Economy SummitBest for: Industry analysts, creator platform leaders, and marketers The Creator Economy Summit, hosted by The Information, offers a deep dive into the business side of the creator economy. It’s known for bringing together executives, analysts, and creators to explore critical industry shifts and opportunities. What to expect: In-depth discussions on platform policies and their impact on creators.Panels on emerging monetization opportunities and creator partnerships.Networking with top-level decision-makers shaping the creator economy.How we handle conferences at BufferWe've put some real thought into how we approach conferences at Buffer (and yes, I've had a front-row seat to these discussions!). Here's what's interesting: we started out with a simple "$500 per person" approach back in 2017. Spoiler alert: It wasn't great. Some people needed more, others didn't use it at all. These days, we're much more strategic about it. In 2025, we're focusing on key conferences that tick specific boxes: Events hosted by our integration partners (think Meta Conference and Threads API Summit) to stay in the loop on platform updatesOpportunities for our team to share their expertise through speaking engagementsConferences that help us better understand and serve our customersFun fact: We spent around $7,000 on conferences in the last year alone, covering everything from tickets to travel. And you know what? It's been worth every penny. Some of our team's favorites have included SaaStr, WWDC, and the Meta Conference. We plan to be at more this year — case in point, I’ll be attending SXSW in London, courtesy of Buffer! Reach out via LinkedIn if you’ll be there too. What conferences will you be attending in 2025?That’s our list! Of course, with so many conferences happening each year, it’s impossible to include them all. These are just some of the standout events we’re excited about. Which ones are you planning to attend? Did we miss any must-attend conferences? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear from you! View the full article