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Ministers will be told to look at whether some watchdogs can be scrappedView the full article

Start-up in talks over ways to allow its non-profit board to maintain control after conversion to a for-profit businessView the full article

UK tax authority rows back on changes to whether limited liability partners can be seen as employeesView the full article

Vast estimated deposits of lithium, titanium and rare earths such as gallium have yet to be significantly developedView the full article

The UK expansion of the quintessential New York firm is a long-term bet on the importance of English commercial lawView the full article

The iPhone maker wants to diversify its supply chain beyond China. Can the world’s largest democracy deliver?View the full article

YouTube has announced the integration of Google DeepMind’s latest video generation model, Veo 2, into its Shorts platform, enhancing AI-powered creative tools for users. The update expands Dream Screen, YouTube’s AI-driven background generator, and introduces the ability to create standalone AI-generated video clips that can be added to Shorts. With the launch of Veo 2, users can now generate video clips from simple text prompts, filling gaps in their content or creating entirely new scenes. This new capability allows creators to add AI-generated elements directly into Shorts without needing original footage. “Need a specific scene but don’t have the right footage? Want to turn your imagination into reality and tell a unique story?” wrote Dina Berrada, Director of Product, Generative AI Creation at YouTube. “Simply use a text prompt to generate a video clip that fits perfectly into your narrative, or create a whole new world of content.” The integration of Veo 2 enhances Dream Screen, making AI-generated videos more detailed, realistic, and faster to produce. The upgraded model improves real-world physics and human movement, while also allowing users to apply specific styles, lens effects, and cinematic filters to their AI-generated content. How to Use Veo 2 in YouTube Shorts Creators can access the new features in two ways: To generate AI video backgrounds: Open the Shorts camera, select Green Screen, then choose Dream Screen and enter a text prompt to create a custom background. To create AI-generated video clips: Open the Shorts camera, tap Add to open the media picker, then select Create at the top. After entering a text prompt, select an image, tap Create video, and choose the desired length. YouTube has implemented SynthID watermarks and clear labels to distinguish AI-generated content. These features are now available in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans for further expansion. This article, "YouTube Integrates Veo 2 AI Video Generation Into Shorts, Expands Creative Tools" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

YouTube has announced the integration of Google DeepMind’s latest video generation model, Veo 2, into its Shorts platform, enhancing AI-powered creative tools for users. The update expands Dream Screen, YouTube’s AI-driven background generator, and introduces the ability to create standalone AI-generated video clips that can be added to Shorts. With the launch of Veo 2, users can now generate video clips from simple text prompts, filling gaps in their content or creating entirely new scenes. This new capability allows creators to add AI-generated elements directly into Shorts without needing original footage. “Need a specific scene but don’t have the right footage? Want to turn your imagination into reality and tell a unique story?” wrote Dina Berrada, Director of Product, Generative AI Creation at YouTube. “Simply use a text prompt to generate a video clip that fits perfectly into your narrative, or create a whole new world of content.” The integration of Veo 2 enhances Dream Screen, making AI-generated videos more detailed, realistic, and faster to produce. The upgraded model improves real-world physics and human movement, while also allowing users to apply specific styles, lens effects, and cinematic filters to their AI-generated content. How to Use Veo 2 in YouTube Shorts Creators can access the new features in two ways: To generate AI video backgrounds: Open the Shorts camera, select Green Screen, then choose Dream Screen and enter a text prompt to create a custom background. To create AI-generated video clips: Open the Shorts camera, tap Add to open the media picker, then select Create at the top. After entering a text prompt, select an image, tap Create video, and choose the desired length. YouTube has implemented SynthID watermarks and clear labels to distinguish AI-generated content. These features are now available in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans for further expansion. This article, "YouTube Integrates Veo 2 AI Video Generation Into Shorts, Expands Creative Tools" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Relations between bosses soured as Honda grew frustrated with Nissan’s restructuringView the full article

The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more. When you factor in home, school, work, and other public spaces, the average person spends 90% of their time indoors. Given this, it’s probably no surprise that the built environment is responsible for 42% of the world’s carbon (CO2) emissions. This number is too big and the likelihood of it increasing is high when you consider aging buildings, extreme weather, a rising number of powered devices, and the energy demands of AI and high-performance computers. One way for workplaces to lower it is to go back to school and take a page from today’s campus IT leaders and administrators. In addition to monitoring energy consumption, shifting high demand processing needs to off-peak times, and taking advantage of government incentives including energy tax credits and grants, campus leaders have uncovered a new way to get a better handle on energy consumption. One that can potentially lower their buildings’ carbon emissions and be replicated in the workplace. The problem with estimating energy needs Energy consumption and distribution are often based on assumptions. For example, an ad hoc observation could tell you that sections of the library have fewer people on Saturday night versus Monday night. And that student projects and hackathons bring together clusters of people hovering over a table or in a lab. You can also assume energy consumption is higher in dorms on weekday mornings as students get ready for classes while administration buildings are still dark, therefore requiring less power in the administration buildings. Also, for university administrators, budgeting meetings require a larger conference room while one-on-one conversations are in private offices. For these different activities, energy needs vary. These assumptions may be helpful but are not entirely accurate; otherwise CO2 emissions would be decreasing. The HVAC and IT teams have likely already factored the ebb and flow of foot traffic and occupancy into buildings for heating and cooling systems. However, they can’t know the frequency and timing of ad hoc meetings. Meanwhile, the time and cost of powering up an area for a short meeting can be untenable, which explains why a space is often set to a consistent room temperature regardless of usage. Our buildings today don’t understand what users need or intend. I’m sure you remember evenings when you were studying or working alone in a classroom or office, only to have the lights suddenly shut off—forcing you to do a little dance to turn them back on. The situation is similar with HVAC systems. In many buildings, a single rooftop unit cools the entire space, so if one person feels hot in a room and sets the thermostat to “low,” the system might crank up the AC dramatically, wasting a lot of energy. These reactive responses are inefficient for building systems. The future lies in leveraging spatial intelligence to understand how users interact with space and to predict future needs and trends. Use AI to replace assumptions with actual data Little is known about understanding how humans use campus buildings and the office, yet that is changing. Instead of assumption-based decisions, campuses are tuning in to how students and staff use the buildings. For a while, the benefits of occupancy trackers, productivity tools, and cameras were touted, but those are incomplete at best and invasive at worst. This is why higher education institutions are tapping into newer technologies that combine AI and body heat sensing technology with anonymity to better understand how humans use indoor space. In addition to providing insight into foot traffic and occupancy, human movements can tell you the frequency of ad hoc meetings and the need for collaborative versus individual space based on how humans interact on a regular basis. The institutions and organizations using these newer technologies aren’t interested in who is in the space, nor are they capturing that data; they are focused on how the space is being used. Campus insights are transferable to the workplace Campus energy demands are not unlike workplace energy demands. In many instances, both have a mix of older and newer buildings, fluctuating needs for individual work and group collaboration, and fluid foot traffic and occupancy due to shifts in return to office policies. Additionally, each campus and company have distinct corporate cultures. When we have a complete and accurate picture of how indoor space is used by humans, it leads to a better distribution of heating and cooling systems to meet the needs of the people in them. As a result, we see: Fewer blackouts: Despite older infrastructures being retrofitted, the number of blackouts is steadily increasing. Data from Climate Central reports that the U.S. has experienced a 58% increase in weather-related power outages over the past decade compared to the 2000s. A better understanding of energy consumption and needs can help lower the likelihood of blackouts. Higher value from investments in retrofits: According to Professor Kent Larson, director of the City Science research group at the MIT Media Lab, one can lower a building’s carbon footprint by using “deep energy retrofit” with newer technologies in HVAC/building materials and building sensory systems, including heat sensing technology to understand the effects of movements in a space. More productive workspaces: Instead of expensive or one-size-fits-all campus and office designs, interiors can reflect the distinct culture of the institution or organization. Spaces that accommodate the people in them result in more productive, collaborative, and meaningful environments. These types of insights flow into cost savings on energy and maintenance, lower carbon footprints, greater return on technology investments, and higher retention. In the workplace, it’s clear that employees are now in the office more regularly. In a January 2025 report, JLL cites rental rates are trending upwards and leasing has cemented post-pandemic highs in the last three consecutive quarters. What’s more, Q4 volume was at least 92% of pre-pandemic averages. As organizations try to make the office a place employees want to be, it is worth taking a closer look at innovations on campuses that can make a difference in the well-being of employees and the planet. Honghao Deng is the CEO and cofounder of Butlr, an MIT Media Lab spinout. View the full article

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the alleged murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is in prison awaiting trial. But he still managed to launch a new website, along with his first official statement since his arrest, via his legal team. The message states that Mangione, who is being held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, has been “overwhelmed” by and “grateful” for the support he’s received in the form of letters from those who have been moved by his story. Although federal charges against the 26-year-old Mangione include stalking and murder for allegedly gunning down Thompson in front of a New York City hotel, some Americans who are frustrated with the state of the health insurance industry have celebrated him as a folk hero. Not long after a manhunt for the shooter began, there were memes, donations, merchandise, and conversations over the potential for copycats. “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe,” said Mangione in the statement. “While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive. Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future.” Mangione’s legal team also shared a note on the site, explaining why they felt the need to create the outlet. “Due to the extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support, this site was created and is maintained by Luigi Mangione’s New York legal defense team to provide answers to frequently asked questions, accurate information about his cases, and dispel misinformation,” the note read. “The intent is to share factual information regarding the unprecedented, multiple prosecutions against him.” Per the site’s FAQ page, Mangione’s team asked that supporters limit the number of certain items they are sending, such as photos. “Luigi is allowed to receive photos via Shutterfly and FreePrints in accordance with mail procedures while in custody,” the section explains, noting Mangione has received many photos. “Due to the volume of photos, they could take longer than usual to be screened and shared. Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time. Please note that every photo that is received is screened and reviewed by law enforcement.” It also asked that supporters temporarily refrain from sending books, given a large number have already been sent. The site also includes a link to a Give Send Go crowdfunding website, which supporters have been donating to in order to help pay for the suspect’s legal fees. As of Monday afternoon, the donations topped $475,000. Last week, the accused’s attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo told ABC News, “Luigi is aware of the fund and very much appreciates the outpouring of support.” Agnifilo continued, “My client plans on utilizing it to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him.” Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include first-degree murder, an act of terrorism, criminal possession of a weapon and forgery by using a fake ID. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 21 in Manhattan. View the full article

A new study from Atticus highlights the risks faced by gig economy workers, revealing that many continue working through injuries without compensation or support. The research, based on a survey of 1,000 American gig workers, found that 15% have suffered workplace injuries or illnesses, with nearly 90% working through their health issues due to financial pressures. The findings underscore the lack of safety nets and growing concerns about long-term job security. Injuries and Financial Burden Gig roles such as rideshare driving, food delivery, and manual labor present significant health risks. Despite this, more than 80% of injured workers received no compensation or insurance benefits. Many paid out-of-pocket for treatment, with Gen Z (59%) and Gen X (56%) workers most likely to cover costs themselves. The inability to take time off for recovery is another major challenge. Three in four injured or ill gig workers returned to work before they were ready, highlighting the financial strain caused by the lack of paid leave. Some workers found the burden unsustainable, with 2% quitting due to injury or illness, a figure disproportionately affecting Gen X workers (10%). Working Through Injuries Without Compensation Despite the high injury rate, nearly 90% of gig workers continued working while injured or ill, with Gen X workers (93%) being the most likely to push through. Employer support was largely absent, with 47% of injured workers feeling their injury was ignored. Workers’ compensation remained out of reach for most. More than three in four gig workers never applied, often due to lack of knowledge or the belief that their injury wouldn’t qualify. Among those who did apply, 30% were denied benefits, often due to insufficient supporting evidence. Gen Z workers were the most likely to apply (42%), with 35% receiving benefits, while Gen X workers had the lowest application rate (7%) and approval rate (7%). Burnout and Calls for Change Beyond physical injuries, burnout is a growing issue in the gig economy. Two in five gig workers reported burnout from working through health issues, with Gen Z workers (50%) particularly affected. Additionally, 87% worry about a future injury leaving them without income, with the concern highest among Gen X and Gen Z (88%). The financial and physical risks of gig work are leading many to seek alternatives. One in two gig workers is considering traditional full-time employment for more stability, with three in five Gen Z workers expressing interest. Unionization and Policy Reform The study also found nearly 80% of gig workers support forming a union or collective to push for stronger workplace protections, with 85% of Gen Z workers in favor. The findings suggest a growing movement toward advocacy in response to the lack of employer-provided safety nets. Rethinking Protections for Gig Workers The study underscores the need for greater education and policy reform to protect gig workers. One-third (34%) of respondents admitted they didn’t know how workers’ compensation works, meaning some may have been eligible but didn’t apply. Image: Envato This article, "Study: Gig Workers Face High Injury Risks, Financial Strain, and Lack of Support" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A new study from Atticus highlights the risks faced by gig economy workers, revealing that many continue working through injuries without compensation or support. The research, based on a survey of 1,000 American gig workers, found that 15% have suffered workplace injuries or illnesses, with nearly 90% working through their health issues due to financial pressures. The findings underscore the lack of safety nets and growing concerns about long-term job security. Injuries and Financial Burden Gig roles such as rideshare driving, food delivery, and manual labor present significant health risks. Despite this, more than 80% of injured workers received no compensation or insurance benefits. Many paid out-of-pocket for treatment, with Gen Z (59%) and Gen X (56%) workers most likely to cover costs themselves. The inability to take time off for recovery is another major challenge. Three in four injured or ill gig workers returned to work before they were ready, highlighting the financial strain caused by the lack of paid leave. Some workers found the burden unsustainable, with 2% quitting due to injury or illness, a figure disproportionately affecting Gen X workers (10%). Working Through Injuries Without Compensation Despite the high injury rate, nearly 90% of gig workers continued working while injured or ill, with Gen X workers (93%) being the most likely to push through. Employer support was largely absent, with 47% of injured workers feeling their injury was ignored. Workers’ compensation remained out of reach for most. More than three in four gig workers never applied, often due to lack of knowledge or the belief that their injury wouldn’t qualify. Among those who did apply, 30% were denied benefits, often due to insufficient supporting evidence. Gen Z workers were the most likely to apply (42%), with 35% receiving benefits, while Gen X workers had the lowest application rate (7%) and approval rate (7%). Burnout and Calls for Change Beyond physical injuries, burnout is a growing issue in the gig economy. Two in five gig workers reported burnout from working through health issues, with Gen Z workers (50%) particularly affected. Additionally, 87% worry about a future injury leaving them without income, with the concern highest among Gen X and Gen Z (88%). The financial and physical risks of gig work are leading many to seek alternatives. One in two gig workers is considering traditional full-time employment for more stability, with three in five Gen Z workers expressing interest. Unionization and Policy Reform The study also found nearly 80% of gig workers support forming a union or collective to push for stronger workplace protections, with 85% of Gen Z workers in favor. The findings suggest a growing movement toward advocacy in response to the lack of employer-provided safety nets. Rethinking Protections for Gig Workers The study underscores the need for greater education and policy reform to protect gig workers. One-third (34%) of respondents admitted they didn’t know how workers’ compensation works, meaning some may have been eligible but didn’t apply. Image: Envato This article, "Study: Gig Workers Face High Injury Risks, Financial Strain, and Lack of Support" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Governor Christopher Waller says levies would only cause temporary increase in prices View the full article

Paramedics treat more than a dozen people at the scene with no fatalities reportedView the full article

Opposition calls for president’s impeachment after he promoted a cryptocurrency that plunged in valueView the full article

Departments asked to model savings of up to 11% as government battles chronic squeeze on public financesView the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. Remember the letter-writer whose anti-vax employee was pressuring a coworker not to vaccinate her baby? Here’s the update. I really appreciated your advice and several of the thoughts from the commenters as well. I have weekly one-on-ones with each member of my team, so after reading your response, I used that next meeting with Cordelia as an opportunity to step in, after taking care of our usual business. I used the framing about how if the roles were reversed, if Dawn didn’t want to vaccinate and someone was pressuring her to, I would need to shut that conversation down, because Dawn deserves to be able to come to work and not be questioned or hassled about any or all of her medical decisions … just like you, Cordelia. I would never let anyone pressure you or give you a hard time about not getting vaccinated, and now I need you to give your coworker that same respect. She teared up and said, “I just wish someone would have told me not to give my little boy all of those poisonous shots; he would still be alive now,” and then started sobbing. It was horrible. I gave her some tissues and a little bit of time. After a reasonable amount of time, I told her that I understood that Dawn’s pregnancy might have brought up a lot of really hard and painful memories for her, and that I was ready to support her in any way that was reasonable, but that did not and could not include pressuring Dawn in any way. She nodded and said that she understood. At this point, there were less than 30 minutes left in the workday, and I asked if she wanted to go ahead and leave a little bit early. She agreed, got her coat, and left work. I stayed at my desk for a few more minutes to steady myself. (I am not someone who typically makes other people cry, and even though I knew I was doing the right thing, it was still deeply unpleasant.) Once I felt like myself again, I went to Dawn’s desk to check in with her. After asking if she was okay, I said that I’m sure she had already noticed that pregnant women often get a lot of unsolicited advice and information, and that if she was ever feeling pressured or harassed by a coworker to please let me know, because that wasn’t acceptable at work. She said, “Oh, that’s why Cordelia was upset? Thanks for talking to her. I really appreciate it.” I told her I was happy to do it, that it was my job, and that I was sorry it had taken me so long to notice and put a stop to it originally, but that if there were any further issues, please let me know right away. We had our regularly scheduled one-on-one two days later, and I reiterated this point, but she said everything was good. Cordelia has seemed more or less like her usual gregarious self since them. The three of them have continued to have lunch together most days and as far as I can tell without truly egregious eavesdropping haven’t been talking about anything more serious than the weather (very cold), Taylor Swift (very talented), and Willow’s new haircut (very cute). Dawn is just a few weeks away from going on her maternity leave, and is as happy, anxious, excited, and exhausted as you might expect. As far as I can tell, this particular issue is entirely resolved. Also? Thank goodness for this blog! I am someone who ended up in this role because I was very good at doing the work that Cordelia, Willow, and Dawn are doing, so I guess my bosses figured that I would be naturally good at supervising people doing that same work. But I don’t have any previous experience with managing people, and even with just three people, it is really HARD; it doesn’t come naturally to me at all. I’m very thankful to have this collection of good advice to read, and when push really came to shove, to be able to ask my specific question. Thanks again! View the full article

ORGANIZATIONAL teams determine overall performance, shape culture, drive growth, and deliver results — or not. Today’s teams face a new reality. Never before have they encountered the changes and challenges brought on them by remote, hybrid, and in-person work environments. Add in the emergence of AI and countless other workforce and societal trends, and it’s apparent that yesterday’s approaches no longer apply to today’s realities. This time of disruption demands that organizational leaders take an honest look at their teams and how they function and then apply accurate data to inform new ideas, explore strategies, and pursue professional development to position themselves for success. A recent study of 1,000 working Americans revealed essential actions needed for navigating today’s evolving work environments and team dynamics. The findings point to seven key behaviors, practices, and mindsets that describe high-achieving teams. Together, these qualities will enable leaders to reshape culture and drive high performance. As leaders realize the importance of getting it right to survive this new environment, they can draw from the study’s data-driven guidance and take action to redirect the trajectory of today’s teams. These key insights will inform leaders on where and how to take immediate action that will have impact and add immediate value to their teams: 1. Ensuring accountability. The study found that some 4 out of 10 people on a team at work are not experiencing the accountability that is so often requisite for trust, collaboration, teamwork, and results. Further, 54 percent have mentally checked out because a member wasn’t stepping up or was ineffective. In contrast, great teams are accountable to their leader and to each other — whether or not the leader is around. 2. Addressing distractions. The number and magnitude of distractions confronting workers has greatly increased through new technology, social and global events, and changes in the workforce and work environment — think hybrid and work-from-home settings. The findings showed that 1 in 3 workers were on teams without established standards to address distractions. In contrast, high-achieving teams have clear, agreed-upon, and proven standards to increase the likelihood of alignment, efficiency, and positive outcomes. 3. Elevating direct communication. A majority (57%) of workers said their teams do not freely share issues and ideas without being prompted — often referred to as “reactive honesty.” More alarming, 1 in 8 (12%) remain silent even when prompted to speak up. In contrast, high-achieving teams share issues and ideas without being prompted. Teams that embrace “straight-line communications” — addressing challenges directly through clear, direct communication — promote faster resolutions, better collaboration, and greater success. 4. Systemizing communication. The study explored communication on teams from a variety of angles and found that 39 percent of workers feel out of the loop on their teams. In contrast, a clear communication strategy and framework creates a foundation for effective, consistent communication across teams at all levels. Holding regular informative meetings, engaging in active listening, and instilling trust were among the top strategies for systemizing effective communication. 5. Understanding the influence of power. Close to half (44%) of workers said they felt only conditional power — or even powerless — on their teams. For leaders at every level, it’s important to understand the mindset, role, and influence of power on teams. Those who do so help to better engage and unlock the high achievement of different team members. 6. Optimizing differing work environments. Study findings highlighted the difficulty of addressing differences in workplace preferences. More than two-thirds (69%) reported that they found working in person at the office to be the most effective type of team interaction — followed by email (45%), online video conferencing (44%), and instant messaging (43%). High-achieving teams continually examine the interactions that allow them to most effectively move forward. 7. Promoting consistent high achievement. A great majority (75%) of workers said that being on a consistently high-achieving team would be a significant improvement to their work experience. In this time of workplace complexity, creating highly effective teams is a key solution to overcoming intrusive organizational challenges and to creating great cultures that drive results. * * * Steven Gaffney is the CEO of the Steven Gaffney Company. He is a leading expert on creating Consistently High Achieving Teams (CHAT).TM With 30 years of experience working with top leaders and executive teams from Fortune 500 companies, associations, and government agencies, he is an authority on issues from team achievement and thriving cultures to leading change and daily innovation. He is the author of UnConditional Power: Thriving In Any Situation, No Matter How Frustrating or Complex, and the forthcoming Scaling Culture: The Non-Negotiables of Success. Learn more at stevengaffney.com. * * * Follow us on Instagram and X for additional leadership and personal development ideas. View the full article

In recent years, TikTok has taken social media by storm. Today, TikTok is available in over 150 countries, has over 1 billion users, and has been downloaded over 200 million times in the United States alone. Similar to YouTube, TikTok’s social media platform’s most appealing draw is its capability to share videos. TikTok is all about user-generated content, and besides sharing videos, TikTok’s social media platform has evolved into a marketing channel for brands where they use the platform to connect with consumers between the ages of 13 and 60. If you own a business, TikTok marketing can be a great medium for your brand to connect with your customers. With TikTok marketing, you can use TikTok to promote your brand, product, or service by employing different tactics, like influencer marketing, TikTok advertising, and creating organic viral content. In this article, we offer a step-by-step guide on how to start TikTok influencer marketing. What is TikTok Influencer Marketing? TikTok marketing can help your business to increase your brand awareness, engage with customers, sell products and services, get feedback from customers, and advertise products and services to target audiences. With TikTok marketing, you can use TikTok’s social media platform to directly connect with customers but can also use the power of influencers to promote your brand and products. A TikTok media personality or influencer not only comes with social proof to give your brand credibility but also offers access to your target audience(s), which makes your customer acquisition process easy. Because of the exponential growth of TikTok users, companies cannot risk not considering TikTok as a marketing vehicle, especially if their brands cater to Millennials, Generation Zs, and beyond. TikTok allows users to shoot, edit, and upload videos up to one minute long. In recent times, it has evolved from a Gen Z dominant video-sharing app into a mass social media platform with powerful potential for businesses to market their brand to new audiences. Brands like Zara, BMW, Levi’s, and others have already created successful influencer campaigns on TikTok. READ MORE: What is Influencer Marketing How Does Influencer Marketing Work on TikTok? An Influencer is an individual with a significant following on social media who is paid by brands to promote their products to their followers through free products or cash payment for promotional posts. The idea here is to persuade followers to purchase products through popular social media such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. Influencers have the power to affect purchase-making decisions because of their authority, knowledge, or relationships with their audience, acting as a form of social proof. In recent years, TikTok influencers are winning over the Internet with their work and presence. Their opinions can generate a powerful impact on people, especially younger generations. More and more people are following influencers so that they do not miss out on their content. Brands and businesses are recruiting influencers for mentions, reviews, and recommendations. Even though influencer marketing is relatively new, it continues to be a viable solution for businesses who are willing to look for nifty marketing opportunities while building relationships with their target market. In today’s global marketplace, a growing number of consumers trust the recommendations provided by their favorite influencers. Global influencer marketing is projected to increase significantly in value, rising from previous figures. Since influencers have the ability to promote products, they can assist businesses in attracting potential customers and motivating them to make purchases. Influencer marketing can be hugely successful when done correctly. Through their large following, influencers and unique content acumen can create some great buzz around your brand or products and can be a valuable marketing tool. Particularly if your business targets Generation Zs (between 6 and 24 years old), then influencers can help market your products and services. Successful collaborations between influencers and brands on TikTok have succeeded in bringing about a mass appeal for products and services. TikTok Users and Demographics TikTok is poised to emerge as one of the primary social networks for reaching a younger audience. As reported by the influencer marketing hub in September, TikTok has exceeded 1 billion monthly active users, a significant portion of whom are youth. Specifically, 28% of TikTok users are under the age of 18, while 35% fall within the 19-29 age range. Interestingly enough, it has a female skew, with 59% of TikTok’s users being female, compared to 39% male (with 2% identifying as “other”). The only social apps with more users are Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and WeChat. TikTok app reached 3 billion downloads in June 2021 and was the seventh-most downloaded app of the 2010s. TikTok demographics sway towards younger audiences, which makes it a great opportunity to connect with a younger audience. READ MORE: TikTok for Business Why You Should Consider TikTok Influencer Marketing TikTok advertising and advertising on other social media platforms can help boost your reach with target groups. You can complement your efforts by also considering Titok influencer marketing.TikTok influencers’ appeal comes from the fact that they can inspire, encourage, and motivate their audiences. With TikTok influencer marketing, you get the opportunity to promote your brand and product by creating a trendy vibe. Because popular TikTok videos are liked and shared and could go viral, they can exponentially increase your reach. Some reasons to consider TikTok influencer marketing include: They are savvy creatives: because TikTok influencers come with engaging and authentic content creation skills, they offer organic content. This can help your brand opportunities to unlock the best ways to engage and influence their followers through their TikTok videos. Reach the right audience: Because influencers have their captive audience, you can easily reach your target customers with little fanfare. Reduce your expenses: Influencer marketing tends to be more cost-effective than traditional advertising. Additionally, you can provide free products and event access as an alternative to cash payments. Boost your search rankings: By opting for sponsored posts, guest posts, and brand mentions, you can gain quality backlinks. These can help you to boost your web traffic and search engine rankings. Creating a TikTok Marketing Strategy Top influencers on TikTok have millions of followers; they can help grow your small business by getting started with TikTok influencer marketing to reach them. However, before you start negotiating with TikTok influencers, you will need to develop your TikTok marketing strategy. If you are considering TikTok marketing for your business, here are some tips on creating a TikTok marketing strategy include: Gain a deeper understanding of TikTok: TikTok marketing is similar to other social media marketing strategies, but it has its own distinct characteristics, features, and user behaviors. Therefore, it’s essential to get acquainted with the TikTok app, stay updated on current trends, and comprehend its ranking system. Define your target customer: Before signing on an influencer, make sure that the influencer’s content format is aligned with your target audience in terms of interests and the type of content that you want to engage with them. Set measurable goals and plans: Your influencer marketing strategy should include a S.M.A.R.T. goal framework, meaning your strategic goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). You will need to create an engagement plan and make sure that the content you create aligns with your brand voice, values, and personality. Utilize TikTok ad resources to enhance reach and engagement: To develop an effective TikTok marketing strategy, it’s essential to incorporate various types of TikTok ads for a more significant impact. You can create in-feed ads, which include both image and video ads made by you. Additionally, spark ads can be used to promote content from your TikTok account or from TikTok influencers. Other alternatives include branded takeover ads, which are full-screen ads shown when users initially open TikTok. To further boost engagement, you can launch branded hashtag challenges that encourage the use of stickers and filters. Using the TikTok Creator Marketplace One great tool available for influencer marketing campaigns is TikTok’s Marketplace. TikTok’s marketplace offers partnership opportunities for brands to collaborate with brands. By signing up with the TikTok Creator Marketplace platform, businesses can access a wide range of TikTok creators who can produce videos for their products and services. After setting up your account the TikTok Creator Marketplace homepage can let you decide on choosing creators based on location and category, and even browse available creators based on their number of views, followers, or reach. Selecting the Right Influencer for Your TikTok Videos and Ads With literally thousands of TikTok influencers out there, you may be hard-pressed on how to choose an influencer that is the right fit for your brand. Below are some tips for choosing the right influencer for your TikTok Videos and ads: Analyze their audience: Make sure that the TikTok influencer’s audience is aligned with your target audience. You will have to evaluate their followers by age, location, gender, and other parameters. Explore their content: Examine the content shared by the TikTok influencer and consider whether it frequently goes viral and how often new content is produced. Determine if the type of content they create aligns with your brand and industry. Is the influencer well-informed about your industry? Do they incorporate their own content into promotional messages? The ideal influencer for your brand should appear as a relatable individual who shares insights about their favorite products rather than as a salesperson. Suitability for working with brands: Most importantly, check to see if the influencer has experience working with brands, what content they produced for them, and how they performed. That there is no conflict of interest: It is equally important to align messaging with your brand and make sure that the influencer in question does not work with your competition. Also, make sure that the influencer is not marred in controversies and does not promote ideas that are counter to your values and ideals. Engagement rates: You will need to take a look at how audiences engage with these influencers. Also, ask if their audience engages with the kind of content you’re interested in creating. Do they like, comment on, and share the kind of relevant videos you want to make? Do they engage with sponsored content? Other Ways to Find Influencers on TikTok Besides using TikTok’s marketplaces, below are some other ways to find influencers. Approach Influencers Directly You can also choose to reach out to influencers directly via the TikTok platform. TikTok’s algorithm is tailored to assist users in discovering new content creators based on trending content, relevant keywords, popular hashtags, or the ‘For You’ page. Use an Influencer Platform Yet another way to scout influencers is through influencer platforms, Influencer platforms like Grin, CreatorIQ help brands, and Mavrck help businesses in managing and working with influencers. Essentially, they are software solutions designed to assist brands with their influencer marketing Campaigns by offering discovery tools that include searchable databases of potential influencers using algorithms. READ MORE: Influencer Marketing Platform TikTok Marketing Agencies TikTok marketing agencies work with brands and influencers to run influencer campaigns. Agencies like Moburst, Ubiquitous, and ApexDrop help you do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to your influencer marketing activities. These include devising strategies and managing the entire influencer campaign, including developing creative briefs, influencer sourcing and scheduling, influencer contracting, reporting, and insights. Working with TikTok Influencers Effectively Now that you have found your ideal influencer for your brand, here are some rules of thumb to follow when working with influencers in your TikTok marketing campaigns: Understand how TikTok works: Before you start, make sure that you have a working knowledge of TikTok to make the most of your campaign. By knowing the various options available, you can tweak your campaign for maximum effect. Set a clear goal: before launching your campaign, you should make sure that you have a goal. You will need to address issues like why you want to use TikTok as a marketing platform. Is it to push awareness for new products or services? Is it to convert more sales? Your set goal will influence your influencer marketing campaign. Know your target audience: For you to make an impact, you will need to know in terms of their preferences, location, when they’re on the platform, what kind of content appeals to them, and more. A great way to achieve this is by identifying the buyer persona that will help you identify some important characteristics about your audience and what you need to do to connect with them. Encourage the influencer’s creativity: TikTok thrives on creativity, so it’s important to give the TikTok creator the freedom to incorporate their niche into the messaging derived from the creative brief. Being overly strict with corporate messaging may backfire, appearing inauthentic and resembling a standard ad campaign that could alienate customers. READ MORE: TikTok Inflencers Is TikTok a good marketing strategy? Like other social media platforms, TikTok marketing can be a good marketing strategy if your business targets younger generations. Over the years, the number of users on TikTok has gradually grown, and several companies have begun to use TikTok for marketing purposes. Now might be the perfect time to start using TikTok marketing for your business and start reaping the rewards right away. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Getting Started with TikTok Influencer Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In recent years, TikTok has taken social media by storm. Today, TikTok is available in over 150 countries, has over 1 billion users, and has been downloaded over 200 million times in the United States alone. Similar to YouTube, TikTok’s social media platform’s most appealing draw is its capability to share videos. TikTok is all about user-generated content, and besides sharing videos, TikTok’s social media platform has evolved into a marketing channel for brands where they use the platform to connect with consumers between the ages of 13 and 60. If you own a business, TikTok marketing can be a great medium for your brand to connect with your customers. With TikTok marketing, you can use TikTok to promote your brand, product, or service by employing different tactics, like influencer marketing, TikTok advertising, and creating organic viral content. In this article, we offer a step-by-step guide on how to start TikTok influencer marketing. What is TikTok Influencer Marketing? TikTok marketing can help your business to increase your brand awareness, engage with customers, sell products and services, get feedback from customers, and advertise products and services to target audiences. With TikTok marketing, you can use TikTok’s social media platform to directly connect with customers but can also use the power of influencers to promote your brand and products. A TikTok media personality or influencer not only comes with social proof to give your brand credibility but also offers access to your target audience(s), which makes your customer acquisition process easy. Because of the exponential growth of TikTok users, companies cannot risk not considering TikTok as a marketing vehicle, especially if their brands cater to Millennials, Generation Zs, and beyond. TikTok allows users to shoot, edit, and upload videos up to one minute long. In recent times, it has evolved from a Gen Z dominant video-sharing app into a mass social media platform with powerful potential for businesses to market their brand to new audiences. Brands like Zara, BMW, Levi’s, and others have already created successful influencer campaigns on TikTok. READ MORE: What is Influencer Marketing How Does Influencer Marketing Work on TikTok? An Influencer is an individual with a significant following on social media who is paid by brands to promote their products to their followers through free products or cash payment for promotional posts. The idea here is to persuade followers to purchase products through popular social media such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. Influencers have the power to affect purchase-making decisions because of their authority, knowledge, or relationships with their audience, acting as a form of social proof. In recent years, TikTok influencers are winning over the Internet with their work and presence. Their opinions can generate a powerful impact on people, especially younger generations. More and more people are following influencers so that they do not miss out on their content. Brands and businesses are recruiting influencers for mentions, reviews, and recommendations. Even though influencer marketing is relatively new, it continues to be a viable solution for businesses who are willing to look for nifty marketing opportunities while building relationships with their target market. In today’s global marketplace, a growing number of consumers trust the recommendations provided by their favorite influencers. Global influencer marketing is projected to increase significantly in value, rising from previous figures. Since influencers have the ability to promote products, they can assist businesses in attracting potential customers and motivating them to make purchases. Influencer marketing can be hugely successful when done correctly. Through their large following, influencers and unique content acumen can create some great buzz around your brand or products and can be a valuable marketing tool. Particularly if your business targets Generation Zs (between 6 and 24 years old), then influencers can help market your products and services. Successful collaborations between influencers and brands on TikTok have succeeded in bringing about a mass appeal for products and services. TikTok Users and Demographics TikTok is poised to emerge as one of the primary social networks for reaching a younger audience. As reported by the influencer marketing hub in September, TikTok has exceeded 1 billion monthly active users, a significant portion of whom are youth. Specifically, 28% of TikTok users are under the age of 18, while 35% fall within the 19-29 age range. Interestingly enough, it has a female skew, with 59% of TikTok’s users being female, compared to 39% male (with 2% identifying as “other”). The only social apps with more users are Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and WeChat. TikTok app reached 3 billion downloads in June 2021 and was the seventh-most downloaded app of the 2010s. TikTok demographics sway towards younger audiences, which makes it a great opportunity to connect with a younger audience. READ MORE: TikTok for Business Why You Should Consider TikTok Influencer Marketing TikTok advertising and advertising on other social media platforms can help boost your reach with target groups. You can complement your efforts by also considering Titok influencer marketing.TikTok influencers’ appeal comes from the fact that they can inspire, encourage, and motivate their audiences. With TikTok influencer marketing, you get the opportunity to promote your brand and product by creating a trendy vibe. Because popular TikTok videos are liked and shared and could go viral, they can exponentially increase your reach. Some reasons to consider TikTok influencer marketing include: They are savvy creatives: because TikTok influencers come with engaging and authentic content creation skills, they offer organic content. This can help your brand opportunities to unlock the best ways to engage and influence their followers through their TikTok videos. Reach the right audience: Because influencers have their captive audience, you can easily reach your target customers with little fanfare. Reduce your expenses: Influencer marketing tends to be more cost-effective than traditional advertising. Additionally, you can provide free products and event access as an alternative to cash payments. Boost your search rankings: By opting for sponsored posts, guest posts, and brand mentions, you can gain quality backlinks. These can help you to boost your web traffic and search engine rankings. Creating a TikTok Marketing Strategy Top influencers on TikTok have millions of followers; they can help grow your small business by getting started with TikTok influencer marketing to reach them. However, before you start negotiating with TikTok influencers, you will need to develop your TikTok marketing strategy. If you are considering TikTok marketing for your business, here are some tips on creating a TikTok marketing strategy include: Gain a deeper understanding of TikTok: TikTok marketing is similar to other social media marketing strategies, but it has its own distinct characteristics, features, and user behaviors. Therefore, it’s essential to get acquainted with the TikTok app, stay updated on current trends, and comprehend its ranking system. Define your target customer: Before signing on an influencer, make sure that the influencer’s content format is aligned with your target audience in terms of interests and the type of content that you want to engage with them. Set measurable goals and plans: Your influencer marketing strategy should include a S.M.A.R.T. goal framework, meaning your strategic goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). You will need to create an engagement plan and make sure that the content you create aligns with your brand voice, values, and personality. Utilize TikTok ad resources to enhance reach and engagement: To develop an effective TikTok marketing strategy, it’s essential to incorporate various types of TikTok ads for a more significant impact. You can create in-feed ads, which include both image and video ads made by you. Additionally, spark ads can be used to promote content from your TikTok account or from TikTok influencers. Other alternatives include branded takeover ads, which are full-screen ads shown when users initially open TikTok. To further boost engagement, you can launch branded hashtag challenges that encourage the use of stickers and filters. Using the TikTok Creator Marketplace One great tool available for influencer marketing campaigns is TikTok’s Marketplace. TikTok’s marketplace offers partnership opportunities for brands to collaborate with brands. By signing up with the TikTok Creator Marketplace platform, businesses can access a wide range of TikTok creators who can produce videos for their products and services. After setting up your account the TikTok Creator Marketplace homepage can let you decide on choosing creators based on location and category, and even browse available creators based on their number of views, followers, or reach. Selecting the Right Influencer for Your TikTok Videos and Ads With literally thousands of TikTok influencers out there, you may be hard-pressed on how to choose an influencer that is the right fit for your brand. Below are some tips for choosing the right influencer for your TikTok Videos and ads: Analyze their audience: Make sure that the TikTok influencer’s audience is aligned with your target audience. You will have to evaluate their followers by age, location, gender, and other parameters. Explore their content: Examine the content shared by the TikTok influencer and consider whether it frequently goes viral and how often new content is produced. Determine if the type of content they create aligns with your brand and industry. Is the influencer well-informed about your industry? Do they incorporate their own content into promotional messages? The ideal influencer for your brand should appear as a relatable individual who shares insights about their favorite products rather than as a salesperson. Suitability for working with brands: Most importantly, check to see if the influencer has experience working with brands, what content they produced for them, and how they performed. That there is no conflict of interest: It is equally important to align messaging with your brand and make sure that the influencer in question does not work with your competition. Also, make sure that the influencer is not marred in controversies and does not promote ideas that are counter to your values and ideals. Engagement rates: You will need to take a look at how audiences engage with these influencers. Also, ask if their audience engages with the kind of content you’re interested in creating. Do they like, comment on, and share the kind of relevant videos you want to make? Do they engage with sponsored content? Other Ways to Find Influencers on TikTok Besides using TikTok’s marketplaces, below are some other ways to find influencers. Approach Influencers Directly You can also choose to reach out to influencers directly via the TikTok platform. TikTok’s algorithm is tailored to assist users in discovering new content creators based on trending content, relevant keywords, popular hashtags, or the ‘For You’ page. Use an Influencer Platform Yet another way to scout influencers is through influencer platforms, Influencer platforms like Grin, CreatorIQ help brands, and Mavrck help businesses in managing and working with influencers. Essentially, they are software solutions designed to assist brands with their influencer marketing Campaigns by offering discovery tools that include searchable databases of potential influencers using algorithms. READ MORE: Influencer Marketing Platform TikTok Marketing Agencies TikTok marketing agencies work with brands and influencers to run influencer campaigns. Agencies like Moburst, Ubiquitous, and ApexDrop help you do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to your influencer marketing activities. These include devising strategies and managing the entire influencer campaign, including developing creative briefs, influencer sourcing and scheduling, influencer contracting, reporting, and insights. Working with TikTok Influencers Effectively Now that you have found your ideal influencer for your brand, here are some rules of thumb to follow when working with influencers in your TikTok marketing campaigns: Understand how TikTok works: Before you start, make sure that you have a working knowledge of TikTok to make the most of your campaign. By knowing the various options available, you can tweak your campaign for maximum effect. Set a clear goal: before launching your campaign, you should make sure that you have a goal. You will need to address issues like why you want to use TikTok as a marketing platform. Is it to push awareness for new products or services? Is it to convert more sales? Your set goal will influence your influencer marketing campaign. Know your target audience: For you to make an impact, you will need to know in terms of their preferences, location, when they’re on the platform, what kind of content appeals to them, and more. A great way to achieve this is by identifying the buyer persona that will help you identify some important characteristics about your audience and what you need to do to connect with them. Encourage the influencer’s creativity: TikTok thrives on creativity, so it’s important to give the TikTok creator the freedom to incorporate their niche into the messaging derived from the creative brief. Being overly strict with corporate messaging may backfire, appearing inauthentic and resembling a standard ad campaign that could alienate customers. READ MORE: TikTok Inflencers Is TikTok a good marketing strategy? Like other social media platforms, TikTok marketing can be a good marketing strategy if your business targets younger generations. Over the years, the number of users on TikTok has gradually grown, and several companies have begun to use TikTok for marketing purposes. Now might be the perfect time to start using TikTok marketing for your business and start reaping the rewards right away. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Getting Started with TikTok Influencer Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Ofcom last week issued a new proposal document outlining new schemes for the unlicensed use of the 6 GHz band. The post Regulatory win for Wi-Fi in the UK: Ofcom proposes new strongly pro-Wi-Fi regulation for the 6 GHz band appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

Workers at an Amazon warehouse in North Carolina rejected a proposal to unionize, becoming the latest group of the company’s employees to side against union representation. About three-quarters of employees at an Amazon fulfillment center in Garner, a town located near Raleigh, voted against joining a grassroots labor organization called Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment, the National Labor Relations Board announced Saturday. The federal labor agency said 2,447 workers cast ballots against union representation while 829 voted in favor of joining the independent union, which is made up of former and current Amazon workers. The NLRB had said 4,300 Amazon workers were eligible to cast ballots in the election, which took place Monday through Saturday. Rev. Ryan Brown, a former Amazon worker who co-founded the group, said Saturday, “We had already braced ourselves for a loss.” “We knew that historically the tide was against us to have a win for several reasons,” Brown said. “One, we’re in the South. Two, the average worker that’s in North Carolina knows nothing about a union and the benefits of a union and what a union could do for them.” The outcome came just weeks after workers at a Whole Foods Market store in Pennsylvania voted to unionize, leading to the first successful entry of organized labor into the grocery chain, which Amazon owns. Following the union win, Whole Foods asked the NLRB to toss out the election results, arguing the voting process was tainted. In 2022, workers at an Amazon warehouse in the New York City borough of Staten Island unionized with Amazon Labor Union, which joined forces with the Teamsters last year. However, Amazon has objected to the election result and refused to negotiate over a contract. At the same time, the company has also been able to successfully fend off union victories at a second warehouse on Staten Island, as well as at facilities near Albany, New York, and in Bessemer, Alabama. In November, an NLRB administrative law judge ordered a third union election for Amazon warehouse workers in Bessemer after determining that the company committed six violations leading up to a rerun election in March 2022. That rerun was held after the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, which is seeking to represent Amazon workers in Bessemer, filed objections to the first election, which results in a union loss. Workers affiliated with Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment, or CAUSE, have been organizing at the North Carolina warehouse since January 2022. Co-founder Brown said in an interview last month he started organizing because he felt like Amazon was not providing workers adequate protections against COVID-19. The company said Saturday that Amazon already offers what many unions are requesting, such as safe and inclusive workplaces and competitive pay. “We’re glad that our team in Garner was able to have their voices heard, and that they chose to keep a direct relationship with Amazon,” Amazon spokesperson Eileen Hards said in a written statement. —By Haleluya Hadero and Matt O’Brien, AP Business Writers View the full article

A recent survey by Everly Life highlights the financial struggles freelancers face, despite the growing appeal of gig work. While 75% of freelancers feel confident their work will help them meet retirement goals, 54% report heightened pressure to save before they retire. The findings underscore the financial uncertainty that comes with self-employment, despite the autonomy it offers. Financial Challenges for Freelancers The survey of 2,000 gig workers identified income instability, lack of paid time off, and high health insurance costs as the biggest financial challenges. No Paid Vacation (42%) – Many freelancers struggle to take time off, as they lack employer-sponsored benefits. Delayed Payments (40%) – Income insecurity is a major concern, with inconsistent payments making budgeting difficult. Only 26% feel confident their families would be financially secure if they lost their income. High Health Insurance Costs (38%) – Nearly half of uninsured freelancers neglect medical care due to cost concerns. Complex Taxes (36%) – Many struggle with tax planning without employer-provided assistance. Retirement Planning Pressures – The average freelancer aims to retire at 58 years old, expecting to need $353,063 in savings. “Our research shows that financial security is a major concern for freelancers,” said Meredith Bell, Director of Marketing at Everly Life. “Without employer benefits like paid vacation time and life insurance, many struggle to take time off or protect their family’s financial future. This is why having the right financial planning tools and insurance coverage is essential for freelancers.” Why Freelancers Stick With It Despite financial risks, freelancers continue to value their independence. The survey found that the top perks of freelancing include: Choosing Projects (43%) – Many freelancers prefer selecting work they are passionate about. Flexible Hours (41%) – The ability to set their own schedule supports better work-life balance. Being Their Own Boss (40%) – Many enjoy the autonomy of managing their own business. Remote Work (39%) – The ability to work from anywhere is a major draw. More Creativity (38%) – Many freelancers value the freedom to express their creativity. “The flexibility freelancing offers is what draws people in,” Bell said. “Being able to choose projects and set your own schedule is incredibly appealing. However, the key to sustaining this lifestyle is having a solid financial plan in place.” Financial Planning Becomes a Priority The study also found that 74% of freelancers have adjusted their savings habits due to economic changes. Many are prioritizing mental health days (42%) and life insurance (37%) over discretionary spending like travel (25%). “Freelancing offers an incredible level of freedom and flexibility, but our survey highlights the financial uncertainties that come with it,” Bell added. “Financial planning—whether through savings, life insurance, or structured retirement strategies—can help freelancers achieve security and peace of mind.” Image: Envato This article, "Survey Reveals Financial Challenges and Perks of Freelancing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A recent survey by Everly Life highlights the financial struggles freelancers face, despite the growing appeal of gig work. While 75% of freelancers feel confident their work will help them meet retirement goals, 54% report heightened pressure to save before they retire. The findings underscore the financial uncertainty that comes with self-employment, despite the autonomy it offers. Financial Challenges for Freelancers The survey of 2,000 gig workers identified income instability, lack of paid time off, and high health insurance costs as the biggest financial challenges. No Paid Vacation (42%) – Many freelancers struggle to take time off, as they lack employer-sponsored benefits. Delayed Payments (40%) – Income insecurity is a major concern, with inconsistent payments making budgeting difficult. Only 26% feel confident their families would be financially secure if they lost their income. High Health Insurance Costs (38%) – Nearly half of uninsured freelancers neglect medical care due to cost concerns. Complex Taxes (36%) – Many struggle with tax planning without employer-provided assistance. Retirement Planning Pressures – The average freelancer aims to retire at 58 years old, expecting to need $353,063 in savings. “Our research shows that financial security is a major concern for freelancers,” said Meredith Bell, Director of Marketing at Everly Life. “Without employer benefits like paid vacation time and life insurance, many struggle to take time off or protect their family’s financial future. This is why having the right financial planning tools and insurance coverage is essential for freelancers.” Why Freelancers Stick With It Despite financial risks, freelancers continue to value their independence. The survey found that the top perks of freelancing include: Choosing Projects (43%) – Many freelancers prefer selecting work they are passionate about. Flexible Hours (41%) – The ability to set their own schedule supports better work-life balance. Being Their Own Boss (40%) – Many enjoy the autonomy of managing their own business. Remote Work (39%) – The ability to work from anywhere is a major draw. More Creativity (38%) – Many freelancers value the freedom to express their creativity. “The flexibility freelancing offers is what draws people in,” Bell said. “Being able to choose projects and set your own schedule is incredibly appealing. However, the key to sustaining this lifestyle is having a solid financial plan in place.” Financial Planning Becomes a Priority The study also found that 74% of freelancers have adjusted their savings habits due to economic changes. Many are prioritizing mental health days (42%) and life insurance (37%) over discretionary spending like travel (25%). “Freelancing offers an incredible level of freedom and flexibility, but our survey highlights the financial uncertainties that come with it,” Bell added. “Financial planning—whether through savings, life insurance, or structured retirement strategies—can help freelancers achieve security and peace of mind.” Image: Envato This article, "Survey Reveals Financial Challenges and Perks of Freelancing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article