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There are likely occasions in your day-to-day life in which you allow someone else to use your phone, whether it's letting your kid play a game or sharing content with a friend. You may do this without thinking about the privacy implications and what might happen if another person has access to everything on your device and—accidentally or on purpose—uses it to view your search history, scroll through your photos, or send messages to your contacts. If you're an Android user, you should enable app pinning to keep others from snooping around your device. This feature keeps the user in the pinned app until you enter your PIN, pattern, or password. (On iOS, you can achieve a similar effect with Guided Access, which also allows you to set time limits and disable the keyboard and touch input.) Enable app pinning on AndroidTo pin apps, you'll need to enable the feature in your phone's Settings app. To do so, go to Security or Security & location > Advanced > App pinning and toggle on Use app pinning and Ask for PIN before unpinning. Before handing your phone over, open to the app screen you want to pin, then swipe up to the middle of the screen and hold to open your Overview. Tap the app's icon, then tap Pin. This will keep the user locked into that app until you unpin (using your PIN, pattern, or password). Depending on your device navigation settings, there are a few ways to unpin an app: Gesture navigation: Swipe up and hold 2-button navigation: Touch and hold Back + Home 3-button navigation: Touch and hold Back + Overview Note that pinning won't prevent someone from using the app fully, such as swiping through your photos or typing in the search bar, as Android doesn't have the option to disable touch. Pinned apps can also open other apps. At the very least, though, it keeps someone from having access to anything and everything on your device. View the full article

President The President said he would prohibit large institutional investors from buying single-family homes. While the executive couldn't bar such investments on its own, a legislative ban could gain bipartisan support. View the full article

I write a lot about productivity, which means I also read a lot about it. Over the last few months, I've noticed an uptick in people discussing something called "cognitive overload," citing it as a potential reason for a decline in output. The phrase stuck out to me as one of those buzzy terms that has the potential to be overused until it's meaningless—but at its core, it certainly has a real, clear definition that can be helpful tool in maximizing productivity. Basically, cognitive overload is what happens when you're inundated with more information than your brain can process, so your brain just gives up altogether, making hard to focus on anything at all. Here's what to know about it and what to do once you identify it. What causes cognitive overload?You know all those jokes on social media about how a single news item or food product from modern times would kill a person born just a few centuries ago? They're funny and hyperbolic, but they're grounded in the fact that while the ways in which we produce things and share information have advanced wildly, the human brain has basically remained the same. We say it all the time but it bears repeating: We're just not cut out to handle the onslaught of stimuli we get on a daily basis. Think of how many times your phone lights up on a given day. I just checked my screentime app and discovered that though it's only early afternoon, I've gotten 150 notifications straight to my lock screen already today. It's only Wednesday, so I'm averaging 213 a day, which my phone assures me is down 20% from last week and I'm quite sure I'll pick back up by the time Sunday rolls around. Considering that a few months ago, I redid all my phone settings so not all of my notifications got blasted to my lock screen, this is concerning. That's just a lot of information to constantly see. As it turns out, text-based info is the main cause of cognitive overload, at least according to one study. Emails, Slack and Teams messages, texts, calendar notifications—the never-ending stream of these bad boys is a major contributor to the overall feeling of being unable to process or do anything. If you think about an average day when you've felt too zapped to work, it probably included plenty of those. Audio-visual stimuli are less debilitating, according to the study, so a Zoom or phone call or a manager stopping by your desk may not trip you up as badly. Beyond feeling like you can't even think straight or like you're too overwhelmed to take action on any one task, you may be able to recognize cognitive overload from other signs. If incoming messages make you feel frustrated or detached, for instance, no matter what they say, this could be happening to you. That's actually the symptom I experience most often, for what it's worth. When I'm overwhelmed by too much information, I find myself thinking, "What do you want?!" every time my phone lights up, before I even see who is reaching out. (Sorry, Mom.) How I'm battling cognitive overloadAs I was going through the study and thinking over cognitive overload, I realized I've already been implementing a few tricks that may have been helping me avoid it. As mentioned above, I banned my least-used apps from sending me notifications a few months ago. For years, I've also tinkered with my MacBook settings so I don't get any form of push notification on my computer. My phone is next to me at all times; there's no good reason for the top right corner of my laptop screen to be whacking me with the same notifications the phone is already showing me. A few other tried-and-true productivity approaches came to mind for me once I got a good grasp of what cognitive overload actually is. The one-touch rule of inbox management could be useful for you if you find that messages get you worked up. With that, you open each message as you get it and make an instant decision about what to do with the contents. It might seem counterintuitive to face each incoming message head-on if you're trying to avoid feeling burned out by the sheer volume of them, but I've found that when I see a message preview at the top of my screen and do nothing about it, it nags at me all day. Addressing it instantly helps me clear my mind and keep working. Otherwise, the way you go about battling this is going to be pretty subjective, although I do have one more recommendation: If you're not familiar with the Pomodoro technique, get familiar now. With it, you work for a set amount of time (usually 25 minutes) before taking a small break (usually five). When you're in those focus sessions, you should be completely distraction-free, putting your devices in Do Not Disturb mode or even using specialized apps to block other, distracting apps. Knowing you have to work seriously for a certain amount of time can help get you in the zone and push you away from information and decision paralysis while knowing you eventually get a break can help you stay relaxed as you go. View the full article

Robert F Kennedy Jr accuses past administrations of ‘lying’ to the public ‘to protect corporate profit-taking’View the full article

President Donald The President’s administration has introduced a new, inverted food pyramid with fewer food groups. The new three-section food pyramid is part of the administration’s new nutrition policy announced Wednesday, which encourages Americans to eat whole or minimally processed foods, which it calls “real food,” and has been a long time interest of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy. His policy interests also shine through on the initiative’s new website, realfood.gov, which features copy that reads like a MAHA manifesto. The National Design Studio gave the website a minimalist design that takes cues from consumer companies like Chobani and Sweetgreen, with clean, sans-serif typefaces and playful illustrations. The new pyramid The original pyramid, released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1992, featured six sections. The new version is flipped and has three: protein, dairy, and healthy fats; vegetables and fruits; and whole grains. Sweets have been removed. “It’s upside-down, a lot of people would say,” Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., said at a White House press conference. “But it was actually upside-down before and we just righted it.” The new pyramid graphic makes do with fewer groups by combining categories from the original food pyramid. Whole grains, once included in the base of the original pyramid, now make up the smallest portion of the new version, while old categories—fruits and vegetables, and meat and dairy—are combined. The graphic is colorful, with eye-catching, painterly illustrations of example foods that might appear in a ’70s health food magazine. But the infographic is less successful as a piece of communication design. It’s not clear how literally the placement of foods within the graphic is meant to be. And although supporting documents about the new pyramid offer specific guidelines, like suggesting saturated fat consumption shouldn’t exceed 10% of total daily calories, the new pyramid doesn’t communicate specifics itself. Users can hover over each section of the pyramid for additional information, but it doesn’t provide much. The pyramid doesn’t indicate how many servings dairy or healthy fats should you have. And to determine your protein target, realfood.gov asks Americans to take on the additional step of first calculating their weight in kilograms. (Quite frankly, we don’t know what that is.) The federal government’s new guidance, which gets updated every five years, also removes specific recommendations about daily alcohol consumption and only suggests to drink less. It also calls for more protein and full-fat dairy. Government designers have worked to improve upon the food pyramid before. In 2005, an updated graphic made the food segments slice upwards instead of dividing the shape horizontally. In 2011, it ditched the pyramid altogether for MyPlate, a skeuomorphic representation of dietary guidelines that used a circular graphic to represent portions as they’d appear on a plate. The new 2026 pyramid represents the The President administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” priorities under Kennedy’s Health Department and comes two days after the agency cut its number of recommended vaccines for children, worrying medical groups. The new recommendations are not meant to be a strict diet, according to its website, but “a flexible framework meant to guide better choices.” It’s minimalist, for sure, but whether Americans find it a useful guide to healthy living remains to be seen. View the full article

A Word of Mouth Marketing (WOMM) strategy focuses on leveraging customer experiences to promote a brand or product. It relies on genuine interactions, encouraging satisfied customers to share their positive feedback. This approach builds trust and cultivates engagement through exceptional service. Comprehending how WOMM works and its key components can improve your marketing efforts. But what specific tactics can you implement to maximize this strategy’s potential? Key Takeaways A Word of Mouth Marketing (WOMM) strategy encourages consumers to share their positive experiences with a brand, enhancing trust and credibility. Effective WOMM focuses on creating memorable customer experiences that inspire sharing through conversations, social media, or reviews. Engaging influencers and leveraging digital channels can amplify WOMM by expanding reach and increasing visibility of consumer recommendations. Implementing referral programs can boost customer acquisition significantly, encouraging satisfied customers to refer friends and family. Monitoring feedback and addressing negative word of mouth promptly is crucial for maintaining a positive brand reputation and recovering dissatisfied customers. Definition of Word of Mouth Marketing Word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM) refers to the process where consumers share their experiences and opinions about a brand or product, resulting in spontaneous recommendations among their friends, family, and social circles. To define word of mouth marketing, it’s essential to understand that it hinges on genuine consumer interactions, often facilitated through social media, online reviews, and user-generated content. This marketing strategy is considered the most trusted form of advertising, as 88% of consumers prefer personal recommendations over other types. WOMM is likewise cost-effective, relying on authentic endorsements rather than paid promotions, which improves brand loyalty and can lead to increased sales. Engaging with customers through exceptional experiences and attentive service can amplify WOMM, encouraging more sharing and positive discussions about your brand. The Importance of Word of Mouth Marketing Utilizing the strength of consumer recommendations can greatly impact purchasing decisions and boost brand visibility. Word of mouth marketing (WOMM) is trusted by 88% of consumers, making it a critical tool for driving sales. It accounts for 36% of brand discovery among U.S. internet users, highlighting its significance. When you employ effective word of mouth marketing techniques, you can cultivate a loyal customer base, as those acquired through referrals tend to purchase more frequently and remain loyal longer. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits of word of mouth marketing: Benefit Description Impact on Business Increases Trust Consumers trust recommendations over advertising Higher conversion rates Amplifies Visibility Genuine discussions boost brand presence Improved brand awareness Drives Loyalty Referrals lead to repeat customers Longer customer retention Cost-Effective Low-cost compared to traditional marketing Better ROI Rapid Spread of Information Positive experiences shared quickly Increased customer reach How Word of Mouth Marketing Works When customers share their positive experiences with a brand, it creates a ripple effect that markedly influences potential buyers’ purchasing decisions. This is the essence of a word of mouth marketing strategy. When you encourage your customers to share their experiences—whether through personal conversations, social media posts, or reviews—you’re leveraging trust, as approximately 88% of consumers trust recommendations from friends and family more than traditional advertising. To initiate effective WOMM, consider implementing referral programs, engaging with your community, and providing exceptional customer service. Digital platforms further amplify this effect, allowing consumers to quickly and broadly share their opinions, with 36% of U.S. internet users citing WOM as their primary source of discovering brands. Key Components of an Effective Strategy To build an effective word-of-mouth marketing strategy, you’ll want to focus on creating memorable experiences and engaging with influencers. Memorable experiences not only delight customers but additionally encourage them to share their stories, increasing your brand’s visibility. Meanwhile, partnering with influencers can amplify your message, as their endorsements often carry significant weight in shaping consumer opinions and driving purchases. Memorable Experiences Creation Creating memorable experiences is essential for nurturing positive word-of-mouth marketing, as exceptional customer service plays a core role in shaping how customers perceive your brand. When you provide engaging, personalized interactions, like handwritten notes or customized recommendations, you improve emotional connections that lead to organic word-of-mouth promotion. In addition, implementing referral programs can greatly boost word-of-mouth marketing, as referred customers are often 30% to 57% more likely to bring in new clients. Encouraging community engagement through events or social media also creates lasting memories and advocacy, with 75% of consumers believing brand communities enrich their overall experience. In the end, comprehending the benefits of word-of-mouth advertising can help you cultivate loyal customers who willingly share their positive experiences. Engaging Influencer Partnerships Engaging influencer partnerships serves as a crucial component in building an effective word-of-mouth marketing strategy, as these influencers can greatly amplify your brand’s reach and credibility. Research shows that 63% of shoppers are more likely to purchase products recommended by trusted social media influencers, making them valuable advocates for your brand. Micro-influencers often achieve higher engagement rates, averaging 10.3%, owing to their closer connection with audiences. Utilizing product seeding without posting requirements can lead to organic promotion, as demonstrated by Graza’s successful strategy. Tools like Modash help you identify suitable influencers aligned with your brand’s niche. Finally, tracking influencer impact through UTM-tagged links allows you to measure effectiveness accurately, enhancing your WOM marketing strategies and minimizing misattribution. Creating Memorable Customer Experiences When businesses prioritize memorable customer experiences, they tap into a potent driver of word-of-mouth marketing. Creating exceptional experiences encourages customers to share positive stories, amplifying your reach. Research shows that 88% of consumers trust recommendations from friends and family more than any advertisement. By exceeding customer expectations, you can cultivate advocacy and increase the likelihood of referrals. Here’s a table illustrating the benefits of memorable experiences: Aspect Impact on WOMM Example Customer Satisfaction 3x more referrals Personal follow-up calls Personalized Interactions Builds loyalty Customized offers for repeat customers Social Currency Encourages sharing Unique packaging Feedback Engagement Increases purchase frequency Incorporating customer suggestions The advantages of word of mouth advertising stem from these efforts, as satisfied customers become enthusiastic advocates, driving organic growth for your brand. Leveraging Digital Channels for WOMM Digital channels have become vital for amplifying word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM), as they greatly expand the reach and visibility of consumer recommendations. With 36% of U.S. internet users identifying WOM as their primary source for brand discovery, it’s clear that leveraging platforms like social media and online reviews is fundamental. Digital word of mouth marketing effectively captures authentic consumer experiences, making it easier for your brand to gain traction. Utilizing micro-influencers can improve trust and engagement, as they often boast higher engagement rates compared to larger influencers. In addition, implementing share-optimized URLs and features like “Send to a friend” on your digital platforms encourages sharing and tracking, tapping into dark social dynamics where product links are frequently circulated. This strategy not merely increases brand visibility but also leads to higher conversion rates, with referred customers purchasing notably more than those acquired through traditional channels. Embrace these digital tools for effective word of mouth advertising. The Role of Influencers in Word of Mouth Marketing Influencers play a pivotal role in amplifying word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM) by leveraging their authority and reach to sway consumer opinions. Their recommendations can notably affect purchasing decisions, making them crucial allies for brands. Here are some key ways influencers improve WOMM: Higher Engagement: Micro and nano influencers often achieve engagement rates of up to 10.3%, surpassing larger influencers. Authenticity: They share user-generated content, nurturing trust and relatability among their followers. Organic Buzz: Sending products for free can lead to genuine mentions, with 4-5 out of 10 influencers likely to post about them. Measurable Impact: Brands can track traffic and engagement from influencer promotions, ensuring accurate attribution. These word of mouth promotion examples highlight how influencers can drive effective WOMM strategies, boosting brand visibility and consumer trust. Measuring the Success of Word of Mouth Marketing To measure the success of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts, you need to track referrals effectively and analyze brand sentiment. By using tools like Google Analytics, you can pinpoint how customers heard about your brand and which channels drive the most traffic. Furthermore, monitoring customer feedback and discussions will help you understand public perception, allowing you to refine your strategies for better engagement and retention. Tracking Referrals Effectively Effective tracking of referrals is crucial for measuring the success of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts, as it allows you to identify which channels are most beneficial for your business. Here are some strategies to improve your tracking: Use UTM parameters to create unique links for each influencer or referral source, aiding in traffic measurement. Employ tools like Bitly or Switchy to generate trackable URLs, making it easy to monitor clicks. Implement loyalty programs with unique promo codes, simplifying referral tracking. Regularly analyze traffic spikes to uncover untracked referrals from private channels. Analyzing Brand Sentiment Analyzing brand sentiment is vital for comprehending how consumers perceive your brand and the effectiveness of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts. You can measure brand sentiment using tools like SparkToro or Talkwalker, which track online conversations and assess consumer feelings based on social media interactions and reviews. Furthermore, collecting qualitative data by asking customers how they heard about your brand offers valuable insights into your word of mouth ads’ effectiveness. Monitoring engagement through email marketing and loyalty programs helps quantify the impact of referrals on sales. Regularly addressing negative word-of-mouth content is critical for maintaining a positive brand reputation. By tracking brand sentiment over time, you can identify trends and adapt your strategies to improve customer experiences effectively. Encouraging User-Generated Content Encouraging user-generated content (UGC) can greatly improve your brand’s visibility and trustworthiness in today’s digital environment. UGC showcases authentic consumer experiences, which are vital for effective WOM advertising. Here are some strategies to boost UGC: Run Contests or Challenges: Motivate customers to share their experiences through engaging contests or challenges, which can increase participation. Highlight UGC on Social Media: Showcase positive UGC on your brand’s platforms to cultivate community and build trust, as 79% of people find such content trustworthy. Offer Incentives: Provide discounts or features to customers who share their content, prompting a 30% increase in engagement. Utilize Short-Form Videos: Encourage customers to create short-form videos, as 73% of consumers prefer these for product research. Implementing these strategies can considerably improve user-generated content, driving engagement and trust in your brand. Addressing Negative Word of Mouth Though negative word of mouth can spread quickly in today’s digital environment, effectively addressing it is vital for maintaining a positive brand perception. You need to respond to complaints without delay, as studies show that brands engaging with dissatisfied customers can recover up to 70% of them. Transparency and authenticity are important; 85% of consumers prefer brands that acknowledge their shortcomings openly. Utilizing monitoring tools like sentiment analysis can help you track negative mentions and engage proactively with customers, minimizing potential fallout. Moreover, cultivating strong customer relationships through exceptional service and regular engagement reduces the chances of negative word of mouth. Satisfied customers are less likely to share adverse experiences. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Word-Of-Mouth in Marketing? Word-of-mouth in marketing refers to the natural sharing of experiences and recommendations among consumers. It occurs when customers discuss products or services, influencing others’ purchasing decisions. This type of marketing is impactful due to the fact that people tend to trust personal recommendations over advertisements. It can manifest through social media posts, reviews, and direct conversations. Companies can encourage word-of-mouth by creating memorable experiences, ensuring quality products, and maintaining positive customer relationships. What Are the 5 T’s of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing? The 5 T’s of word-of-mouth marketing are Talkers, Topics, Tools, Threads, and Time. Talkers are individuals sharing opinions about your brand, whereas Topics encompass the messages they discuss. Tools are the platforms used for sharing, like social media and blogs. Threads represent the networks through which conversations flow, and Time refers to the timing of discussions, which can impact their relevance and effectiveness. Together, these elements help generate and sustain brand conversations. What Are the Four P’s of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing? The Four P’s of word-of-mouth marketing are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to quality and features that exceed customer expectations, encouraging recommendations. Price involves perceived value; competitive pricing can improve sharing. Place pertains to distribution channels, ensuring easy access for consumers, which facilitates conversations. Finally, Promotion includes strategies like referral programs that stimulate word-of-mouth sharing, effectively generating positive discussions about your brand or product. What Is a Word-Of-Mouth Example? A clear example of word-of-mouth marketing is Ben & Jerry’s. Their unique flavor combinations and social activism encourage customers to share their experiences online and in conversations. Another instance is Glossier, which builds a community of loyal customers who actively promote their products through reviews and social media posts. Both brands effectively leverage satisfied customers to improve visibility, drive engagement, and ultimately increase sales through genuine recommendations and shared experiences. Conclusion In conclusion, a Word of Mouth Marketing strategy is vital for building brand trust and nurturing customer loyalty. By focusing on creating memorable experiences, leveraging influencers, and encouraging user-generated content, you can effectively amplify positive recommendations. Measuring success and addressing negative feedback are fundamental for continuous improvement. Implementing these components will not just improve your brand’s visibility but will additionally drive conversions, making WOMM a significant tool for any marketing strategy. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is a Word of Mouth Marketing Strategy?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A Word of Mouth Marketing (WOMM) strategy focuses on leveraging customer experiences to promote a brand or product. It relies on genuine interactions, encouraging satisfied customers to share their positive feedback. This approach builds trust and cultivates engagement through exceptional service. Comprehending how WOMM works and its key components can improve your marketing efforts. But what specific tactics can you implement to maximize this strategy’s potential? Key Takeaways A Word of Mouth Marketing (WOMM) strategy encourages consumers to share their positive experiences with a brand, enhancing trust and credibility. Effective WOMM focuses on creating memorable customer experiences that inspire sharing through conversations, social media, or reviews. Engaging influencers and leveraging digital channels can amplify WOMM by expanding reach and increasing visibility of consumer recommendations. Implementing referral programs can boost customer acquisition significantly, encouraging satisfied customers to refer friends and family. Monitoring feedback and addressing negative word of mouth promptly is crucial for maintaining a positive brand reputation and recovering dissatisfied customers. Definition of Word of Mouth Marketing Word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM) refers to the process where consumers share their experiences and opinions about a brand or product, resulting in spontaneous recommendations among their friends, family, and social circles. To define word of mouth marketing, it’s essential to understand that it hinges on genuine consumer interactions, often facilitated through social media, online reviews, and user-generated content. This marketing strategy is considered the most trusted form of advertising, as 88% of consumers prefer personal recommendations over other types. WOMM is likewise cost-effective, relying on authentic endorsements rather than paid promotions, which improves brand loyalty and can lead to increased sales. Engaging with customers through exceptional experiences and attentive service can amplify WOMM, encouraging more sharing and positive discussions about your brand. The Importance of Word of Mouth Marketing Utilizing the strength of consumer recommendations can greatly impact purchasing decisions and boost brand visibility. Word of mouth marketing (WOMM) is trusted by 88% of consumers, making it a critical tool for driving sales. It accounts for 36% of brand discovery among U.S. internet users, highlighting its significance. When you employ effective word of mouth marketing techniques, you can cultivate a loyal customer base, as those acquired through referrals tend to purchase more frequently and remain loyal longer. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits of word of mouth marketing: Benefit Description Impact on Business Increases Trust Consumers trust recommendations over advertising Higher conversion rates Amplifies Visibility Genuine discussions boost brand presence Improved brand awareness Drives Loyalty Referrals lead to repeat customers Longer customer retention Cost-Effective Low-cost compared to traditional marketing Better ROI Rapid Spread of Information Positive experiences shared quickly Increased customer reach How Word of Mouth Marketing Works When customers share their positive experiences with a brand, it creates a ripple effect that markedly influences potential buyers’ purchasing decisions. This is the essence of a word of mouth marketing strategy. When you encourage your customers to share their experiences—whether through personal conversations, social media posts, or reviews—you’re leveraging trust, as approximately 88% of consumers trust recommendations from friends and family more than traditional advertising. To initiate effective WOMM, consider implementing referral programs, engaging with your community, and providing exceptional customer service. Digital platforms further amplify this effect, allowing consumers to quickly and broadly share their opinions, with 36% of U.S. internet users citing WOM as their primary source of discovering brands. Key Components of an Effective Strategy To build an effective word-of-mouth marketing strategy, you’ll want to focus on creating memorable experiences and engaging with influencers. Memorable experiences not only delight customers but additionally encourage them to share their stories, increasing your brand’s visibility. Meanwhile, partnering with influencers can amplify your message, as their endorsements often carry significant weight in shaping consumer opinions and driving purchases. Memorable Experiences Creation Creating memorable experiences is essential for nurturing positive word-of-mouth marketing, as exceptional customer service plays a core role in shaping how customers perceive your brand. When you provide engaging, personalized interactions, like handwritten notes or customized recommendations, you improve emotional connections that lead to organic word-of-mouth promotion. In addition, implementing referral programs can greatly boost word-of-mouth marketing, as referred customers are often 30% to 57% more likely to bring in new clients. Encouraging community engagement through events or social media also creates lasting memories and advocacy, with 75% of consumers believing brand communities enrich their overall experience. In the end, comprehending the benefits of word-of-mouth advertising can help you cultivate loyal customers who willingly share their positive experiences. Engaging Influencer Partnerships Engaging influencer partnerships serves as a crucial component in building an effective word-of-mouth marketing strategy, as these influencers can greatly amplify your brand’s reach and credibility. Research shows that 63% of shoppers are more likely to purchase products recommended by trusted social media influencers, making them valuable advocates for your brand. Micro-influencers often achieve higher engagement rates, averaging 10.3%, owing to their closer connection with audiences. Utilizing product seeding without posting requirements can lead to organic promotion, as demonstrated by Graza’s successful strategy. Tools like Modash help you identify suitable influencers aligned with your brand’s niche. Finally, tracking influencer impact through UTM-tagged links allows you to measure effectiveness accurately, enhancing your WOM marketing strategies and minimizing misattribution. Creating Memorable Customer Experiences When businesses prioritize memorable customer experiences, they tap into a potent driver of word-of-mouth marketing. Creating exceptional experiences encourages customers to share positive stories, amplifying your reach. Research shows that 88% of consumers trust recommendations from friends and family more than any advertisement. By exceeding customer expectations, you can cultivate advocacy and increase the likelihood of referrals. Here’s a table illustrating the benefits of memorable experiences: Aspect Impact on WOMM Example Customer Satisfaction 3x more referrals Personal follow-up calls Personalized Interactions Builds loyalty Customized offers for repeat customers Social Currency Encourages sharing Unique packaging Feedback Engagement Increases purchase frequency Incorporating customer suggestions The advantages of word of mouth advertising stem from these efforts, as satisfied customers become enthusiastic advocates, driving organic growth for your brand. Leveraging Digital Channels for WOMM Digital channels have become vital for amplifying word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM), as they greatly expand the reach and visibility of consumer recommendations. With 36% of U.S. internet users identifying WOM as their primary source for brand discovery, it’s clear that leveraging platforms like social media and online reviews is fundamental. Digital word of mouth marketing effectively captures authentic consumer experiences, making it easier for your brand to gain traction. Utilizing micro-influencers can improve trust and engagement, as they often boast higher engagement rates compared to larger influencers. In addition, implementing share-optimized URLs and features like “Send to a friend” on your digital platforms encourages sharing and tracking, tapping into dark social dynamics where product links are frequently circulated. This strategy not merely increases brand visibility but also leads to higher conversion rates, with referred customers purchasing notably more than those acquired through traditional channels. Embrace these digital tools for effective word of mouth advertising. The Role of Influencers in Word of Mouth Marketing Influencers play a pivotal role in amplifying word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM) by leveraging their authority and reach to sway consumer opinions. Their recommendations can notably affect purchasing decisions, making them crucial allies for brands. Here are some key ways influencers improve WOMM: Higher Engagement: Micro and nano influencers often achieve engagement rates of up to 10.3%, surpassing larger influencers. Authenticity: They share user-generated content, nurturing trust and relatability among their followers. Organic Buzz: Sending products for free can lead to genuine mentions, with 4-5 out of 10 influencers likely to post about them. Measurable Impact: Brands can track traffic and engagement from influencer promotions, ensuring accurate attribution. These word of mouth promotion examples highlight how influencers can drive effective WOMM strategies, boosting brand visibility and consumer trust. Measuring the Success of Word of Mouth Marketing To measure the success of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts, you need to track referrals effectively and analyze brand sentiment. By using tools like Google Analytics, you can pinpoint how customers heard about your brand and which channels drive the most traffic. Furthermore, monitoring customer feedback and discussions will help you understand public perception, allowing you to refine your strategies for better engagement and retention. Tracking Referrals Effectively Effective tracking of referrals is crucial for measuring the success of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts, as it allows you to identify which channels are most beneficial for your business. Here are some strategies to improve your tracking: Use UTM parameters to create unique links for each influencer or referral source, aiding in traffic measurement. Employ tools like Bitly or Switchy to generate trackable URLs, making it easy to monitor clicks. Implement loyalty programs with unique promo codes, simplifying referral tracking. Regularly analyze traffic spikes to uncover untracked referrals from private channels. Analyzing Brand Sentiment Analyzing brand sentiment is vital for comprehending how consumers perceive your brand and the effectiveness of your word-of-mouth marketing efforts. You can measure brand sentiment using tools like SparkToro or Talkwalker, which track online conversations and assess consumer feelings based on social media interactions and reviews. Furthermore, collecting qualitative data by asking customers how they heard about your brand offers valuable insights into your word of mouth ads’ effectiveness. Monitoring engagement through email marketing and loyalty programs helps quantify the impact of referrals on sales. Regularly addressing negative word-of-mouth content is critical for maintaining a positive brand reputation. By tracking brand sentiment over time, you can identify trends and adapt your strategies to improve customer experiences effectively. Encouraging User-Generated Content Encouraging user-generated content (UGC) can greatly improve your brand’s visibility and trustworthiness in today’s digital environment. UGC showcases authentic consumer experiences, which are vital for effective WOM advertising. Here are some strategies to boost UGC: Run Contests or Challenges: Motivate customers to share their experiences through engaging contests or challenges, which can increase participation. Highlight UGC on Social Media: Showcase positive UGC on your brand’s platforms to cultivate community and build trust, as 79% of people find such content trustworthy. Offer Incentives: Provide discounts or features to customers who share their content, prompting a 30% increase in engagement. Utilize Short-Form Videos: Encourage customers to create short-form videos, as 73% of consumers prefer these for product research. Implementing these strategies can considerably improve user-generated content, driving engagement and trust in your brand. Addressing Negative Word of Mouth Though negative word of mouth can spread quickly in today’s digital environment, effectively addressing it is vital for maintaining a positive brand perception. You need to respond to complaints without delay, as studies show that brands engaging with dissatisfied customers can recover up to 70% of them. Transparency and authenticity are important; 85% of consumers prefer brands that acknowledge their shortcomings openly. Utilizing monitoring tools like sentiment analysis can help you track negative mentions and engage proactively with customers, minimizing potential fallout. Moreover, cultivating strong customer relationships through exceptional service and regular engagement reduces the chances of negative word of mouth. Satisfied customers are less likely to share adverse experiences. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Word-Of-Mouth in Marketing? Word-of-mouth in marketing refers to the natural sharing of experiences and recommendations among consumers. It occurs when customers discuss products or services, influencing others’ purchasing decisions. This type of marketing is impactful due to the fact that people tend to trust personal recommendations over advertisements. It can manifest through social media posts, reviews, and direct conversations. Companies can encourage word-of-mouth by creating memorable experiences, ensuring quality products, and maintaining positive customer relationships. What Are the 5 T’s of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing? The 5 T’s of word-of-mouth marketing are Talkers, Topics, Tools, Threads, and Time. Talkers are individuals sharing opinions about your brand, whereas Topics encompass the messages they discuss. Tools are the platforms used for sharing, like social media and blogs. Threads represent the networks through which conversations flow, and Time refers to the timing of discussions, which can impact their relevance and effectiveness. Together, these elements help generate and sustain brand conversations. What Are the Four P’s of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing? The Four P’s of word-of-mouth marketing are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to quality and features that exceed customer expectations, encouraging recommendations. Price involves perceived value; competitive pricing can improve sharing. Place pertains to distribution channels, ensuring easy access for consumers, which facilitates conversations. Finally, Promotion includes strategies like referral programs that stimulate word-of-mouth sharing, effectively generating positive discussions about your brand or product. What Is a Word-Of-Mouth Example? A clear example of word-of-mouth marketing is Ben & Jerry’s. Their unique flavor combinations and social activism encourage customers to share their experiences online and in conversations. Another instance is Glossier, which builds a community of loyal customers who actively promote their products through reviews and social media posts. Both brands effectively leverage satisfied customers to improve visibility, drive engagement, and ultimately increase sales through genuine recommendations and shared experiences. Conclusion In conclusion, a Word of Mouth Marketing strategy is vital for building brand trust and nurturing customer loyalty. By focusing on creating memorable experiences, leveraging influencers, and encouraging user-generated content, you can effectively amplify positive recommendations. Measuring success and addressing negative feedback are fundamental for continuous improvement. Implementing these components will not just improve your brand’s visibility but will additionally drive conversions, making WOMM a significant tool for any marketing strategy. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is a Word of Mouth Marketing Strategy?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

GameStop is providing details on a new compensation package for CEO Ryan Cohen that is dependent on him meeting certain “significant” performance targets. The video game retailer said in a regulatory filing on Wednesday that Cohen would have to grow its market capitalization to $100 billion and it would need to hit $10 billion in cumulative performance EBITDA — or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization — for his award to fully vest. GameStop said Cohen won’t receive any guaranteed pay, which it defines as no salary, no cash bonuses, and no stock that simply vests over time. “His compensation is entirely ‘at-risk,’ meaning he will only be paid if the company achieves significant market and operational goals,” GameStop said in the filing. “This structure ensures that Mr. Cohen’s incentives are directly aligned with creating long-term value for GameStop’s stockholders.” The structure is similar to a pay package that Tesla shareholders approved for CEO Elon Musk, in which Musk would receive Tesla stock worth $1 trillion if he hits certain performance targets over the next decade. Cohen’s compensation package with GameStop includes stock options to buy more than 171.5 million common shares for $20.66 each. Shareholders must approve the new pay package at a special meeting in March or April. Shares of GameStop rose 4% to $21.49 in midday trading, giving the company a market cap of roughly $9.26 billion. The company’s shares are down substantially from May 2024 when influential investor Keith Gill, popularly known as “Roaring Kitty,” appeared online for the first time in three years to declare his support for GameStop. Gill helped ignite a “meme” stock craze in early 2021, when GameStop’s stock price soared above $120. —Michelle Chapman, AP business writer View the full article

Square has announced a significant enhancement to its offerings for small business owners by expanding its partnership with Thrive, a leading inventory management system. This new integration aims to simplify the way retailers manage their catalogs, inventory, and sales across both physical and online platforms, specifically focusing on e-commerce functionalities with Shopify. As the retail landscape becomes increasingly complex, especially during busy seasons like the holidays, this integration offers a streamlined solution for sellers. The integration allows Square sellers to create and edit product listings directly within their Square dashboard, ensuring that these updates are automatically reflected on their Shopify storefronts. This feature is particularly important as 50% of Square’s retail sellers operate on multiple sales fronts, complicating inventory management. By enabling real-time synchronization between in-store and online inventory, sellers can avoid issues such as overselling and stock discrepancies, significant concerns for any retail operation. Morgan Kuntze, Global Partnerships Lead at Block, states, “Sellers today increasingly operate across channels, but keeping them in sync shouldn’t multiply their workload.” This sentiment reflects a crucial pain point for many small business owners who often struggle with the demands of multitasking across platforms. The core functionalities offered by the Thrive integration include: Unified Catalog Management: Retailers can create and modify product listings in Square, which will automatically sync to Shopify. This ensures that product information is consistent across both platforms. Real-time Inventory Updates: Square and Shopify will adjust stock quantities bi-directionally, thereby minimizing any risk of overselling. Square as the Source of Truth: All catalog updates occur within the Square system, providing accurate reporting and analytics for businesses across all sales channels. Bach Le, CEO of Thrive, emphasizes, “Thrive Inventory eliminates back office guesswork by automating real-time updates between Square and Shopify.” This integration aims to resolve common issues such as stockouts and overselling, particularly crucial during peak shopping seasons when accurate inventory management can make or break a business. However, while the benefits are compelling, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. Setting up the integration may require time and training, particularly for those who may not be familiar with either platform. Additionally, reliance on a single system for key operations might be concerning for some business owners who prefer to keep multiple data backups. This is something to address when deploying the new systems. Small business owners like Daniel Janelle, owner of Puzzled in Albuquerque, already appreciate the benefits of this integration. He stated, “With our business operating across channels, keeping Square and Shopify in sync was one of our highest priorities. Thrive’s integration solved that instantly – now our inventory, catalog, and reporting all stay consistent, which means fewer errors and more time focused on serving our customers.” For businesses that fit specific criteria, the Thrive integration appears to be advantageous. It serves small retail businesses operating both online and in-store through Square, but it is particularly useful for those managing Shopify storefronts alongside one or multiple Square locations. The Thrive integration is currently available to Square sellers in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, and Spain. Small business owners interested in leveraging this new feature can sign up directly through the Thrive website or contact their sales team for a demo to better understand how the integration can fit into their operations. Square continues to enhance its ecosystem by forming valuable partnerships, which ultimately simplify processes for small business owners and allow them to focus on what they do best—servicing their customers. For further information or to learn more about this integration, visit the original press release at Square’s official release. With the holiday shopping season fast approaching, small business owners may find this integration an invaluable tool in maintaining efficient inventory management and ensuring a smooth operation across their channels. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Square Integrates with Thrive to Streamline Inventory Management for Retailers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Square has announced a significant enhancement to its offerings for small business owners by expanding its partnership with Thrive, a leading inventory management system. This new integration aims to simplify the way retailers manage their catalogs, inventory, and sales across both physical and online platforms, specifically focusing on e-commerce functionalities with Shopify. As the retail landscape becomes increasingly complex, especially during busy seasons like the holidays, this integration offers a streamlined solution for sellers. The integration allows Square sellers to create and edit product listings directly within their Square dashboard, ensuring that these updates are automatically reflected on their Shopify storefronts. This feature is particularly important as 50% of Square’s retail sellers operate on multiple sales fronts, complicating inventory management. By enabling real-time synchronization between in-store and online inventory, sellers can avoid issues such as overselling and stock discrepancies, significant concerns for any retail operation. Morgan Kuntze, Global Partnerships Lead at Block, states, “Sellers today increasingly operate across channels, but keeping them in sync shouldn’t multiply their workload.” This sentiment reflects a crucial pain point for many small business owners who often struggle with the demands of multitasking across platforms. The core functionalities offered by the Thrive integration include: Unified Catalog Management: Retailers can create and modify product listings in Square, which will automatically sync to Shopify. This ensures that product information is consistent across both platforms. Real-time Inventory Updates: Square and Shopify will adjust stock quantities bi-directionally, thereby minimizing any risk of overselling. Square as the Source of Truth: All catalog updates occur within the Square system, providing accurate reporting and analytics for businesses across all sales channels. Bach Le, CEO of Thrive, emphasizes, “Thrive Inventory eliminates back office guesswork by automating real-time updates between Square and Shopify.” This integration aims to resolve common issues such as stockouts and overselling, particularly crucial during peak shopping seasons when accurate inventory management can make or break a business. However, while the benefits are compelling, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. Setting up the integration may require time and training, particularly for those who may not be familiar with either platform. Additionally, reliance on a single system for key operations might be concerning for some business owners who prefer to keep multiple data backups. This is something to address when deploying the new systems. Small business owners like Daniel Janelle, owner of Puzzled in Albuquerque, already appreciate the benefits of this integration. He stated, “With our business operating across channels, keeping Square and Shopify in sync was one of our highest priorities. Thrive’s integration solved that instantly – now our inventory, catalog, and reporting all stay consistent, which means fewer errors and more time focused on serving our customers.” For businesses that fit specific criteria, the Thrive integration appears to be advantageous. It serves small retail businesses operating both online and in-store through Square, but it is particularly useful for those managing Shopify storefronts alongside one or multiple Square locations. The Thrive integration is currently available to Square sellers in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, and Spain. Small business owners interested in leveraging this new feature can sign up directly through the Thrive website or contact their sales team for a demo to better understand how the integration can fit into their operations. Square continues to enhance its ecosystem by forming valuable partnerships, which ultimately simplify processes for small business owners and allow them to focus on what they do best—servicing their customers. For further information or to learn more about this integration, visit the original press release at Square’s official release. With the holiday shopping season fast approaching, small business owners may find this integration an invaluable tool in maintaining efficient inventory management and ensuring a smooth operation across their channels. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Square Integrates with Thrive to Streamline Inventory Management for Retailers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Octopuses are brilliant, emotional, and mysterious. Can they ever be farmed humanely? And if they can, should they be? Fast Company contributor Clint Rainey is the first journalist in the world to be let inside a cutting-edge effort to build the first commercial octopus farm. Exclusive documentary. Coming in 2026. Check out the full article: https://www.fastcompany.com/91448602/octopus-could-be-the-next-commercially-farmed-seafood-should-it-be View the full article

Blackstone stock fell by as much as 9.3% after The President said he was "immediately taking steps to ban large institutional investors from buying more single-family homes." View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. After a decade, Stranger Things is at an end. Well, I mean, except for planned animated and live-action spin-offs...and possibly an unlikely secret extra episode related to the 'Conformity Gate' theory; adherents are convinced that the whole thing we watched was just Vecna messing with our Hawkins crew. But the story that started way back in 2016 is mostly over, almost for sure! Given the pace of life these days, the end of the Obama administration feels, somehow, as distant as the series' nostalgic 1980s setting. The show solidified Netflix as the streamer to beat in terms of original programming, and introduced a new generation of child stars who are all now firmly adults. The show's blend of nostalgia, horror, and small-town weirdness has been wildly influential (and endlessly copied), but its success is based, also, on its synthesis and deft reworking of deeply familiar elements. In that spirit, here are a few shows of the past and present that, in various ways, carry some of those Stranger vibes. From (2022 – ) Travel to The Town (we never get a name for it), a palce from which no one can ever leave. The residents and visitors aren't metaphorically trapped, but literally so, as in the later seasons of Stranger Things, as they are beset by creatures come from the woods that kill anyone found outside after dark. The Matthews family learn all about this firsthand when they roll into the place in their RV and soon find themselves trapped alongside the local sheriff (Harold Perrineau) just as it's getting dark. The monsters here aren't just mindlessly hungry, they're cunning and sadistic, and more than capable of killing residents in gory ways. It's a supernatural spin on the "small towns ain't what they seem" vibe. Stream From on MGM+. From (2022 – ) at MGM+ Learn More Learn More at MGM+ I Am Not Okay With This (2020) Sophia Lillis, straight from playing Beverly Marsh in the It movies, stars as Sydney Novak, a 17-year-old living in a small town with her mother and sister. Her father recently died by suicide; she has a crush on her best friend; and all she and her mother do is argue. In the middle of all of that, she discovers that she had powers triggered by her emotions, both of which she'll need to learn to control if she wants to get her life in order. As the lead, Lillis sells the hell out of this offbeat coming-of-age story which was canceled after one season. Because of course it was. Stream I Am Not Okay With This on Netflix. I Am Not Okay With This (2020) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Pluribus (2025 – ) Complete tonal mismatch here aside, there are few stranger shows streaming right now than this weird sci-fi apocalypse from Breaking Bad's Vince Gilligan. Rhea Seehorn plays Carol Sturka, a fantasy romance author and general grouch who becomes one of only 13 people on the planet immune to the "Joining"—the result of an alien virus that transforms the rest of humanity into a peaceful, perky, and perpetually content hive mind. Carol refuses to surrender her miserableness in the face of a loss of identity, fighting instead to restore humanity to its admittedly cruddy ways. Thrilling, heartbreaking, and oddly funny, the show manages to address some big questions about what it means to be human, and what we'd be willing to give up to change. Stream Pluribus on Apple TV+. Pluribus (2025 – ) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ Haven (2010 – 2015) There are few (if any) teens here, but Haven (based on the Stephen King short story "The Colorado Kid") has got the "weird stuff goes down in a small town" vibe down pat. Emily Rose stars as Audrey Parker, an FBI Special Agent sent to the title town of Haven, Maine on a routine case. Soon, she gets drawn into “the Troubles," a series of harmful supernatural events that have recurred throughout the town’s history—and, by no coincidence, are happening again. A supernatural-case-of-the-week format gives way to a bigger mystery when Audrey comes to learn that this isn’t her first time in Haven, nor the first time she’s encountered the Troubles. Lucas Bryant and Eric Balfour co-star. Stream Haven on Peacock and Prime Video. Haven (2010 – 2015) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Dark (2017 – 2020) Dark began as a mystery involving a missing child and evolved, over its three seasons, into a wildly complex narrative: a time travel-driven story that explores dark family secrets over the course of several generations. The German import has a striking look and incredibly atmospheric feel, with an ensemble cast of teens and adults whose narratives are deftly intertwined. Especially given the title, you'd be absolutely right to assume that the tone here is quite a bit more dark than that of Stranger Things, but the shows have plenty in common, including an interest in the '80s. Stream Dark on Netflix. Dark (2017 – 2020) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Fear Street (2021 – ) Not a series, precisely, but a series of movies that play out like a miniseries (at least initially), and that play in the retro-nostalgia horror-vibe that Stranger Things does so well. Adapted from the R. L. Stine books, Fear Street Part One: 1994 kicks off the series by introducing the town of Shadyside, which the local kids call “Shittyside,” and has a dark history of multiple murders, most of them covered up. A group of teens upsets the grave of a witch, kicking off the revival of a murderous cult. There are some legit gore and scares (it’s YA, more or less, but definitely not kids’ stuff) as Janiak pays homage to a wide range of horror movies past. The series continues with an impeccable camp slasher homage in Fear Street Part Two: 1978, and then an origin tale that brings the initial trilogy to a conclusion in Fear Street Part Three: 1666. There's a standalone fourth film, as well, and more on the way, but you're fine sticking with the initial trilogy. Stream Fear Street Part One: 1994 on Netflix. Fear Street at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Paper Girls (2022) This would be the easiest possible recommendation for Stranger Things fans, were it not for the fact that the well-reviewed show was cancelled after one season (though it still ends with a fairly satisfying wrap up). Based on the pretty great comic book series from Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang, the show follows four young friends—Erin, Tiff, Mac, and KJ—on their paper route the morning after Halloween in 1988. After the skies turn pink and they're accosted by competing groups of weirdos, they head for the safety of Erin's house, only to discover they're suddenly in 2019. Made into targets by their inadvertent time travel, the girls have to stay alive while also deciding whether they want to take the chance to change their own timelines. Stream Paper Girls on Prime Video. Paper Girls (2022) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Tales From the Loop (2020) A gorgeous-looking anthology (sort of), Tales From the Loop takes place in the small town of Mercer, Ohio—a town that happens to sit upon the titular Loop, a physics lab exploring mysteries for which science has no answers. Each episode offers the story of a person or family in the town impacted by the work of the Loop, in slow-burning stories about the intersection of technology and human existence. It’s based on a conceptual art book by artist Simon Stålenhag, and successfully ports over that book’s striking look and feel. It's far quieter and more meditative than something like Stranger Things, but worth your time if that's your mood. Stream Tales from the Loop on Prime Video. Tales from the Loop (2020) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Midnight Club (2022) The least buzzy of Mike Flanagan's Netflix offerings is every bit as good as Midnight Mass, The Fall of the House of Usher, et al. Based on the YA novel by Christopher Pike, it follows a group of eight terminally ill young patients at a bucolic hospice home run by a secretive and mysterious doctor (A Nightmare on Elm Street's Heather Langenkamp). Each night the kids meet secretly to share scary stories, with each also promising to return from beyond the grave when the time comes. Spooky and surprisingly moving, the show was planned as more than a miniseries, and the cancellation left some questions unanswered, but the ending is still pretty satisfying. Stream The Midnight Club on Netflix. The Midnight Club (2022) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Twin Peaks (1990 – 1991, 2017) Teens and adults in a deceptively quiet small town (in the '80s, no less) face tragedy accompanied by supernatural threats from outside of our normal space and time. That's a reasonably fair synopsis of both Stranger Things and Twin Peaks, but it also serves to obscure the massive tonal differences between the two shows. Kyle MacLachlan plays FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper, who arrives in the title town to investigate the murder of teenager homecoming queen Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee). His arrival in town precipitates a (very) long night of the soul as Cooper uncovers secrets and mysteries among the town's delightfully, and often disturbingly, weird residents. Stream Twin Peaks on Paramount+ or buy episodes from Prime Video. Twin Peaks at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Alice in Borderland (2020 – ) The Upside Down of Stranger Things is a dark, challenging, chaotic mirror to our own reality—so imagine a similarly sinister parallel space, now with a bit more obvious structure. Video-game obsessed Arisu gets his wish, after a fashion, when he finds himself, along with a couple of friends, transported to an alternate, eerily abandoned version of Tokyo—the title’s Borderland—vividly brought to life via some clever green screen work. The three are directed to an arena and given the instructions for the game, which they’ll be playing whether they want to or not. The first competition involves a locked-room-style puzzle; if they fail, the room goes up in flames with them in it—think Ready Player One, with deadlier stakes. There are games each night, though the rules allow for winners to get time off. There are a lot of rules, actually, but the games are cleverly and sadistically constructed. Stream Alice in Borderland on Netflix. Alice in Borderland at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix School Spirits (2023– ) Peyton List stars as Maddie, a teenager in small-town Wisconsin for whom her death is very much just the beginning. Stuck in a high school in the afterlife (because hell is definitely for children), she goes on a journey to solve her own murder while uncovering secrets and lies in both worlds. It all sounds a bit grim, but the show has a sense of fun about it: While Maddie does develop the ability to communicate with the living, her world is populated by ghost teens from various eras and generations, with customs, mores, and cliques having developed in ghost high school just as in our world. Stream School Spirits on Paramount+ or buy episodes from Prime Video. School Spirits (2023– ) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Goosebumps (2023 – ) Taking a turn off of Fear Street, we return to R.L. Stine—who is, after all, our reigning master of YA horror (his name appearing on well over 300 books). In contrast with earlier adaptations, this series ditches the episodic anthology format of the 1990s series in favor of a more anthologized teen drama, probably in direct response to the popularity of Stranger Things. The first season is set in the present (while involving a mystery from the past), so skips the nostalgic charms (and traps) of the Netflix series, finding a modern group of teens in a weird town encountering the various monsters and scares (many of them legitimately freaky). Each season shifts the focus to a new story, with a new cast of actors in their mid-20s playing teens. Stream Goosebumps on Disney+. Goosebumps (2023 - ) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Yellowjackets (2021 – ) This time-jumping survival drama is about a group of teenage girls becoming stranded in the wilderness in 1996 and doing terrible things to survive—the extent of which we only learn about via flashbacks from the present, where the events of those 19 months continue to have an impact. There are teases of the supernatural here, much of it ambiguous, but there's plenty of horror in a past that we're still seeing fleshed (ahem) out. Where Stranger Things revels in its '80s setting, Yellowjackets more cynically posits that there's a huge difference between the version of the past we talk about and the one that really happened. Stream Yellowjackets on Paramount+ (the first two seasons are also on Netflix) or you can buy episodes from Prime Video. Yellowjackets (2021 – ) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Gravity Falls (2012 – 2016) The much-loved, if relatively short-lived, animated series follows twin siblings Mabel and Dipper Pines (Kristen Schaal and Jason Ritter) sent to spend the summer with their great-uncle (aka "Grunkle") Stan (voiced by show creator Alex Hirsch). While helping Stan run his mystery-themed tourist shack, the kids run into a series of supernatural mysteries, many related to the show's ultimate antagonist, dream demon Bill Cipher. Like Stranger Things, the series came to a planned conclusion (albeit after four years rather than ten), and it's finale was similarly a ratings blockbuster—the highest rated telecast in the history of Disney XD, as a matter of fact. Stream Gravity Falls on Disney+ and Hulu. Gravity Falls (2012 – 2016) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ View the full article

U.S. employers posted far fewer jobs in November than the previous month, a sign that employers aren’t yet ramping up hiring even as growth has picked up. Businesses and government agencies posted 7.1 million open jobs at the end of November, the Labor Department said Wednesday, down from 7.4 million in October. Layoffs also dropped, however, as companies appear to be holding onto workers even as they are reluctant to add staff. The report suggests that the “low-hire, low-fire” job market remains in effect, with workers enjoying some job security but those out of work struggling to find new jobs. The moribund labor market stands in contrast with data showing solid economic growth, which topped 4% at an annual rate in last year’s July-September quarter, the latest data available. Economists forecast growth slowed but remained solid in the final three months of 2025. A key question for this year is whether hiring will pickup to match healthy growth, or whether sluggish job gains will eventually drag down the economy. There is a third possibility: Automation and artificial intelligence could enable steady economic growth without creating many jobs. Further insights into that question will emerge Friday when the monthly jobs report for December will be released. The number of postings in November was the fewest since September 2024. But outside that month, it was the lowest in nearly five years. Open jobs in November fell sharply in shipping and warehousing, restaurants and hotels, and in state and local government. They rose in retail and construction. The number of Americans who quit their jobs ticked higher in November, which is seen as a good sign, because workers typically quit when they are more confident they can find a better job, or already have one. Yet quits remained historically low, at 3.16 million, up from just under 3 million in October. The figures provide some critical measures of the job market after last fall’s government shutdown delayed the release of data on hiring and inflation. Wednesday’s report is known as the job openings and labor turnover survey, or JOLTS, and provides key insights into the state of hiring and firing. Separately, payroll provider ADP said Wednesday that businesses added 41,000 jobs in December, an improvement after they shed 29,000 positions in November. ADP’s report is based on anonymous payroll records the company maintains for 26 million employees. Small firms — with fewer than 50 workers — added 9,000 jobs, an encouraging reversal after they shed jobs in previous months. Smaller firms have been hard-hit by President Donald The President’s tariffs, with less ability to absorb or pass on the costs compared with larger companies, economists say. “It is a slower labor market,” said Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP. “The labor market isn’t falling off a cliff. We still see some job growth, and we don’t see an uptick in layoffs.” The Bank of America Institute, which tracks changes in the number of paychecks landing in its customers’ accounts, said it saw signs that hiring picked up in December. Job gains rose to 0.6% in December, compared with a year earlier, up from just 0.2% in November. “It does look like, in our data, that the worst of the slowdown could be behind us,” David Tinsley, senior economist at Bank of America Institute, said in a call with reporters. —Christopher Rugaber, AP economics writer View the full article

Everybody knows this coworker—the one who spirals about cost-cutting layoffs when snacks vanish from the break room. The one who thinks they’re getting fired because their boss hasn’t been using emojis with them lately. The one who’s the office Chicken Little: anxious, somewhat frantic, often misguided . . . and who can’t stop talking to others about whatever it is they’re anxious about. This person—and it could be you—may be justified, as it makes sense for employees to be nervous right now: layoffs are at an all-time high, and January is a common month for layoffs. But for the office Chicken Little, it’s not the dismal mass termination numbers alone that are scary: It’s the unknown future that’s sending them into sustained panic mode. “Uncertainty is a huge trigger to the stress response” in the body, says physician Esther Sternberg, who’s long studied the effects of stress on humans. Fast Company spoke with several psychology experts who shared what makes someone more prone to anxiety spirals and loops, tips for dealing with their unending office pessimism, and how to escape your own layoff-related worries. What causes anxiety spirals People who quickly turn even minorly negative information into potential catastrophes “tend to be really high in neuroticism,” says clinical psychologist Melanie McNally. Neuroticism, one of psychology’s “Big Five” personality traits, measures one’s disposition in the face of negative emotions. Think of the coworker who just knows they’re getting axed after being left off a group email—when in reality the person who sent it genuinely just forgot. “A minor budget cut isn’t just a cost-saving measure” to these folks, says organizational psychologist Ali Shehab. Instead, the misplaced vigilance takes it as a “sign that the company is failing. ‘I will be fired, and I will never find a job again’.” This is often seen as a protective mechanism that attempts to provide certainty amidst stress-inducing uncertainty. When working with this “glass-half-empty” type in the past, Yvonne Castañeda, a social worker specializing in trauma, says she’s noticed that contentment seems to feel “scary” or “wrong” for some folks, or that safety can’t be trusted. This could come from their upbringing: Parents who were perhaps overly worried and dwelt on potential dangers left this person with a mindset that they’re not going to be okay. The mindset could even manifest after a traumatic event, like a loss, after which the person feels like they don’t deserve or “want to be happy again,” says Castañeda. But McNally says these people might just have “limited social support.” Perhaps they can’t go home at the end of the workday and bounce their concerns off friends or family for a calming ear and alternative perspective, and then coworkers end up becoming their primary outlet for airing worries. For David Rosmarin, associate professor at Harvard Medical School and founder of the Center for Anxiety, the description of this archetype is much simpler. “They’re called ‘Americans’,” he says. Such behavior “doesn’t even come from being pessimistic. It comes from control.” As Americans, he adds, we’re taught to banish feelings of discomfort as soon as they visit us. With the prevailing cultural interest in instant gratification and immediate answers to any query, it’s no surprise that many experience what Rosmarin calls “intolerance of uncertainty,” whether it’s about the weather or our job security. But the irony is that obsessing with certainty just fuels anxiety. Navigating this energy at work While some workers vent fears to others—either out of fear, a desire for control, or simply a need for a sounding board—McNally reminds us that emotions are “contagious.” “Most likely, you’re spreading stress” if you indulge in the anxiety spiral, she says. And for those around the person, “it’s very easy to get sucked into that tornado,” Castañeda adds. “Maybe you attempt to say something to cheer them up, it backfires, and suddenly you’re in conflict.” Still, experts who spoke with Fast Company note that it’s helpful to share anxiety with others. The mental health benefits of having people you can trust at work are real. But when people regularly act on that compulsion to vocalize fears, to the point that it spreads unnecessary stress, it’s best for colleagues to set boundaries. “If the conversation is becoming cyclical and harmful,” says Shehab, the move is to “gently disengage.” You can say that you hear the person is worried, but right now you need to concentrate on an important deadline. “’Let’s focus on the work we can control for the next hour,’” Shehab suggests communicating. Experts generally recommend acknowledging and validating an anxious colleague’s concerns before trying to help them change their outlook. Dismissing someone’s fears or telling them to “calm down,” says McNally, “does not work.” Instead, just listen—if you’re feeling grounded and open enough to hearing them out without spiraling yourself. “Hold the space. Don’t try to make it better,” Castañeda suggests. “You’re not going to do that.” Rosmarin suggests “reflective listening,” a “basic psychotherapy technique” that tends to make people feel at ease and understood. For example, imagine a coworker says, “’I’m freaking out about layoffs. They happened this time last year, and I can tell that they’re going to happen again’.” You can respond with something like, “Yeah, you’re right about last year, and that is totally scary to think about.” Validating the feelings of someone who’s spiraling can help ground them by making them feel heard—so at least they’re not anxious about having unfounded anxieties. Shehab also suggests using facts to pin down the anxiety’s source. “’What concrete evidence do we have that a layoff is happening today?’” Shehab suggests posing to a concerned coworker (or yourself). “’What are the actual company metrics right now?’” This, he says, “engages the prefrontal cortex”: the part of the brain responsible for rational thought that often gets “hijacked by the hyperactive amygdala,” the brain’s fear center, during anxiety loops. Research shows that venting can be helpful, but that’s only true for a few minutes before it becomes counterproductive. McNally suggests setting a timer for three to four minutes. When the timer goes off, transition to a new activity that’s going to totally occupy your attention—like dancing to an all-time favorite song, or cooking dinner with your family. Validate the fear, act with empathy, and then ground the fear in the present with facts and gently challenging reframes. Nipping the spiral in the bud Whether it’s with nervous colleagues, or yourself, look for “what’s at the root of the anxiety,” Rosmarin says. Are you most concerned about rent payments? It could help to work on outlining a new personal budget in case of layoffs. Is thinking about finding a new job the biggest stressor? Update your résumé and start networking. Letting go mentally, and grounding yourself in calm action, can change your physiological reaction to anxiety: “There’s less adrenaline flowing through your system” when you do that, says Rosmarin. In “high-stress, high-control” situations, says Sternberg, “you’re actually energized.” Facing a possible layoff is high-stress, low-control—but facing it while applying for new jobs gives you back some control, and can alleviate some of the negative stress feelings. Otherwise, adds Sternberg, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising to reduce anxiety. Again, it all comes down to uncertainty . . . and learning to live with it. If you can help your colleague (or yourself) accept it or use it to fuel productivity, the more likely everyone is to avoid anxiety spirals. “The question isn’t whether you can control the outcome,” says Rosmarin. It’s “embracing the fact that we’re not fully in the driver’s seat.” View the full article

Wheelchairs are available at airports, hotels, resorts, theme parks, and on cruises, but standard wheelchairs require ongoing effort and can struggle through difficult terrain. Standard wheelchairs are simply less capable than electric ones. WheelMove wants to change that. WheelMove is a portable wheelchair attachment that turns any standard wheelchair into an electric one, allowing people to travel more easily wherever they are. It debuted at CES 2026, marking a significant leap in accessibility for wheelchair users who travel. When I found WheelMove at CES "Unveiled," I thought back to a recent family trip just two weeks ago, where two of my older family members often rented wheelchairs. They don't use wheelchairs in their day-to-day lives, but walking through a theme park all day wasn't possible. They needed support navigating the park, and the rest of us gladly took shifts pushing their wheelchairs. With a portable attachment like WheelMove, though, wheelchair users can use less effort and enjoy more independence through the battery-powered, remote-controlled attachment. Credit: Iyaz Akhtar Riders simply attach WheelMove to the front of any standard wheelchair, and the device lifts the wheelchair's smaller front wheels off the ground. Once attached, the rider controls the WheelMove through a basic remote control on their armrest, thigh, or wherever is most comfortable. The attachment weighs under 20 pounds, including its 10-inch wheel, 250W motor, and a battery that goes about 15 miles on a charge. Carrying an additional battery can double its range before needing to recharge, and it can navigate terrains including gravel, grass, and uneven surfaces like cobblestone. WheelMove is an incredibly innovative assistive technology poised to broaden personal mobility for those who need it, and it's also one of the finalists for the official Best of CES 2026 awards for the travel category. Pre-orders are available in France where the start-up is based, but the founders plan to expand internationally later this year. It costs about €5,000 or $6,000. View the full article

United Arab Emirates-funded trip underscores growing international interest in Reform UKView the full article

Changes in the Budget mean landlords are facing higher bills over the next three yearsView the full article

Adding music to your video can greatly improve its overall quality and engagement. To get started, you’ll want to choose a video editing platform that supports multitrack editing, which allows for more flexibility. Next, selecting the right music that matches the tone of your video is essential. Once you’ve imported your chosen track, you’ll edit and sync it with your visuals for a cohesive result. Ready to learn how to execute each step effectively? Key Takeaways Choose a video editing platform like Riverside that supports multitrack editing and has a user-friendly interface. Select music that aligns with your video’s tone from royalty-free sources or built-in libraries. Import your chosen music by accessing the video dashboard and adding it to the editing timeline. Edit and sync the audio track by trimming, adjusting volume levels, and applying fade-ins and fade-outs. Export your video with the correct resolution and aspect ratio, ensuring audio is well-balanced before sharing. Choose a Video Editing Platform When you’re ready to add music to your video, the first step is choosing a video editing platform that meets your needs. Select a platform that supports multitrack editing, like Riverside, which makes it easy to integrate and customize audio tracks. Make sure it provides access to a library of royalty-free music or allows you to upload your own tracks to avoid copyright issues. Look for crucial features such as fading in and out, volume adjustments, and the ability to sync music with video clips for a polished result. Furthermore, check the export options, including resolution and aspect ratios suitable for various social media channels. A user-friendly interface with helpful tutorials can greatly improve your editing experience and streamline learning how to add music to a video. Select the Right Music How do you select the right music for your video? Start by choosing tracks that align with your video’s tone. Upbeat music suits promotional content, whereas calm melodies work for tutorials. Consider the emotional impact; the right track can improve storytelling and engage viewers. Pay attention to genre and mood, as these factors greatly shape your audience’s perception. To simplify your search, utilize royalty-free music sources like Bensound, Pixabay, and Soundstripe, ensuring legal use and avoiding copyright issues. Moreover, take advantage of built-in music libraries in editing platforms, like Riverside, to quickly find suitable tracks. Import Music Into Your Video Importing music into your video is a straightforward process that can greatly improve its quality and engagement. To add music to video using Riverside, first access the dashboard and select your video. Click the “Music” icon in the right toolbar to insert audio to video, allowing you to choose from available tracks. Use the “+” button to add audio to MP4 and place it on the editing timeline. Make sure the music track is trimmed and positioned correctly to sync with key moments in your video. Adjust the volume settings for clarity, so dialogue remains audible. Finally, implement fade-ins and fade-outs for smooth changes, enhancing the overall viewing experience of your video. Edit and Sync Your Music Track After you’ve successfully imported your music, the next step focuses on editing and syncing your music track. To effectively add sound to video, follow these steps: Trim the audio in your video editor’s timeline to match the length of your clips. Use the “Zoom” slider to view the audio waveform for precise adjustments that sync with key moments. Adjust the volume levels of your music track, ensuring it complements dialogue, typically setting it lower for clarity. Implement fade-ins and fade-outs on your music track for smooth shifts, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Export Your Video Masterpiece Exporting your video masterpiece is a crucial step in the editing process, and it requires careful attention to detail. Choose dimensions that suit your platform, like 16:9 for YouTube or 9:16 for TikTok. Select a resolution, ranging from 720p to 2160p, for the best quality. Riverside provides options to remove watermarks, normalize audio levels, and reduce background noise during export, ensuring a polished final product. Setting Options Dimensions 16:9 (YouTube), 9:16 (TikTok) Resolution 720p, 1080p, 2160p Watermark Removal Yes Audio Normalization Yes After adjusting your settings, click “Export video.” Always review your work to confirm audio levels and music synchronization before sharing. Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Add Music in a Simple Video? To add music to a simple video, start by choosing a video editing software that allows audio integration. Import your video and the music track, guaranteeing it’s royalty-free. Drag the audio onto the timeline, aligning it with your video clips. Adjust the length as needed, and use volume controls to make certain dialogue remains clear during the music complements the visuals. Finally, export your finished video in the desired format for sharing. What Is the Best Free App to Add Music to a Video? For adding music to your videos, iMovie stands out for Mac and iPhone users, offering a vast library of soundtracks and effects. If you’re on Android, Google Photos simplifies the process with its easy-to-use interface and music options. Windows users can rely on Clipchamp, which includes audio editing features. Furthermore, apps like Add Audio to Video and Add Music to Video Editor provide quick solutions for seamless integration of local music and voiceovers. How to Transition Music in a Video? To shift music in a video effectively, start with fade-in and fade-out effects for smooth audio shifts at track beginnings and ends. Sync music changes with key visuals, enhancing the overall impact. Adjust volume levels to lower background music during dialogue, ensuring clarity. Implement crossfades to blend tracks seamlessly, maintaining rhythm. Regularly preview shifts in your editing software to fine-tune timing, ensuring the music supports the narrative without distracting the audience. How Do I Add Music to My Clips Video? To add music to your clips, start by accessing your video editing software. Look for the music or audio section, where you can upload your chosen track or select from a library. Trim the track as needed, adjust its position, and modify the volume to fit your video. Utilize fade-in and fade-out effects for smooth shifts, and make certain the music is royalty-free to avoid copyright issues before exporting your final product. Conclusion By following these five straightforward steps, you can effectively add music to your video, enhancing its overall appeal. Choosing the right video editing platform, selecting fitting music, and synchronizing the audio will guarantee a polished final product. After editing, exporting your video in the appropriate format allows for easy sharing across various platforms. With careful attention to each step, you’ll create a compelling multimedia experience that resonates with your audience. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Add Music to Video: A Step-by-Step Guide for Creators" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Adding music to your video can greatly improve its overall quality and engagement. To get started, you’ll want to choose a video editing platform that supports multitrack editing, which allows for more flexibility. Next, selecting the right music that matches the tone of your video is essential. Once you’ve imported your chosen track, you’ll edit and sync it with your visuals for a cohesive result. Ready to learn how to execute each step effectively? Key Takeaways Choose a video editing platform like Riverside that supports multitrack editing and has a user-friendly interface. Select music that aligns with your video’s tone from royalty-free sources or built-in libraries. Import your chosen music by accessing the video dashboard and adding it to the editing timeline. Edit and sync the audio track by trimming, adjusting volume levels, and applying fade-ins and fade-outs. Export your video with the correct resolution and aspect ratio, ensuring audio is well-balanced before sharing. Choose a Video Editing Platform When you’re ready to add music to your video, the first step is choosing a video editing platform that meets your needs. Select a platform that supports multitrack editing, like Riverside, which makes it easy to integrate and customize audio tracks. Make sure it provides access to a library of royalty-free music or allows you to upload your own tracks to avoid copyright issues. Look for crucial features such as fading in and out, volume adjustments, and the ability to sync music with video clips for a polished result. Furthermore, check the export options, including resolution and aspect ratios suitable for various social media channels. A user-friendly interface with helpful tutorials can greatly improve your editing experience and streamline learning how to add music to a video. Select the Right Music How do you select the right music for your video? Start by choosing tracks that align with your video’s tone. Upbeat music suits promotional content, whereas calm melodies work for tutorials. Consider the emotional impact; the right track can improve storytelling and engage viewers. Pay attention to genre and mood, as these factors greatly shape your audience’s perception. To simplify your search, utilize royalty-free music sources like Bensound, Pixabay, and Soundstripe, ensuring legal use and avoiding copyright issues. Moreover, take advantage of built-in music libraries in editing platforms, like Riverside, to quickly find suitable tracks. Import Music Into Your Video Importing music into your video is a straightforward process that can greatly improve its quality and engagement. To add music to video using Riverside, first access the dashboard and select your video. Click the “Music” icon in the right toolbar to insert audio to video, allowing you to choose from available tracks. Use the “+” button to add audio to MP4 and place it on the editing timeline. Make sure the music track is trimmed and positioned correctly to sync with key moments in your video. Adjust the volume settings for clarity, so dialogue remains audible. Finally, implement fade-ins and fade-outs for smooth changes, enhancing the overall viewing experience of your video. Edit and Sync Your Music Track After you’ve successfully imported your music, the next step focuses on editing and syncing your music track. To effectively add sound to video, follow these steps: Trim the audio in your video editor’s timeline to match the length of your clips. Use the “Zoom” slider to view the audio waveform for precise adjustments that sync with key moments. Adjust the volume levels of your music track, ensuring it complements dialogue, typically setting it lower for clarity. Implement fade-ins and fade-outs on your music track for smooth shifts, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Export Your Video Masterpiece Exporting your video masterpiece is a crucial step in the editing process, and it requires careful attention to detail. Choose dimensions that suit your platform, like 16:9 for YouTube or 9:16 for TikTok. Select a resolution, ranging from 720p to 2160p, for the best quality. Riverside provides options to remove watermarks, normalize audio levels, and reduce background noise during export, ensuring a polished final product. Setting Options Dimensions 16:9 (YouTube), 9:16 (TikTok) Resolution 720p, 1080p, 2160p Watermark Removal Yes Audio Normalization Yes After adjusting your settings, click “Export video.” Always review your work to confirm audio levels and music synchronization before sharing. Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Add Music in a Simple Video? To add music to a simple video, start by choosing a video editing software that allows audio integration. Import your video and the music track, guaranteeing it’s royalty-free. Drag the audio onto the timeline, aligning it with your video clips. Adjust the length as needed, and use volume controls to make certain dialogue remains clear during the music complements the visuals. Finally, export your finished video in the desired format for sharing. What Is the Best Free App to Add Music to a Video? For adding music to your videos, iMovie stands out for Mac and iPhone users, offering a vast library of soundtracks and effects. If you’re on Android, Google Photos simplifies the process with its easy-to-use interface and music options. Windows users can rely on Clipchamp, which includes audio editing features. Furthermore, apps like Add Audio to Video and Add Music to Video Editor provide quick solutions for seamless integration of local music and voiceovers. How to Transition Music in a Video? To shift music in a video effectively, start with fade-in and fade-out effects for smooth audio shifts at track beginnings and ends. Sync music changes with key visuals, enhancing the overall impact. Adjust volume levels to lower background music during dialogue, ensuring clarity. Implement crossfades to blend tracks seamlessly, maintaining rhythm. Regularly preview shifts in your editing software to fine-tune timing, ensuring the music supports the narrative without distracting the audience. How Do I Add Music to My Clips Video? To add music to your clips, start by accessing your video editing software. Look for the music or audio section, where you can upload your chosen track or select from a library. Trim the track as needed, adjust its position, and modify the volume to fit your video. Utilize fade-in and fade-out effects for smooth shifts, and make certain the music is royalty-free to avoid copyright issues before exporting your final product. Conclusion By following these five straightforward steps, you can effectively add music to your video, enhancing its overall appeal. Choosing the right video editing platform, selecting fitting music, and synchronizing the audio will guarantee a polished final product. After editing, exporting your video in the appropriate format allows for easy sharing across various platforms. With careful attention to each step, you’ll create a compelling multimedia experience that resonates with your audience. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Add Music to Video: A Step-by-Step Guide for Creators" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Living in a comfortable, heated house is something a lot of us take for granted. When the cold weather hits, we just put on thick socks, turn up the thermostat (or take other steps), and go about our business. But most modern homes rely on the electrical grid to keep that heat flowing. Even if your home is heated by natural gas or heating oil, there’s most likely an electric component to your heating system. That means that when the power goes out—say, in the middle of a fierce blizzard—so does your heat. Even recently built homes can lose interior heat pretty quickly, dropping to uncomfortable (and even unsafe) temperatures within a day at most. If you’re not sure when power will be restored, you’ll need to find a way to keep the place as warm as possible if you and your property are going to come out of the experience unscathed. Here are are four ways to keep your house warm if your heat goes out. Pre-heat your home before a stormIf you have some warning that a power loss is possible during the cold months—a winter storm warning, for example—it’s a good idea to “pre-heat” your home. The warmer your house is when the power goes out, the longer it will remain at a safe and/or comfortable temperature. You don’t necessarily want to make it tropical, but a few degrees higher than usual will buy you some time if the power goes out. Combined with sealing the house as tightly as possible—by hanging thermal curtains or blankets over windows, applying plastic insulation kits to windows, and deploying draft stoppers under doorways and anywhere else cold air is getting in—this strategy can be very effective. Isolate your family to a single roomTrying to keep a large house warm without an active heating system is a fool’s errand. Instead, focus on a single room where everyone in the house can gather, because a small room is a lot easier to warm up. A few considerations about which room to choose: Since heat rises, rooms on upper floors will be warmer than rooms on the main floor. A room that gets a lot of sunlight can be warmed during the day by opening up the curtains and letting that solar energy do its thing. Smaller rooms will be easier to heat up, but consider how many people will need to live and sleep in there. Rooms near bathrooms (or with en-suite baths) offer a bit more convenience, especially if you’re going to be hunkering down for a while. Once you’ve selected the room you’ll be using, try to keep it closed up as much as possible (covering windows, stopping up drafts, keeping the door closed). Introducing an indoor-safe heater is a good idea if you have one (or you can make one; see below). If none of the rooms in your house are ideal, you could also consider setting up a tent indoors. Tents are designed to hold in heat, and can create a small, controllable environment that will be easier to keep warm in a pinch. Make your own DIY heater with candles and clay potsIf you’ve planned ahead and have an indoor-safe propane or kerosene heater (or even a solar-powered portable heater), that will obviously help to keep your home warm (just be certain to follow all the instructions for ventilating whatever space you’re heating up). If you haven’t, or you discover that your propane tanks have leaked and you have no fuel, don’t despair. You can still generate heat by building a candle-pot heater, which is an old-school way of generating some quick heat. A candle-pot heater is pretty easy to set up: You’ll need 1-3 clay flower pots (or similar ceramic containers) in different sizes, some non-flammable materials to set up on (bricks or stone tiles will work), and some candles. Then arrange everything: Set up your bricks or other materials to create a raised platform, with plenty of airflow. Place your smallest pot upside down on the bricks and cover the hole in the bottom (if it’s a flowerpot). Place the larger pot on top, and then the largest on top of that if you have three pots. Place your candles underneath and light them. The candles don’t produce much heat, but the clay pots will absorb that heat and slowly start to radiate out. Instead of the candles’ heat just rising up to your ceiling and being cooled by the frigid air already in the room, the pots capture it and intensify it. Will this replace your home’s heating system, or even a portable propane heater? Not by a mile. But it will make a difference, especially in a small space. A few things to keep in mind here: Candles are open flames, so never leave your heater unattended, and always be conscious of fire hazards. You can place a foil-covered panel behind the heater to help reflect the heat in a specific direction (say, toward the chair you’re sitting in). Get a furnace battery backupIf you have a gas furnace, it’s not that hard to keep it running even during a blackout if you have an alternative power source like a generator or even a power bank. The furnace needs electricity to run the ignition, the blower, and communication between the thermostat and the furnace or boiler. A decent generator or robust battery can definitely keep your furnace running for a while—and those extra hours or days could be crucial in an extended cold-weather blackout. If you can see an obvious on/off switch on your furnace, you can pretty easily install a transfer switch like this one (here’s a video demonstrating how it’s done). This allows you to plug in a generator or power bank and keep your furnace running even when the power’s out—all you have to do is plug it in and flip the switch. If you’re not entirely comfortable with electrical wiring, you can hire a licensed electrician to install it as well, of course. Once it’s done, you’ll never have to worry about a cold house again—as long as you pair the switch with a generator or battery solution of sufficient power to keep things running. View the full article

Change would hit buyout groups Blackstone and Cerberus that have amassed large residential portfoliosView the full article

A shared client base helped lead to introduction of the new integration, with implementation scheduled to come later this year, the companies said. View the full article

At CES 2026, Swedish furniture giant Ikea showed off its new Kallsup Bluetooth speaker, which will cost just $10 in the U.S. Normally, I'd be skeptical of any speaker this cheap, but the Kallsup grabbed my attention for a few reasons—chief among them that Ikea says you can chain up to 100 of them together to create the multi-speaker setup of your dreams. That aside, the hardware seems pretty basic: The speaker has a USB-C port at the back, and two buttons up top (play/pause, and pair). Chaining together Bluetooth speakers is nothing new, but this is the first time I'm seeing the ability to pair as many as 100 of them. The only reason this use case is even remotely plausible is the pricing: As reported by The Verge, the Kallsup Bluetooth speaker will be priced at $10 in the U.S. and €5 (roughly $6) in Europe, which means you can buy 10 of them for the same price as one HomePod mini. The Verge also says that once you pair one of them to your phone (the company promises Bluetooth 5.3 support), you can add more to the chain with a two-button sequence. Design-wise, the speakers are cubical and colorful, which I'm a fan of (at the moment, Ikea is showing them off in white, green, and pink). But how do they sound? Well, Gizmodo says that while they are loud, they don't deliver much in the way of bass. I'd love to get a couple to judge for myself before committing to chaining a few dozen of them together, but I definitely admire Ikea's big swing here. That said, while CES is the place to grab attention with out-there ideas, and I am struggling to find a use case for chaining 100 Bluetooth speakers together. Maybe if you're an amusement park owner and you want the cheapest possible audio setup for a haunted house? Likely most people will be content with a more reasonable number of them, spread around the house. View the full article

Largely strong credit qualities were offset because by loans on single-family homes in the pool dropping by 0.5%, and that the percentage of loans that received due diligence decreased by 0.4%. View the full article