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The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is warning consumers about a type of fraud in which threat actors pretend to be from trusted financial institutions in order to obtain login credentials and gain access to financial and personal data. The consequences are high: With stolen credentials, scammers can gain full control of your accounts and your money. According to the FBI advisory, criminals will quickly wire funds from your bank to cryptocurrency wallets, making the money nearly impossible to trace and recover, and lock you out of your account in the process. Here's how account takeover scams work—and how to avoid becoming a victim. Account takeover scams may impersonate your bankMost account takeover scams use social engineering: a series of tactics designed to manipulate you into giving up personal information, downloading malware, or paying money to bad actors. Scammers impersonate financial institution employees as well as customer support and technical support staff and reach out to targets via text, call, or email to say that their account has been compromised in some way. They may tell you that there have been fraudulent charges on your account and send you a link to report the fraud—but this is actually a phishing site designed to harvest your login credentials. They may ask directly for your username, password, or multi-factor authentication (MFA) code over the phone. In some cases, they may even claim that your information was used to buy firearms and pass you off to a second scammer impersonating law enforcement. They're counting on you to feel fear and confusion and act quickly to "resolve" the issue by handing over your information. The FBI has also identified a version of account takeover using search engine optimization (SEO) poisoning, in which scammers buy ads that appear to be for legitimate businesses but actually allow them to place malicious links to spoofed bank websites higher in search results. How to avoid falling for account takeover scamsWhile being targeted for an account takeover may be unavoidable, there are a few red flags that can help you identify the fraud before it goes south. First, you should always be wary of calls, texts, emails, and other communication (such as social media messages) from someone claiming to be from your bank or creditor, especially if they ask for personal information like your username, password, or time-based one-time password (TOTP). Reputable institutions will not contact you to request your credentials or other sensitive data—so these are almost certainly phishing attempts. You should also be wary of trusting websites that look like they belong to your financial institution, especially if you click to them from a browser search. Cybercriminals can easily build convincing (but spoofed) websites and place the malicious links at the top of search results. Bookmark the trusted link rather than going through a search engine, or use the verified app on your mobile device. Always avoid clicking directly from unsolicited communication, and check URLs and email addresses carefully, as scammers can also use homographs to hide malicious links. Finally, protect your personal information. Use complex, unique passwords stored securely (such as in a password manager), enable a stronger form of MFA (and never give away codes), and limit what you share online. Scammers may use what you've posted—like your date of birth, pet's name, or information about family members—to get past your security questions, guess your password, or make an impersonation attempt sound more convincing. The IC3 also recommends monitoring your financial accounts for irregularities, such as unauthorized withdrawals or transfers, which may be a sign of an account takeover. Consider setting up transaction alerts with your financial institutions to be notified immediately of any suspicious activity. View the full article

Weaker than expected figures from payroll processor ADP highlight weakness in labour marketView the full article

An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a popular business structure in the USA that offers a blend of liability protection and tax benefits. When you form an LLC, your personal assets are typically shielded from the company’s debts, which is a significant advantage. This structure allows for an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities. Comprehending how to start an LLC and its unique characteristics can help you make informed decisions about your business. Key Takeaways An LLC (Limited Liability Company) combines liability protection and pass-through taxation, safeguarding members’ personal assets from business debts. LLCs can have an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities, promoting diverse ownership. Ownership interests in an LLC are represented by membership interests, not shares of stock, allowing for flexible investment structures. To form an LLC, Articles of Organization must be filed with the state, and a registered agent must be designated. LLCs benefit from fewer formalities and regulations compared to corporations, offering management flexibility and simplicity in operation. Definition and Characteristics of an LLC When you consider starting a business, one option you might explore is forming a limited liability company, or LLC. An LLC in the USA combines the liability protection of a corporation with the pass-through taxation advantages of a partnership. As a member of an LLC, you’re not personally liable for the company’s debts, which means your personal assets remain protected. This type of company in the United States allows for an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities, without citizenship restrictions. Instead of shares of stock, ownership interests in an LLC are represented by membership interests, offering flexibility in profit and loss allocations. Each state has specific regulations for forming and operating an LLC, so it’s crucial to comply with local laws. Tax Advantages of an LLC Comprehending the tax advantages of an LLC can considerably impact your business’s financial health. Here are some key benefits you should know about forming an LLC en USA: Pass-through taxation means profits and losses appear on your personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation. Single-member LLCs are disregarded entities, letting you report income on Schedule C without filing a separate tax return. Multi-member LLCs file IRS Form 1065, reporting income and deductions like a partnership. Tax flexibility allows LLCs to elect corporate status, enabling taxation as a C or S corporation if advantageous. Understanding these advantages will help you make informed decisions that can improve your business’s profitability and tax efficiency. How to Start an LLC Starting an LLC can be a straightforward process, especially once you understand the key steps involved. First, choose a unique business name that meets your state’s requirements and check its availability in the state’s database. Next, file the Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State, including details like the business name, principal address, and registered agent information, along with the required filing fee. Designate a registered agent with a physical address in your state to receive legal documents. Although not mandatory in all states, consider creating an operating agreement to define management structure and profit-sharing. After forming your LLC, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and comply with ongoing state requirements, such as annual reports. Pros and Cons of an LLC Comprehending the pros and cons of forming an LLC is crucial for anyone considering this business structure. Here’s what you need to know: Limited Personal Liability: Your personal assets are typically protected from business debts. Pass-Through Taxation: Profits and losses are reported on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. Flexible Structure: LLCs require less formal structure and paperwork than corporations, simplifying setup and maintenance. Self-Employment Taxes: You may face self-employment taxes on profits, and raising capital can be tougher compared to corporations. While there are significant benefits, be aware of potential drawbacks like varying state regulations and compliance costs that can impact your overall expenses. Grasping both sides helps you make informed decisions about your business. Differences Between LLCs, Partnerships, and Corporations When deciding on a business structure, it’s important to understand the differences between LLCs, partnerships, and corporations, as each offers unique benefits and drawbacks. LLCs provide limited liability protection, shielding your personal assets from business debts. Conversely, partnerships expose you to personal liability for business obligations. Tax-wise, LLCs enjoy pass-through taxation, avoiding the double taxation faced by corporations. Management flexibility is another advantage for LLCs, allowing for member-managed or manager-managed structures, unlike the rigid hierarchy of corporations. Furthermore, forming a partnership doesn’t require formal filing, whereas LLCs must file Articles of Organization. Finally, LLCs can have an unlimited number of members without citizenship restrictions, whereas partnerships and corporations have specific regulations governing ownership. Variations of LLCs Comprehending the various types of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) available can considerably impact how you structure your business. Here are four significant variations to evaluate: Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC): Customized for licensed professionals like doctors and lawyers, offering liability protection during compliance with specific state regulations. Series LLC: Allows multiple divisions within one LLC, each with its own assets and liabilities, enhancing protection against liability. Low-Profit Limited Liability Company (L3C): Merges for-profit and social enterprise goals, enabling you to pursue charitable objectives as you generate profit. Anonymous LLC: Conceals member identities from public disclosure, appealing to those who prioritize privacy in ownership. Keep in mind that state regulations dictate the characteristics and benefits of each type, so research is crucial. Legal Considerations for LLCs When forming an LLC, comprehension of the legal considerations is vital for protecting your interests and ensuring smooth operations. An operating agreement, although not always required, is important as it defines how your LLC will be managed and can help avoid conflicts among members. Furthermore, enjoying limited liability protection allows you to separate your personal assets from the company’s debts, making it imperative to adhere to state regulations and compliance requirements. Operating Agreement Importance An operating agreement is an essential document for any Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the USA, as it clearly defines the management structure, member responsibilities, and operational procedures. Although not required in every state, having one is highly recommended to solidify your LLC’s separate existence and protect its limited liability status. A well-crafted operating agreement can help prevent disputes and misunderstandings among members. Here are some key elements to reflect on: Capital contributions: Clarifies how much each member invests. Profit distribution: Outlines how profits will be shared. Member management: Details each member’s responsibilities. Adding/removing members: Establishes processes for changes in membership. Limited Liability Protection Limited liability protection is one of the primary advantages of forming an LLC, as it effectively separates your personal assets from the business’s debts and liabilities. This means that your home, savings, and other personal property are typically shielded from claims against the business, providing you peace of mind. The “LLC veil” is more challenging to pierce than in other business structures, ensuring that you maintain this protection as long as you don’t mix personal and business funds. Nonetheless, be cautious; courts can hold you personally liable if fraud or misconduct occurs. Furthermore, a well-drafted operating agreement is crucial for governance, helping to prevent disputes and reinforcing your limited liability status, safeguarding your interests in the LLC. Membership Flexibility Options Ownership in an LLC is marked by significant flexibility, offering various options for membership that cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some key features of LLC membership flexibility: You can include a diverse range of members, like individuals, corporations, or other entities, with no citizenship restrictions. Membership interests can be customized in units or percentages, allowing you to personalize ownership distribution. There’s no limit on the number of members, which promotes unlimited participation in ownership and management. Operating agreements, whether written, oral, or implied, dictate how your LLC operates, helping to prevent disputes among members. This flexibility accommodates both passive investors and active managers, ensuring that the structure meets your specific goals. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Purpose of Having an LLC? The purpose of having an LLC is primarily to limit your personal liability for business debts, protecting your assets from business-related risks. It furthermore provides pass-through taxation, so profits and losses appear on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. In addition, an LLC offers a flexible ownership structure, allowing various entities to be members. This can improve your business’s credibility and streamline management through defined roles in an operating agreement. What Is US LLC and How Does It Work? An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, functions as a hybrid structure that protects your personal assets from business debts. It allows you to report profits and losses on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. To form an LLC, you file Articles of Organization with your state, detailing your business name and registered agent. You can choose a flexible management structure, either member-managed or manager-managed, based on your operational preferences. Does an LLC Have to Pay Its Owner? An LLC doesn’t pay its owners directly like a corporation does. Instead, profits pass through to your personal tax return, where you report income. You can take distributions based on your LLC’s operating agreement, which details how profits are shared. If you’re a single-member LLC, you report everything on your tax return without a separate filing. Multi-member LLCs require IRS Form 1065, and each member receives a Schedule K-1 for their share of income. Do LLCS Get Money Back? LLCs themselves don’t receive money back as they’re not taxed at the entity level. Instead, profits pass through to you, impacting your personal tax return. If you’ve overpaid your taxes, you might receive a refund based on your individual situation. Furthermore, expenses and deductions can lower taxable income, which could lead to refunds if your withholdings exceed your tax liability. Always consult a tax professional to understand your specific circumstances better. Conclusion In conclusion, an LLC is a flexible business structure that offers liability protection and tax benefits, making it a popular choice for many entrepreneurs. By comprehending its characteristics, advantages, and how to establish one, you can make informed decisions about your business. Remember to reflect on the differences between LLCs, partnerships, and corporations to choose the best structure for your needs. With careful planning and adherence to legal requirements, you can successfully navigate the process of forming an LLC. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is an LLC in the USA?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a popular business structure in the USA that offers a blend of liability protection and tax benefits. When you form an LLC, your personal assets are typically shielded from the company’s debts, which is a significant advantage. This structure allows for an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities. Comprehending how to start an LLC and its unique characteristics can help you make informed decisions about your business. Key Takeaways An LLC (Limited Liability Company) combines liability protection and pass-through taxation, safeguarding members’ personal assets from business debts. LLCs can have an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities, promoting diverse ownership. Ownership interests in an LLC are represented by membership interests, not shares of stock, allowing for flexible investment structures. To form an LLC, Articles of Organization must be filed with the state, and a registered agent must be designated. LLCs benefit from fewer formalities and regulations compared to corporations, offering management flexibility and simplicity in operation. Definition and Characteristics of an LLC When you consider starting a business, one option you might explore is forming a limited liability company, or LLC. An LLC in the USA combines the liability protection of a corporation with the pass-through taxation advantages of a partnership. As a member of an LLC, you’re not personally liable for the company’s debts, which means your personal assets remain protected. This type of company in the United States allows for an unlimited number of members, including individuals and foreign entities, without citizenship restrictions. Instead of shares of stock, ownership interests in an LLC are represented by membership interests, offering flexibility in profit and loss allocations. Each state has specific regulations for forming and operating an LLC, so it’s crucial to comply with local laws. Tax Advantages of an LLC Comprehending the tax advantages of an LLC can considerably impact your business’s financial health. Here are some key benefits you should know about forming an LLC en USA: Pass-through taxation means profits and losses appear on your personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation. Single-member LLCs are disregarded entities, letting you report income on Schedule C without filing a separate tax return. Multi-member LLCs file IRS Form 1065, reporting income and deductions like a partnership. Tax flexibility allows LLCs to elect corporate status, enabling taxation as a C or S corporation if advantageous. Understanding these advantages will help you make informed decisions that can improve your business’s profitability and tax efficiency. How to Start an LLC Starting an LLC can be a straightforward process, especially once you understand the key steps involved. First, choose a unique business name that meets your state’s requirements and check its availability in the state’s database. Next, file the Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State, including details like the business name, principal address, and registered agent information, along with the required filing fee. Designate a registered agent with a physical address in your state to receive legal documents. Although not mandatory in all states, consider creating an operating agreement to define management structure and profit-sharing. After forming your LLC, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and comply with ongoing state requirements, such as annual reports. Pros and Cons of an LLC Comprehending the pros and cons of forming an LLC is crucial for anyone considering this business structure. Here’s what you need to know: Limited Personal Liability: Your personal assets are typically protected from business debts. Pass-Through Taxation: Profits and losses are reported on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. Flexible Structure: LLCs require less formal structure and paperwork than corporations, simplifying setup and maintenance. Self-Employment Taxes: You may face self-employment taxes on profits, and raising capital can be tougher compared to corporations. While there are significant benefits, be aware of potential drawbacks like varying state regulations and compliance costs that can impact your overall expenses. Grasping both sides helps you make informed decisions about your business. Differences Between LLCs, Partnerships, and Corporations When deciding on a business structure, it’s important to understand the differences between LLCs, partnerships, and corporations, as each offers unique benefits and drawbacks. LLCs provide limited liability protection, shielding your personal assets from business debts. Conversely, partnerships expose you to personal liability for business obligations. Tax-wise, LLCs enjoy pass-through taxation, avoiding the double taxation faced by corporations. Management flexibility is another advantage for LLCs, allowing for member-managed or manager-managed structures, unlike the rigid hierarchy of corporations. Furthermore, forming a partnership doesn’t require formal filing, whereas LLCs must file Articles of Organization. Finally, LLCs can have an unlimited number of members without citizenship restrictions, whereas partnerships and corporations have specific regulations governing ownership. Variations of LLCs Comprehending the various types of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) available can considerably impact how you structure your business. Here are four significant variations to evaluate: Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC): Customized for licensed professionals like doctors and lawyers, offering liability protection during compliance with specific state regulations. Series LLC: Allows multiple divisions within one LLC, each with its own assets and liabilities, enhancing protection against liability. Low-Profit Limited Liability Company (L3C): Merges for-profit and social enterprise goals, enabling you to pursue charitable objectives as you generate profit. Anonymous LLC: Conceals member identities from public disclosure, appealing to those who prioritize privacy in ownership. Keep in mind that state regulations dictate the characteristics and benefits of each type, so research is crucial. Legal Considerations for LLCs When forming an LLC, comprehension of the legal considerations is vital for protecting your interests and ensuring smooth operations. An operating agreement, although not always required, is important as it defines how your LLC will be managed and can help avoid conflicts among members. Furthermore, enjoying limited liability protection allows you to separate your personal assets from the company’s debts, making it imperative to adhere to state regulations and compliance requirements. Operating Agreement Importance An operating agreement is an essential document for any Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the USA, as it clearly defines the management structure, member responsibilities, and operational procedures. Although not required in every state, having one is highly recommended to solidify your LLC’s separate existence and protect its limited liability status. A well-crafted operating agreement can help prevent disputes and misunderstandings among members. Here are some key elements to reflect on: Capital contributions: Clarifies how much each member invests. Profit distribution: Outlines how profits will be shared. Member management: Details each member’s responsibilities. Adding/removing members: Establishes processes for changes in membership. Limited Liability Protection Limited liability protection is one of the primary advantages of forming an LLC, as it effectively separates your personal assets from the business’s debts and liabilities. This means that your home, savings, and other personal property are typically shielded from claims against the business, providing you peace of mind. The “LLC veil” is more challenging to pierce than in other business structures, ensuring that you maintain this protection as long as you don’t mix personal and business funds. Nonetheless, be cautious; courts can hold you personally liable if fraud or misconduct occurs. Furthermore, a well-drafted operating agreement is crucial for governance, helping to prevent disputes and reinforcing your limited liability status, safeguarding your interests in the LLC. Membership Flexibility Options Ownership in an LLC is marked by significant flexibility, offering various options for membership that cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some key features of LLC membership flexibility: You can include a diverse range of members, like individuals, corporations, or other entities, with no citizenship restrictions. Membership interests can be customized in units or percentages, allowing you to personalize ownership distribution. There’s no limit on the number of members, which promotes unlimited participation in ownership and management. Operating agreements, whether written, oral, or implied, dictate how your LLC operates, helping to prevent disputes among members. This flexibility accommodates both passive investors and active managers, ensuring that the structure meets your specific goals. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Purpose of Having an LLC? The purpose of having an LLC is primarily to limit your personal liability for business debts, protecting your assets from business-related risks. It furthermore provides pass-through taxation, so profits and losses appear on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. In addition, an LLC offers a flexible ownership structure, allowing various entities to be members. This can improve your business’s credibility and streamline management through defined roles in an operating agreement. What Is US LLC and How Does It Work? An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, functions as a hybrid structure that protects your personal assets from business debts. It allows you to report profits and losses on your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation. To form an LLC, you file Articles of Organization with your state, detailing your business name and registered agent. You can choose a flexible management structure, either member-managed or manager-managed, based on your operational preferences. Does an LLC Have to Pay Its Owner? An LLC doesn’t pay its owners directly like a corporation does. Instead, profits pass through to your personal tax return, where you report income. You can take distributions based on your LLC’s operating agreement, which details how profits are shared. If you’re a single-member LLC, you report everything on your tax return without a separate filing. Multi-member LLCs require IRS Form 1065, and each member receives a Schedule K-1 for their share of income. Do LLCS Get Money Back? LLCs themselves don’t receive money back as they’re not taxed at the entity level. Instead, profits pass through to you, impacting your personal tax return. If you’ve overpaid your taxes, you might receive a refund based on your individual situation. Furthermore, expenses and deductions can lower taxable income, which could lead to refunds if your withholdings exceed your tax liability. Always consult a tax professional to understand your specific circumstances better. Conclusion In conclusion, an LLC is a flexible business structure that offers liability protection and tax benefits, making it a popular choice for many entrepreneurs. By comprehending its characteristics, advantages, and how to establish one, you can make informed decisions about your business. Remember to reflect on the differences between LLCs, partnerships, and corporations to choose the best structure for your needs. With careful planning and adherence to legal requirements, you can successfully navigate the process of forming an LLC. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is an LLC in the USA?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 is currently down to $759.99 on Amazon, down from $859.99. Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 256GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet With S Pen (Gray) $759.99 at Amazon $859.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $759.99 at Amazon $859.99 Save $100.00 For those in the market for a premium Android tablet that leans into both productivity and entertainment, this might be one to consider. It has the same polished design and high-quality build Samsung brings to its flagship phones, with a sturdy Armor Aluminum frame, water and dust resistance (IP68), and a bright 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED display that’s crisp, color-rich, and plenty bright even outdoors. It also comes with the redesigned S Pen included at no extra charge, unlike the Apple Pencil. In terms of performance, the Tab S11 holds its own. It’s powered by MediaTek’s 9400+ chip with 12GB RAM and Android 16, which keeps things snappy across multitasking and Samsung’s DeX mode (basically a desktop experience on a tablet). You get 256GB of onboard storage, expandable up to 2TB with a microSD card, which is handy for offline media or large files. Battery life clocked in around 9.5 hours in PCMag’s rundown test, which means real-world use lands somewhere in the all-day range unless you keep brightness maxed out. As for the audio, the stereo speakers are loud and clear enough for small rooms, but the bass is underwhelming—if audio quality matters to you, a solid pair of wireless headphones or earbuds might be a better bet. Camera-wise, the 13MP rear camera and 12MP front cam handle video calls and quick snapshots fine, but don’t expect smartphone-level sharpness or dynamic range. The real edge lies in the software: Samsung’s One UI 8.0 and Galaxy AI tools like Notes Assist, Transcript Assist, and Circle to Search help streamline everyday use. Add seven years of promised updates, and you’ve got long-term support locked in. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $249.00 (List Price $249.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $353.00 (List Price $353.00) Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99) Sony WH-1000XM5 — $278.00 (List Price $399.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p Wireless Security Camera (5-Pack) — $399.99 (List Price $399.99) Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus 1080p Security Camera (White) — $99.99 (List Price $179.99) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $24.99 (List Price $49.99) NEW Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — (List Price $410.24) Shark AI Ultra Matrix Clean Mapping Voice Control Robot Vacuum with XL Self-Empty Base — $249.99 (List Price $599.00) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $329.00 (List Price $399.00) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Chanel’s new showman, Matthieu Blazy, took his designs on the road Tuesday — or rather, underground, with a buzzy New York runway show staged on an actual subway platform. The designer, just weeks after his splashy Paris debut for Chanel in October, took over a decommissioned part of Manhattan’s Bowery station for his first Métiers d’Art collection. The annual show, which takes place in a different city each year, celebrates the craftsmanship of the artisans that partner with Chanel. In this case, it was two shows—one in the afternoon and one in the evening. And befitting the first Chanel shows in New York since 2018, there were VIPs aplenty: A$AP Rocky, Tilda Swinton, Ayo Edebiri, Rose Byrne, Kristen Stewart, Sofia Coppola, Lupita Nyong’o, Jessie Buckley, Margaret Qualley, Bowen Yang, Jon Bon Jovi, and many others. The location had been a closely held secret. Guests entered via a doorway at 168 Bowery, and at first, it seemed like Chanel had perhaps decorated an event space to resemble a subway station, complete with tiled walls, turnstiles and a newsstand (with its own bespoke newspapers). But down a flight of stairs was the real platform. Guests settled into bleacher seats resembling subway benches. “Stand clear of the closing doors!” came the announcement on the soundtrack, familiar to New Yorkers. Then a train came rolling in, and out of the cars came the models. The show was a marked contrast in vibe with the last Métiers d’Art collection in New York in 2018, when the late designer Karl Lagerfeld took over the Egyptian Temple of Dendur at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for what felt like a mini-Met Gala, with clothes channeling the luxury of Egyptian royalty. Blazy was inspired not by royalty but by ordinary urban commuters, of different ages and types, coming together in a mashup of styles from different eras, from the 1920s onward. “The New York subway belongs to all,” the designer said in his show notes. “Everyone uses it. There are students and game-changers, statesmen and teenagers. It is a place full of wonderful encounters, a clash of pop archetypes.” His models strolled the platform, some checking for arriving trains—feigning annoyance at their lateness—or leaning against a post as they waited. Their numbers increased until, by the end, there was a virtual rush hour of fashion, with the eclectic soundtrack playing the Happy Days theme song as a finale. Some of these commuters wore classic Chanel suits—perhaps with an “I (Heart) NY” T-shirt—and others, tweed coats, flowing black capes or brightly patterned skirts. All were intended to show off the craftsmanship involved. “This felt like breaking the system,” said Stewart, speaking after the afternoon show. “I genuinely had an emotional response to the show. I felt like I just saw so many different versions of a person walking. It wasn’t one woman.” Stewart, like others, had no idea going in what the show’s theme would be, and thought the subway environment felt like “a flurry of fleeting caught moments.” “Like, ‘Where is she going?’ I wanted to go with them,” Stewart said. “I believed in it. All of this is artifice, but when you do a really good impression of the truth, you find your own. This felt real to me.” It was real enough that Chanel had printed its own “newspaper”—called La Gazette—to accompany the show, with articles and interviews. An interview with Blazy quoted the designer as saying the collection was inspired partly by the 1931 visit to New York of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. And he sang the praises of the subway. “It’s almost like it’s the vortex of the city,” Blazy said. “It connects everything.” —Jocelyn Noveck, AP National Writer View the full article

Many major platforms provide personalized “year in review” features that highlight how users have spent their time over the past year. Spotify Wrapped is the most popular of these summaries, but Apple Music, Snapchat, Deezer, and others also offer them. And now, internet users have a new year-in-review feature to check out this year: YouTube Recap. Here’s what you need to know about the video site’s year-in-review and how to access it—especially if you’re looking to kill some time while waiting for Spotify Wrapped 2025 to come out. What is YouTube Recap? YouTube Recap is Google’s just-announced year-in-review feature for its YouTube platform. The personalized recap displays various metrics about your YouTube viewing habits over the past year. The Recap feature takes the form of a Story, or YouTube Short. As YouTube explained in a blog post, “You’ll get a set of up to 12 different cards that spotlight your top channels, interests, and even the evolution of your viewing habits, or which personality type you fall into based on the videos you loved to watch!” Cards include your top interests, your top channels, and your interests based on video views. If you listen to a lot of music on YouTube, your YouTube Recap will also display your top artists and top songs from YouTube Music. One interesting bit of information comes from a disclaimer that the YouTube Recap displays when you view it. That disclaimer reads “AI can make mistakes.” This suggests that Google is relying on artificial intelligence to curate and assemble YouTube Recap videos. Discover your YouTube personality Your YouTube Recap video may also feature a “personality” card that YouTube says reveals what type of personality you have based on your YouTube watch history. The full list of possible personalities includes: The Adventurer: You’re drawn to content that takes you on an exciting journey. The Challenger: You’re drawn to content that shows competition and rising to the challenge. The Changemaker: You’re drawn to content that inspires positive change in the world. The Connector: You’re drawn to content that sparks conversation and builds community. The Creative Spirit: You’re drawn to content that inspires self-expression. The Curious Mind: You’re drawn to educational content that helps you understand the world. The Dreamer: You’re drawn to content that fuels your imagination. The Philosopher: You’re drawn to content that explores the deeper meaning of things. The Self-Improver: You’re drawn to content that helps you grow and reach your potential. The Serenity Seeker: You’re drawn to content that helps you relax and find your inner peace. The Skill Builder: You’re drawn to content that helps you develop skills. The Sunshiner: You’re drawn to content that spreads positivity and good vibes. The Trailblazer: You’re drawn to content that’s original and challenges the norm. The Wonder Seeker: You’re drawn to awe-inspiring content that shows extraordinary skills. In its blog post, YouTube says the most common personalities are the Connector, the Sunshiner, and the Wonder Seeker. The least common personalities are the Dreamer and the Philosopher, which YouTube says are “more elusive and rare personas.” How to access your YouTube Recap 2025 on the web YouTube provides two ways users can access their YouTube Recap. The first is by using any web browser. To access your YouTube 2025 Recap on the web: Go to www.youtube.com/recap and make sure you are signed in. You’ll find a “Your 2025 Recap is here!” banner at the top of the page. Click it. Your YouTube Recap video will open on the same webpage. How to access your YouTube Recap 2025 in the YouTube app You can also access your YouTube Recap directly in the YouTube app on iPhone and Android. Here’s how: Open the YouTube app. Tap the “You” tab. You’ll find a “Your 2025 Recap is here!” banner at the top of the page. Tap it. Your YouTube Recap video will now open in the YouTube app on your smartphone. How to share your YouTube Recap video While people love viewing their year-in-review roundups, many also enjoy sharing them with friends and family. And YouTube makes it easy to share your YouTube Recap video. The caveat here, however, is that you need to share it from the YouTube app. Sharing of your YouTube Recap video from a web browser does not seem to be supported at this time. To share your YouTube Recap video: Open the YouTube app. Tap the “You” tab. You’ll find a “Your 2025 Recap is here!” banner at the top of the page. Tap it. As the video plays, you’ll see a “Share” button at the bottom of the video. Tap it. From the pop-up menu, select the person or app you want to share a link to your personalized YouTube Recap video with. YouTube Recap is available now to users in North America. It will roll out to users worldwide this week. View the full article

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On birth rates, the lockdown and above all Brexit, the right is out of touch with the public View the full article

It’s not a Christmas miracle, I’m afraidView the full article

Route 66. The name alone evokes nostalgia for a simpler, freer time in American history, when roadies stopped for a hot dog with ketchup, then drove into ocher sunsets suspended over the Mojave desert. Ever since it was built in 1926, the “Mother Road” has gained mythical status, drawing millions of visitors from around the world yearning for a taste of old America—the one before the interstate highway system favored speed over experience. For Rhys Martin, who has spent years on the road with his camera, this isn’t what Route 66 is about. Yes, you can travel back in time and get a glimpse of Americana, but the route isn’t fossilized in the past. It’s very much still breathing. “Route 66 is more than just this 1950s sanitized version of American history,” he says. “It’s diverse, it’s evolving, and I like to say that no matter who you are or where you’re from, somewhere on Route 66, you’ll find your reflection.” Martin, who manages the Preserve Route 66 program at the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is part of a group of advocates and preservationists who want to change the narrative around Route 66 from one that paints the road as a mirror into the past to one that reflects the present, where many communities still live and people still work. His team’s mission has now culminated in Route 66 Rewind: a browser-based experience that lets users drive across 33 landmarks along the route from their own (virtual) vintage car or motorcycle. You can steer the wheel, pick a radio station, and see how the Midpoint Cafe or the U-Drop Inn looked in previous decades. The experience was codeveloped by Google Arts & Culture with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and is part of a larger storytelling hub that lives on the Google Arts & Culture platform. The team turned archival photographs into videos using Google’s AI video generator Veo, composed the radio music using music generation model Lyria, and wrote the radio commentary using Gemini. The result is a sim road trip that uses AI in the best possible way: to direct the narrative back to people, and highlight the human experience that continues to shape the route today. Route 66: A “corridor of stories” Martin first saw the road through the lens of a camera. Growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he’d heard of Route 66, but he knew only the broad strokes. Then one day in 2013, he hopped into his late father’s Mustang and drove to Miami, Oklahoma, to photograph the Coleman Theatre—a 1929 vaudeville theater with a facade “so ornate it had no business being in the town of Miami,” he recalls. The surprising discovery had him wondering: What else was on the highway? Martin’s curiosity led him on a two-year road trip across Route 66 that grew into a decade-long love affair with the people he met along the way. “Eventually I realized it’s a corridor of stories,” he says. One of the biggest misconceptions about Route 66 is that the destinations along its route have faded into ghost towns. The construction of the interstate highway system in the ’50s and ’60s, followed by the decommissioning of the route in 1985, no doubt stripped many of these towns of their purpose. As travel evolved and car speeds got faster, the need for frequent gas stations and motels diminished. The government divested. People left towns. But not everyone left. In Tulsa, entrepreneurs like Mary Beth Babcock have spent years revitalizing stretches of the road. In 2019, she transformed the historic Pemco gas station into a souvenir shop called Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, complete with two very on-brand, 20-foot-tall mascots that double as roadside attractions. That same year, Dutch entrepreneur Sebastiaan de Boorder and his wife, Anna Marie Gonzalez, renovated the 1919 Aztec Motel in Seligman, Arizona, which reopened as the Aztec Motel & Creative Space in 2021. “There is so much development still coming to Route 66, and most of it is mom and pops who’ve always dreamed of having a business on Route 66,” Martin says. Today, the American dream that once defined Route 66 looks different. Some might say it doesn’t exist at all. But for Martin, it lives on along the Mother Road. “I agree that the American dream doesn’t quite hit like it used to,” he tells me, “but on Route 66, you still find people who have bought into the cliché that Route 66 means freedom, and they are adding their story to this highway that’s now entering its second century.” AI fills “the gaps of archival memory” Route 66 is now approaching its centennial. Next year, various destinations along the route will burst into caravans and car parades to celebrate the route’s legacy. But for the team behind Route 66 Rewind, the goal isn’t just to celebrate the past but to galvanize the next generation. “Preservation creates,” says Martin, noting that anytime a building is preserved, it activates the connection people had with it while helping young people engage with the conversation. “That’s how you inspire the next generation to add their story to this long history.” With its AI-powered features and fun UX, Route 66 Rewind presented itself as a way to make history exciting for younger people. But when the team sat down to convey said history, they realized they didn’t know how many of these places looked in their heyday, beyond a few archival photographs. AI became a way to fill in what Amit Sood, the founder and director of Google Arts & Culture, calls “the gaps of archival memory.” The Google team worked with the National Trust team to collect black-and-white photos and written accounts they could use to prompt AI, cross-referencing each output with experts at the Trust. The resulting videos act as miniature time capsules of a bygone era. In Collinsville, Illinois, you can follow ketchup bottles stream past on a conveyor belt inside the now-defunct Brooks Foods ketchup factory. In Lebanon, Missouri, you can peek inside the now-closed Munger Moss Motel, its iconic neon sign flickering under a 1960s sun. But as Sood points out, these dreamy snapshots inspire you to preserve, too. The hope is that the AI-powered vision of, say, the Threatt Filling Station—the only Black-owned-and-operated gas station during the Jim Crow era—will pique your interest enough for you to visit the storytelling hub and learn about the craftsmen who are now working to restore the building’s “giraffe-stone” exterior. Next year, Route 66 is likely to be designated a National Historic Trail. The designation, which is being championed by members of both the U.S. House and Senate, could help preserve the historic route, boost tourism, and support local economies ahead of the highway’s centennial celebration. In the meantime, perhaps the AI-powered platform will galvanize tourists both domestically and from abroad to get on the road and see how the myth lives on. “The goal is to keep the car rolling down the street and get more people engaged,” Martin says. “It’s going to be a big party [next year], but that’s definitely not the end. It’s the start of the next 100 years.” View the full article

Generic store brand groceries can increasingly be found in the pantries, fridges, and freezers of Americans across all income groups. Once designed to communicate value and affordability, a new generation of private labels designed for high earners is driving sales. Among households earning more than $100,000 a year, 82% say they’ve increased the frequency of buying store-brand groceries “often” or “very often,” according to a report from Alvarez & Marsal Global, a consulting firm. That’s compared to 74% of households earnings less than $100,000 a year who also say they’ve increased their store-brand grocery purchases. Grocers have rebranded and grown their portfolio of private label brands over the past several years to cater to consumers pressed by inflation, and it’s paid off as the highest-earning shoppers make up an increasingly large share of the economy. The report attributed the steep increase among the highest-earning Americans to “improvements made in private label products.” Nowhere is this more true than Walmart, the leading grocer since 2019, which launched a new private label called Bettergoods in 2024 that includes products that are plant-based, organic, or gluten-free. These products intentionally cater to the Whole Foods shopper with bright, well-designed packaging. The company reported quarterly revenue of $179.5 billion, up 5.8%, and said high-income households were part of the reason why. “We continue to benefit from higher-income families choosing to shop with us more often,” Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said on the company’s earnings call late last month. Upgraded, design-ified generic brands aren’t just boosting high-income shopping, though. The report found 68% of shoppers across all income groups believe store brands offer quality that is as good or better than national brands, and switching to store brands was the No. 1 way shoppers said they cut their grocery bill. Those trends are shaping the industry. Albertson’s says it’s aiming for private labels to eventually account for 30% of its business, Aldi put its name on all its products for the first time, and Amazon debuted a new branded online grocery store with packaging that makes good use of its new font, bright colors, and white space. With high-income households driving so much spending, industries from airlines to produce are especially catering to the shoppers with high-end products and premium experiences. At the grocery store, though, the success of private labels proves that when it comes to cooking dinner, even the highest-earning among us are looking for a good deal. View the full article

To succeed in social media marketing, you need to implement key strategies that effectively engage your audience. Start by identifying who your target audience is, then set clear, measurable goals. Choosing the right platforms and optimizing your profiles is crucial, as is creating content that resonates with users. By nurturing community engagement and leveraging influencer partnerships, you can improve your brand’s visibility. Comprehending the metrics will likewise help you adapt your strategies for better results. Let’s explore these strategies in detail. Key Takeaways Understand your target audience by creating ideal customer personas and utilizing market research tools for insights. Choose the right social media platforms based on demographics and user behavior to maximize engagement. Create high-quality, engaging content that encourages audience interaction and maintains consistent visual branding. Leverage influencer partnerships by collaborating with authentic influencers that align with your brand values for better reach. Measure campaign performance using analytics tools to track engagement, reach, and conversion metrics for ongoing strategy refinement. Understand Your Target Audience How well do you really know your target audience? Comprehending your audience is essential for an effective social media strategy. Start by defining your ideal customer persona through analysis of existing demographics, behaviors, and feedback. Utilize market research tools like Google Analytics to gather valuable insights into audience preferences and behaviors. Moreover, engage in social media listening to monitor mentions of your brand and competitors, which reveals audience sentiment and engagement patterns. Research shows that 82% of consumers feel social media influences their buying decisions, so it’s imperative to grasp their motivations. Set SMART Social Media Goals Setting SMART social media goals is vital for guiding your marketing efforts effectively, as it guarantees that your objectives are clear and actionable. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, aiming to increase your Instagram followers by 20% within six months provides a clear metric for success. By establishing measurable goals, you can track your performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rates and conversion numbers. It’s important to align these social media goals with your overall business objectives, such as boosting website traffic or generating leads, enhancing their relevance. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your SMART goals based on performance data guarantees ongoing optimization, making your social media strategy plan both effective and responsive to market trends. Choose the Right Social Media Platforms Selecting the right social media platforms can greatly impact your marketing success. Start by comprehending the demographics of each platform; for instance, Facebook is popular with adults aged 50 to 64, whereas TikTok attracts a younger crowd, with 60% of users aged 18 to 29. Each platform offers unique features—Instagram shines with visual content, and LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking. Use tools like Google Analytics to research where your target audience spends time online, helping you prioritize platforms effectively. Regularly analyze engagement metrics on your chosen platforms to see which yield the best results. By adapting your social media strategy examples to align with each platform’s characteristics, you can improve audience engagement and drive better marketing outcomes. Create Engaging Content Creating engaging content is essential for capturing your audience’s attention. High-quality visuals not just improve your posts but can likewise lead to a significant increase in engagement, so make certain they align with your brand’s style. Furthermore, encouraging audience interaction through polls or user-generated content can nurture community and authenticity, making your brand more relatable. Visual Appeal Matters Visual appeal plays a crucial role in social media marketing, as posts that incorporate high-quality visuals can capture considerably more attention than those relying solely on text. Research shows that posts with images or videos are 650% more likely to engage users, making visuals a requirement. Incorporating videos can boost engagement rates by 48%, whereas infographics can increase information retention by up to 60%. Consistency in visual branding, including color schemes and logos, improves brand recognition by 80%. If you’re looking to improve your strategies, consider enrolling in social media marketing courses that emphasize these visual elements. Encourage Audience Interaction How can you effectively encourage audience interaction on social media? Start by creating engaging content like polls, contests, and open-ended questions. These strategies can increase engagement considerably, with comment-driven posts receiving 6.5 times more interaction. Incorporate user-generated content (UGC) to build community and authenticity, as 79% of consumers say it influences their purchasing decisions. Tailor your content to reflect audience interests, such as lifestyle posts or behind-the-scenes glimpses, which can boost engagement rates by 28%. Use dynamic visuals and short-form videos, as 80% of users prefer video content. Finally, consistently respond to comments and messages, as 70% of consumers report that friendly customer service improves brand loyalty, a fundamental concept in social media marketing training. Optimize Your Social Media Profiles To optimize your social media profiles, you should guarantee consistent branding elements like logos and colors across all platforms, as this builds recognition and trust. Craft a keyword-rich bio that clearly communicates your brand’s purpose, which not just improves discoverability but likewise attracts the right audience. Consistent Branding Across Platforms Establishing consistent branding across your social media platforms is crucial for enhancing brand recognition and cultivating consumer trust. To achieve this, use the same logo, color palette, and brand voice across all profiles. Studies show cohesive branding can boost revenue by up to 23%. Make sure your profiles reflect your latest marketing campaigns by regularly updating visuals and information. This consistency not only reinforces your narrative but also increases the likelihood of consumer engagement, as 73% of users prefer brands with a unified approach. Leverage platform-specific features, like Instagram Highlights, to highlight core values and offerings. For further insights, consider enrolling in social media marketing training courses online to deepen your comprehension of effective branding strategies. Keyword-Rich Bio Optimization When you optimize your social media profiles with a keyword-rich bio, you greatly improve your visibility and appeal to potential followers. Including specific keywords, like “social media marketing online course,” elevates your searchability, making it easier for users to find you based on relevant terms. Aim to keep your bio concise, ideally between 150-160 characters, so it displays well across devices. A strong call-to-action (CTA) can guide visitors to take desired actions, such as checking out your website or latest offerings. Remember to regularly update your bio to reflect current campaigns or promotions, ensuring it stays fresh and engaging. This alignment with audience interests helps maintain relevance and boosts your profile’s effectiveness. Develop a Consistent Posting Schedule A consistent posting schedule is crucial for maintaining audience engagement, especially since studies show that brands posting 3-7 times per week on platforms like Instagram experience higher interaction rates. Utilize analytics tools to identify ideal posting times, which guarantees your content reaches your audience when they’re most active. A content calendar is key for planning posts, aligning your messaging with events and trends as you offer a diverse mix of content types. Engaging in social media training courses can further improve your posting strategy, allowing you to develop effective practices for brand recall and visibility. Posting Frequency Engagement Benefit 1-2 times/week Low visibility 3-4 times/week Moderate interaction 5-7 times/week High engagement Daily Maximum audience connection Foster Community Engagement To effectively promote community engagement on social media, brands should prioritize direct interactions with their audience. Engaging through open-ended questions, polls, and contests can boost interaction, as 70% of consumers prefer brands that respond to their feedback. Furthermore, sharing user-generated content, like testimonials and photos, improves authenticity, influencing 79% of consumers’ purchasing decisions. Regularly responding to comments and messages increases customer satisfaction rates by 20-40%. Hosting online community events or live Q&A sessions can deepen connections, with 60% of marketers noting that engagement drives brand loyalty. To guarantee consistent interaction, consider implementing a content calendar. You might likewise benefit from a social media training workshop to learn effective strategies for improving community engagement. Leverage Influencer Partnerships To effectively leverage influencer partnerships, start by identifying relevant influencers who align with your brand and target audience. Create authentic collaborations that resonate with both the influencer’s followers and your brand values, as this nurtures trust and boosts engagement. Finally, measure campaign performance to understand the impact of your efforts and refine future strategies for even better results. Identify Relevant Influencers Identifying relevant influencers is essential for maximizing the impact of your social media marketing efforts. To guarantee successful influencer marketing, focus on these key strategies: Align with Your Audience: Select influencers whose follower demographics match your target audience, as 68% of marketers prioritize engagement over follower count. Consider Micro-Influencers: Collaborate with micro-influencers (1,000 to 100,000 followers) to achieve 60% higher engagement rates, making your campaigns more effective. Emphasize Authenticity: Choose influencers who genuinely embody your brand values, since 92% of consumers trust individual recommendations over brand promotions. Create Authentic Collaborations Building on your efforts to identify relevant influencers, creating authentic collaborations is essential to leveraging those partnerships effectively. Collaborating with influencers can considerably boost your brand reach, as nearly 49% of consumers rely on their recommendations when deciding to purchase. Authenticity plays a vital role; brands that work with influencers who genuinely endorse their products see engagement rates of 3.86%, compared to just 1.9% for non-authentic partnerships. Consider utilizing micro-influencers, who often achieve an impressive 7% engagement rate. Developing long-term relationships with influencers can improve consumer trust by 37%, making your social strategy more effective. Focus on aligning with influencers who resonate with your brand values for ideal results and increased campaign effectiveness. Measure Campaign Performance Measuring campaign performance is vital for comprehending the effectiveness of your influencer partnerships. To effectively gauge success, track relevant key performance indicators (KPIs). Here are three significant metrics to focus on: Engagement Rates: Analyze likes, shares, and comments to determine how well your content resonates. Reach: Assess how many people were exposed to your campaign through influencer channels. Conversion Metrics: Monitor sales and website traffic that can be directly linked to influencer-driven efforts. Utilizing unique tracking links or promo codes will help measure campaign performance accurately. For deeper insights, consider A/B testing different influencer collaborations. If you’re looking to improve your skills, check out free online marketing courses with certificates to learn more about optimizing your strategies. Measure Success With Analytics Analytics play an important role in evaluating the success of your social media marketing strategies. Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like reach, engagement rates, and conversion rates is vital for measuring effectiveness. Utilize built-in analytics tools from platforms such as Facebook Insights and Instagram Analytics to gain valuable insights into audience behavior and content performance. Regularly monitor metrics like follower growth and interaction levels to identify trends, informing data-driven decisions for future optimization. A/B testing different content formats and posting times helps refine your approach based on what resonates best. Furthermore, consider using third-party tools like Sprout Social and Hootsuite to consolidate analytics across various platforms, providing a thorough view of your social media performance. Enroll in social media marketing courses for deeper insights. Evolve Your Strategy Based on Insights To optimize your social media marketing strategy, regular analysis of performance metrics is key. By consistently reviewing data, you can make informed adjustments that improve your effectiveness. Here are three crucial steps to reflect on: Analyze engagement rates, reach, and conversions to identify what content works best. Use social listening tools to gauge audience sentiment and adapt your content accordingly. Conduct A/B testing on different formats and visuals to find what resonates with your audience. Additionally, look at platform-specific analytics to adjust your posting times and keep an eye on competitors to stay updated on industry trends. These tactics can serve as a solid social strategy example, ensuring your campaigns remain relevant and impactful. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 C’s of Social Media Strategy? The 7 C’s of social media strategy are Content, Community, Communication, Consistency, Creativity, Conversion, and Context. Content delivers value and engages your audience. Community focuses on building relationships with followers. Communication involves open dialogue and prompt responses to feedback. Consistency maintains your brand’s voice across platforms. Creativity differentiates your content. Conversion aims to turn engagement into action, and Context guarantees your messaging aligns with your audience’s preferences and current trends. What Is the Best Strategy for Social Media Marketing? The best strategy for social media marketing involves setting SMART goals to measure success effectively. You should tailor your content to each platform, ensuring high-quality visuals for Instagram and professional insights for LinkedIn. Regular audience research helps you understand demographics and behaviors, allowing for targeted content. Consistent posting, ideally 3-5 times weekly on Instagram, keeps your audience engaged. Finally, use analytics tools to track KPIs and refine your approach based on performance insights. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 rule on social media suggests that for every five posts you share, you should curate five from other sources and promote five. This balanced approach helps keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them with promotional content. By mixing original and curated posts, you provide value and cultivate trust within your community. Implementing this strategy can improve your brand’s credibility and encourage meaningful interactions with your followers. What Are the 7 P’s of Social Media Marketing? The 7 P’s of social media marketing are Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Process, and Physical Evidence. Product focuses on the offerings you present, highlighting features and benefits. Price relates to your pricing strategies, including promotions to entice buyers. Place refers to the platforms where your audience engages. Promotion encompasses tactics like ads and influencer partnerships, whereas People involves comprehension of your target market. Process guarantees efficient operations, and Physical Evidence supports brand credibility. Conclusion In conclusion, implementing these ten crucial strategies can greatly improve your social media marketing effectiveness. By comprehending your audience, setting clear goals, and choosing the right platforms, you lay a strong foundation. Creating engaging content and nurturing community interaction further boosts your brand’s presence. Furthermore, leveraging influencer partnerships and measuring success through analytics allow for continual improvement. Regularly reassessing your strategies guarantees you stay relevant in a constantly changing digital environment, finally driving conversions and building customer loyalty. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Essential Strategies for Effective Social Media Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

To succeed in social media marketing, you need to implement key strategies that effectively engage your audience. Start by identifying who your target audience is, then set clear, measurable goals. Choosing the right platforms and optimizing your profiles is crucial, as is creating content that resonates with users. By nurturing community engagement and leveraging influencer partnerships, you can improve your brand’s visibility. Comprehending the metrics will likewise help you adapt your strategies for better results. Let’s explore these strategies in detail. Key Takeaways Understand your target audience by creating ideal customer personas and utilizing market research tools for insights. Choose the right social media platforms based on demographics and user behavior to maximize engagement. Create high-quality, engaging content that encourages audience interaction and maintains consistent visual branding. Leverage influencer partnerships by collaborating with authentic influencers that align with your brand values for better reach. Measure campaign performance using analytics tools to track engagement, reach, and conversion metrics for ongoing strategy refinement. Understand Your Target Audience How well do you really know your target audience? Comprehending your audience is essential for an effective social media strategy. Start by defining your ideal customer persona through analysis of existing demographics, behaviors, and feedback. Utilize market research tools like Google Analytics to gather valuable insights into audience preferences and behaviors. Moreover, engage in social media listening to monitor mentions of your brand and competitors, which reveals audience sentiment and engagement patterns. Research shows that 82% of consumers feel social media influences their buying decisions, so it’s imperative to grasp their motivations. Set SMART Social Media Goals Setting SMART social media goals is vital for guiding your marketing efforts effectively, as it guarantees that your objectives are clear and actionable. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, aiming to increase your Instagram followers by 20% within six months provides a clear metric for success. By establishing measurable goals, you can track your performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rates and conversion numbers. It’s important to align these social media goals with your overall business objectives, such as boosting website traffic or generating leads, enhancing their relevance. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your SMART goals based on performance data guarantees ongoing optimization, making your social media strategy plan both effective and responsive to market trends. Choose the Right Social Media Platforms Selecting the right social media platforms can greatly impact your marketing success. Start by comprehending the demographics of each platform; for instance, Facebook is popular with adults aged 50 to 64, whereas TikTok attracts a younger crowd, with 60% of users aged 18 to 29. Each platform offers unique features—Instagram shines with visual content, and LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking. Use tools like Google Analytics to research where your target audience spends time online, helping you prioritize platforms effectively. Regularly analyze engagement metrics on your chosen platforms to see which yield the best results. By adapting your social media strategy examples to align with each platform’s characteristics, you can improve audience engagement and drive better marketing outcomes. Create Engaging Content Creating engaging content is essential for capturing your audience’s attention. High-quality visuals not just improve your posts but can likewise lead to a significant increase in engagement, so make certain they align with your brand’s style. Furthermore, encouraging audience interaction through polls or user-generated content can nurture community and authenticity, making your brand more relatable. Visual Appeal Matters Visual appeal plays a crucial role in social media marketing, as posts that incorporate high-quality visuals can capture considerably more attention than those relying solely on text. Research shows that posts with images or videos are 650% more likely to engage users, making visuals a requirement. Incorporating videos can boost engagement rates by 48%, whereas infographics can increase information retention by up to 60%. Consistency in visual branding, including color schemes and logos, improves brand recognition by 80%. If you’re looking to improve your strategies, consider enrolling in social media marketing courses that emphasize these visual elements. Encourage Audience Interaction How can you effectively encourage audience interaction on social media? Start by creating engaging content like polls, contests, and open-ended questions. These strategies can increase engagement considerably, with comment-driven posts receiving 6.5 times more interaction. Incorporate user-generated content (UGC) to build community and authenticity, as 79% of consumers say it influences their purchasing decisions. Tailor your content to reflect audience interests, such as lifestyle posts or behind-the-scenes glimpses, which can boost engagement rates by 28%. Use dynamic visuals and short-form videos, as 80% of users prefer video content. Finally, consistently respond to comments and messages, as 70% of consumers report that friendly customer service improves brand loyalty, a fundamental concept in social media marketing training. Optimize Your Social Media Profiles To optimize your social media profiles, you should guarantee consistent branding elements like logos and colors across all platforms, as this builds recognition and trust. Craft a keyword-rich bio that clearly communicates your brand’s purpose, which not just improves discoverability but likewise attracts the right audience. Consistent Branding Across Platforms Establishing consistent branding across your social media platforms is crucial for enhancing brand recognition and cultivating consumer trust. To achieve this, use the same logo, color palette, and brand voice across all profiles. Studies show cohesive branding can boost revenue by up to 23%. Make sure your profiles reflect your latest marketing campaigns by regularly updating visuals and information. This consistency not only reinforces your narrative but also increases the likelihood of consumer engagement, as 73% of users prefer brands with a unified approach. Leverage platform-specific features, like Instagram Highlights, to highlight core values and offerings. For further insights, consider enrolling in social media marketing training courses online to deepen your comprehension of effective branding strategies. Keyword-Rich Bio Optimization When you optimize your social media profiles with a keyword-rich bio, you greatly improve your visibility and appeal to potential followers. Including specific keywords, like “social media marketing online course,” elevates your searchability, making it easier for users to find you based on relevant terms. Aim to keep your bio concise, ideally between 150-160 characters, so it displays well across devices. A strong call-to-action (CTA) can guide visitors to take desired actions, such as checking out your website or latest offerings. Remember to regularly update your bio to reflect current campaigns or promotions, ensuring it stays fresh and engaging. This alignment with audience interests helps maintain relevance and boosts your profile’s effectiveness. Develop a Consistent Posting Schedule A consistent posting schedule is crucial for maintaining audience engagement, especially since studies show that brands posting 3-7 times per week on platforms like Instagram experience higher interaction rates. Utilize analytics tools to identify ideal posting times, which guarantees your content reaches your audience when they’re most active. A content calendar is key for planning posts, aligning your messaging with events and trends as you offer a diverse mix of content types. Engaging in social media training courses can further improve your posting strategy, allowing you to develop effective practices for brand recall and visibility. Posting Frequency Engagement Benefit 1-2 times/week Low visibility 3-4 times/week Moderate interaction 5-7 times/week High engagement Daily Maximum audience connection Foster Community Engagement To effectively promote community engagement on social media, brands should prioritize direct interactions with their audience. Engaging through open-ended questions, polls, and contests can boost interaction, as 70% of consumers prefer brands that respond to their feedback. Furthermore, sharing user-generated content, like testimonials and photos, improves authenticity, influencing 79% of consumers’ purchasing decisions. Regularly responding to comments and messages increases customer satisfaction rates by 20-40%. Hosting online community events or live Q&A sessions can deepen connections, with 60% of marketers noting that engagement drives brand loyalty. To guarantee consistent interaction, consider implementing a content calendar. You might likewise benefit from a social media training workshop to learn effective strategies for improving community engagement. Leverage Influencer Partnerships To effectively leverage influencer partnerships, start by identifying relevant influencers who align with your brand and target audience. Create authentic collaborations that resonate with both the influencer’s followers and your brand values, as this nurtures trust and boosts engagement. Finally, measure campaign performance to understand the impact of your efforts and refine future strategies for even better results. Identify Relevant Influencers Identifying relevant influencers is essential for maximizing the impact of your social media marketing efforts. To guarantee successful influencer marketing, focus on these key strategies: Align with Your Audience: Select influencers whose follower demographics match your target audience, as 68% of marketers prioritize engagement over follower count. Consider Micro-Influencers: Collaborate with micro-influencers (1,000 to 100,000 followers) to achieve 60% higher engagement rates, making your campaigns more effective. Emphasize Authenticity: Choose influencers who genuinely embody your brand values, since 92% of consumers trust individual recommendations over brand promotions. Create Authentic Collaborations Building on your efforts to identify relevant influencers, creating authentic collaborations is essential to leveraging those partnerships effectively. Collaborating with influencers can considerably boost your brand reach, as nearly 49% of consumers rely on their recommendations when deciding to purchase. Authenticity plays a vital role; brands that work with influencers who genuinely endorse their products see engagement rates of 3.86%, compared to just 1.9% for non-authentic partnerships. Consider utilizing micro-influencers, who often achieve an impressive 7% engagement rate. Developing long-term relationships with influencers can improve consumer trust by 37%, making your social strategy more effective. Focus on aligning with influencers who resonate with your brand values for ideal results and increased campaign effectiveness. Measure Campaign Performance Measuring campaign performance is vital for comprehending the effectiveness of your influencer partnerships. To effectively gauge success, track relevant key performance indicators (KPIs). Here are three significant metrics to focus on: Engagement Rates: Analyze likes, shares, and comments to determine how well your content resonates. Reach: Assess how many people were exposed to your campaign through influencer channels. Conversion Metrics: Monitor sales and website traffic that can be directly linked to influencer-driven efforts. Utilizing unique tracking links or promo codes will help measure campaign performance accurately. For deeper insights, consider A/B testing different influencer collaborations. If you’re looking to improve your skills, check out free online marketing courses with certificates to learn more about optimizing your strategies. Measure Success With Analytics Analytics play an important role in evaluating the success of your social media marketing strategies. Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like reach, engagement rates, and conversion rates is vital for measuring effectiveness. Utilize built-in analytics tools from platforms such as Facebook Insights and Instagram Analytics to gain valuable insights into audience behavior and content performance. Regularly monitor metrics like follower growth and interaction levels to identify trends, informing data-driven decisions for future optimization. A/B testing different content formats and posting times helps refine your approach based on what resonates best. Furthermore, consider using third-party tools like Sprout Social and Hootsuite to consolidate analytics across various platforms, providing a thorough view of your social media performance. Enroll in social media marketing courses for deeper insights. Evolve Your Strategy Based on Insights To optimize your social media marketing strategy, regular analysis of performance metrics is key. By consistently reviewing data, you can make informed adjustments that improve your effectiveness. Here are three crucial steps to reflect on: Analyze engagement rates, reach, and conversions to identify what content works best. Use social listening tools to gauge audience sentiment and adapt your content accordingly. Conduct A/B testing on different formats and visuals to find what resonates with your audience. Additionally, look at platform-specific analytics to adjust your posting times and keep an eye on competitors to stay updated on industry trends. These tactics can serve as a solid social strategy example, ensuring your campaigns remain relevant and impactful. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 C’s of Social Media Strategy? The 7 C’s of social media strategy are Content, Community, Communication, Consistency, Creativity, Conversion, and Context. Content delivers value and engages your audience. Community focuses on building relationships with followers. Communication involves open dialogue and prompt responses to feedback. Consistency maintains your brand’s voice across platforms. Creativity differentiates your content. Conversion aims to turn engagement into action, and Context guarantees your messaging aligns with your audience’s preferences and current trends. What Is the Best Strategy for Social Media Marketing? The best strategy for social media marketing involves setting SMART goals to measure success effectively. You should tailor your content to each platform, ensuring high-quality visuals for Instagram and professional insights for LinkedIn. Regular audience research helps you understand demographics and behaviors, allowing for targeted content. Consistent posting, ideally 3-5 times weekly on Instagram, keeps your audience engaged. Finally, use analytics tools to track KPIs and refine your approach based on performance insights. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 rule on social media suggests that for every five posts you share, you should curate five from other sources and promote five. This balanced approach helps keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them with promotional content. By mixing original and curated posts, you provide value and cultivate trust within your community. Implementing this strategy can improve your brand’s credibility and encourage meaningful interactions with your followers. What Are the 7 P’s of Social Media Marketing? The 7 P’s of social media marketing are Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Process, and Physical Evidence. Product focuses on the offerings you present, highlighting features and benefits. Price relates to your pricing strategies, including promotions to entice buyers. Place refers to the platforms where your audience engages. Promotion encompasses tactics like ads and influencer partnerships, whereas People involves comprehension of your target market. Process guarantees efficient operations, and Physical Evidence supports brand credibility. Conclusion In conclusion, implementing these ten crucial strategies can greatly improve your social media marketing effectiveness. By comprehending your audience, setting clear goals, and choosing the right platforms, you lay a strong foundation. Creating engaging content and nurturing community interaction further boosts your brand’s presence. Furthermore, leveraging influencer partnerships and measuring success through analytics allow for continual improvement. Regularly reassessing your strategies guarantees you stay relevant in a constantly changing digital environment, finally driving conversions and building customer loyalty. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Essential Strategies for Effective Social Media Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Declining issuances since 2022 led to a request for information regarding the future direction of the reverse mortgage program, and NRMLA and MBA responded. View the full article

Decision makers have voiced support for lower financing costs but researchers have said achieving it could be complicated. Part 3 in a series. View the full article

Rare earths’ monopoly. Unrivaled manufacturing supply chains. Free AI models that rival, or surpass, its American counterparts. More research papers and more STEM doctorates than anyone else. If you are reading a lot about these topics lately, you know how China’s decades-long strategy to become the top global superpower—and the greatest threat to U.S. world domination—is coming to fruition. What you may not be aware of is the other crucial part of Beijing’s plans; its industrial ramp up to dominate the most crucial resource on the planet: the oceans. China’s pursuit of maritime dominance has shifted from a regional ambition to a global reality, driven by a “breakneck speed” naval expansion that rivals that of the U.S. during World War II. The Asian country has already produced the world’s largest military fleet by ship count (although Washington still dominates in tonnage thanks to its large aircraft carrier groups). Yet Beijing’s strategy for controlling the Indo-Pacific—and beyond—relies on more than just warships; it increasingly depends on gray zone tactics that blur the line between scientific research and military projection. China is systematically deploying dual-use “civilian” assets—from oceanographic survey ships to militarized fishing fleets—to map key strategic waterways and assert sovereignty without firing a shot.​ This “advancing without attacking” doctrine is now escalating with a new class of megastructures designed to solidify China’s permanent presence in contested waters. While the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) challenges U.S. supremacy with advanced carriers like the Fujian and new nuclear carriers in preparation, Beijing is simultaneously rolling out a parallel infrastructure of floating islands and underwater bases. China says that it is built for the blue economy—the idea that the oceans are a huge resource still waiting to be untapped—which is true. But, oh the wonders! These facilities are engineered with military-grade survivability, effectively functioning as forward-operating bases that extend China’s reach far beyond its shores while maintaining a veneer of civilian legitimacy.​​ The latest entries in this network of assets are deep-sea bases, underwater server farms, and, now, a floating research platform engineered to withstand nuclear blasts. Together, these projects form a connected infrastructure designed for long-term operations, resource extraction, and data processing at sea designed not only to gain scientific and industrial advantages but to expand Beijing’s footprint in the world’s oceans. First of its kind Let’s look at these one by one, starting with the most impressive: Detailed in a research paper published earlier this month in the Chinese Journal of Ship Research, the new Deep-Sea All-Weather Resident Floating Research Facility is a 86,000-ton semi-submersible platform described by its developers as a mobile, self-sustaining artificial island. Contracts with the shipyard that will build it—the China State Shipbuilding Corporation—specify a twin-hull vessel 453 feet long and 279 feet wide, with a main deck rising 148 feet above the waterline, according to the South China Morning Post. It is designed to house 238 people for up to four months without resupply.​ It’s an incredible project with no rival anywhere in the world. According to Yang Deqing and his team at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the facility is built for “all-weather, long-term residency.” Its superstructure contains critical compartments for emergency power, communications, and navigation that are hardened to remain operational after a nuclear explosion.​ The platform is rated to operate in Sea State 7—rough seas with waves between 20 feet and 30 feet—and to survive typhoons up to Category 17, the highest rating on the Chinese scale. Project leader Lin Zhongqin stated that his team is “racing to complete the design and construction, aiming for operational status by 2028.” The vessel will cruise at approximately 17 miles per hour to conduct deep-sea observations and test mining technologies in areas including the South China Sea.​ But perhaps the most impressive thing after its absurdly large size and its towering dual-hull design is the material they invented to make it capable of withstand a nuclear shock wave without the weight of traditional heavy armor. The engineers designed a “sandwich bulkhead” using a lattice of corrugated metal tubes. These tubes, folded at a precise 21.25-degree angle with walls just 0.02 inches thick, utilize something technically called a “negative Poisson’s ratio” which means that, unlike standard materials that bulge outward when compressed, this structure contracts inward and densifies, distributing the impact.​ They claim their simulations showed a 2.4-inch thick panel—roughly the width of a smartphone—outperforming thicker steel plates. Under a simulated nuclear blast pressure of 25.8 psi (177.83 kilopascals), the design reduced maximum structural displacement by 58.53% compared to conventional armor.​ An underwater space station China is also deploying a James Bond-like underwater base located at a depth of roughly 6,560 feet in the South China Sea, which appears to be the first out of many. According to project leader Yin Jianping, of the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, the project is a “space station in the sea.” Connected to a fiber-optic network, its pressurized modules are designed to host six scientists for up to a month.​ The base will investigate how to extract methane hydrate—to help satisfy the country’s ever-growing energy needs—and survey deposits of rare earth elements, cobalt, and nickel. It will be supported by the drilling ship Meng Xiang and a network of uncrewed submersibles that will double as a surveillance system for the country. In parallel, China has deployed its first commercial underwater data center off the coast of Hainan. A 1,433-ton structure submerged 115 feet deep that houses 24 server racks. Project manager Pu Ding points out that they “put the entire data cabin in the deep sea because seawater can help cool down the temperature.”​ The developers claim this passive cooling can save around 90% of the energy typically used for climate control in land-based centers. A similar test unit near Shanghai will draw power from offshore wind farms, and the company that is building this data center estimates that over 95% of its energy will come from renewable sources.​ The idea is not new. Microsoft tested it and found out that, indeed, it works great. Surprisingly, the Redmond, Washington company is not working on it anymore and will not scale the idea up. Which is both sad—because of the huge energy waste that current server farms represent, which could be greatly reduced by natural cooling—and shocking because the U.S. is in the middle of a worldwide war for AI domination with China. The latter is not leaving a stone unturned to win that war, which is precisely what this new floating megastructure is all about. Beijing is not going to stop at making your iPhones, your rare earth magnets, and building the best AIs using the largest army of STEM doctors in the world. China wants to become the biggest maritime superpower too—just like Spain, Britain, and the U.S. in past centuries. And we are witnessing its overture in real time. View the full article

Mark Manson’s 2016 book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck delivered some hard truths and prescient advice to millions of readers seeking answers. Now he’s building an AI-based application to do the same. At that time, Manson says the self-help field was “unrealistic, not very evidence based—just designed to make you feel good,” inspiring him to write a book that offered “a more skeptical, realistic, and zero bull shit approach to personal growth and self-help.” Nearly a decade later, Manson says he’s seeing the same pattern in the digital world, with millions turning to generic AI platforms for guidance, only to receive unrealistic, potentially harmful advice. That’s what inspired him to team up with serial tech entrepreneur Raj Singh—who most recently sold his AI hotel concierge service GoMoment—to create on-demand life coaching app Purpose, which launches this week. The AI tool offers users life guidance and actionable steps to solve problems, from career to relationships and beyond. It also seeks to challenge, rather than validate users (something many experts have argued many AI platforms do), albeit in a polite, supportive tone. It pairs existing research into cognitive behavioral therapy with data gathered from users upon sign up, and retains conversation history to track patterns over time. According to an internal survey, 41% of early users said the app has been “life-changing.” “We’ve actually had a number of people tell us that they’ve cried while using it,” Manson says. “We really tried to build this AI to go deep quickly, to not beat around the bush or do any fake pleasantries.” Fast Company caught up with the author-turned-tech-founder from Los Angeles to talk about the legacy of The Subtle Art, whether we’re ready to share our deepest thoughts with an app, and why AI is the perfect tool to deliver personalized coaching at scale. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity. Were you surprised by the success of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck? The scope of the success caught me off guard. My pie-in-the-sky dream at the time was a million copies, so the fact that it’s exceeded that so drastically has been a pleasant surprise. Why do you think it was such a hit? When I got started in this industry in the early 2010s, self-help was very touchy-feely, very woo-woo. It was, in my opinion, unrealistic, not very evidence based—just designed to make you feel good. It felt like there was a deep hunger, especially among millennials, for a skeptical, realistic, zero-bullshit approach to personal growth and self-help. That was the inspiration. Coincidentally a lot of the cultural observations at the time—like about social media and distraction and chronically comparing ourselves to others—have aged really well. I think I identified early on the world we were heading toward. How has your life changed since? Financial security is probably the single biggest change, and that’s great, but being a very successful author is weird in that the book is the celebrity, not me. I’m not getting recognized on the street or anything. It’s just a bunch of numbers on emails that you’re like “wow, that’s a large number.” Then you go back to your same apartment and hang out with your same friends. Why transition from author to tech cofounder? When my career started to blow up, there were opportunities to do seminars and start a coaching business, but I didn’t really want to charge somebody $5,000 to spend a weekend in a hotel ballroom with me. I’ve been obsessed with this question of, how can we help more people? Like, what does a better version of this industry look like? One of the problems I identified well before ChatGPT came out is that the stuff that actually works doesn’t scale, and the stuff that scales doesn’t work. My book was read by millions of people, but a book has to talk in broad principles, and the reader needs to connect the dots for themselves. It might move the needle for some people, but not much. What really works is working with an excellent coach or therapist, which is extremely personalized and requires a major investment of time and energy, so it doesn’t scale. Then ChatGPT came out, and I heard people were asking it big life questions. I tried it myself, and it does okay in terms of some questions, but not others. It felt like there was an opportunity for a properly trained AI to scale that personalization. How did you meet your cofounder? At a poker game. After ChatGPT came out, I was meeting with AI companies, but they didn’t really get it. And then I sat down next to Raj Singh at a poker game just as he was finishing a sabbatical in 2023, and was independently thinking about doing something with AI and mental health. We started chatting, and it turns out we were thinking about the same question. What is Purpose all about? What makes it different from generic AI platforms? Purpose is a personalized AI mentor designed to help you find clarity and direction in your life as soon as possible. One of the biggest issues I see with using ChatGPT for life questions is that its default approach is to validate you. If you complain about your ex-girlfriends, ChatGPT will tell you they’re terrible, and you’re a great guy, so just pick yourself up and it’ll be okay when what you might actually need to hear is like, “hey dude, you might be the problem.” The goal with Purpose is to build an AI that will challenge your assumptions, poke holes in some of your beliefs, point out blind spots, and help you reconsider how you see your own approach. The app does take a positive tone, though. There’s a fine line between flattery and positivity, and it’s something we’re trying to calibrate all the time. It changes based on the user, the context, the issue. Part of our onboarding experience is designed to get an early read of the user’s personality traits. The AI speaks to people differently based on how agreeable they are. Some people want very direct advice, others want it to be a bit more encouraging and positive, and it’s something we’re working on fine tuning all the time. The entire field of psychology is already in all these LLMs. The value is finding that calibration. ChatGPT is poorly calibrated for it, partly because of the sycophancy, partly because of the lack of personalization, partly because of the poor memory. We’re trying to fix those things. Are people open to receiving that advice from a bot? When you’re talking to a human—even a trusted person, like a therapist—it’s almost impossible to not worry what that person thinks about you. With AI, I don’t care. I don’t feel shame: I just say what I feel. And what I’ve also found is that when it gives me harsh feedback, I don’t feel that social anxiety that’s attached to criticism or negative feedback from a person. What about privacy and security concerns? Trust is by far the most important thing in this space. We are building Purpose with all the highest security and privacy regulations, like HIPAA and GDPR. Conversations are anonymized on each device, so even if somebody puts a gun to my head or Raj’s, we can’t share your conversations, because we don’t have any way to identify individual users. It’s also entirely self-funded—which is something Raj and I feel very strongly about—to keep the proper incentives in place and not jeopardize the goal and mission of the product. What’s next for you personally? I am going to be strongly involved in Purpose’s product design, but I do feel like it’s probably time to write another book. It’s been about five years, and I need to get back on that horse. Did Purpose suggest that? Not specifically. But it probably would have if I asked. View the full article

OpenAI appeared to be closer to pulling the trigger on advertising in ChatGPT in recent days, but a growing threat from Google has forced the company to pause those plans as it gears up for a quickly escalating chatbot fight. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sent a memo to staff on December 1 declaring a “code red” and ordering the company’s primary focus to be on improving ChatGPT. As part of that directive, Altman reportedly said the company would be pushing back work on other projects, including the introduction of advertising to its chatbot. The about-face came just days after Tibor Blaho, an engineer working on a Chrome extension that offers pre-written prompts for ChatGPT, posted on social media that he had discovered lines of code which heavily referenced ads in a beta version of ChatGPT’s Android app, including mentions of “ads feature,” “search ad,” and “bazaar content.” (That beta has not yet been released to the public.) Altman has hedged when the topic of ads in ChatGPT has come up previously. While saying he “hates ads” personally, he added at a 2024 Harvard University fireside chat that he was “not totally against them” and stressed, “I’m not saying OpenAI would never consider ads.” He cushioned those comments, though, by saying “ads plus AI is uniquely unsettling to me. When I think of GPT writing me a response, if I had to go figure out exactly how much was [a sponsor] paying . . . to influence what I’m being shown, I don’t think I would like that very much.” The discovery of ad code is not conclusive proof that ChatGPT will incorporate advertisements into its chatbot. It’s possible OpenAI is planning to work with other companies to let them personalize ad content on other sites based on ChatGPT usage. OpenAI did not immediately reply to a request for comment about the ad code. ChatGPT has become a Goliath in the AI space. In October, Altman disclosed that the chatbot sees 800 million weekly active users, a big jump from the 500 million WAUs it reported at the end of March. It has amassed that sizable user base in just three years. But as it has grown, so too have competitors. Google’s Gemini AI has emerged recently as perhaps the most serious threat to OpenAI’s dominance, outpacing ChatGPT in industry benchmarks. Gemini 3, released last month, also has a huge built-in user base, as the technology was inserted into Google Search as well as a full suite of developer tools. Altman’s memo indicates the company is feeling the pressure from Gemini and other AI firms, which (like OpenAI) are spending heavily in the race for leadership in the AI space. Altman told his team that work needed to be done on improving personalization for users, increasing speed and reliability, and widening the range of questions that ChatGPT can answer. Right now, OpenAI generates much of its revenue from partnerships with businesses that use its API model and via paid subscriptions to its most advanced technology. (A free version that is less advanced is available to users who prefer not to pay.) The company is on track to hit $20 billion in revenue this year. Altman has said he expects that figure to grow to hundreds of billions by 2030. Even so, the company says it cannot guarantee it will turn a profit within the next five years, given the high cost of computing. In the meantime, it expects to post massive losses, including a projected $74 billion shortfall in 2028. View the full article

Businesses still spend billions each year on management training programs, but here we are in 2025—with a growing leadership gap and executives scrambling for answers. And if I can get honest for a moment: We’re still approaching the problem backward. Senior leaders keep promoting high-performing individual contributors into leadership roles and expecting them to figure it out on the fly. Many don’t have the time, support, or temperament to lead people well. Then we’re surprised when the results are uneven or the team burns out. Before companies invest in another round of training, they need to start with a more fundamental question: Are we choosing the right people to lead? And more important, are we modeling the leadership behaviors we want them to learn? Start with what actually works: Model servant leadership Leadership boils down to people, trust, and relationships. And the simple truth is still the same today: Great leaders lead by serving. They focus on what their people need to succeed—clarity, coaching, safety, and support—not on protecting their own ego or authority. For readers familiar with my coaching work and the book I authored earlier this year, you know I’ve been beating this drum for years: Servant leadership has moved from a niche, values-driven concept to the core operating philosophy of many of the world’s most admired and profitable companies. After over two decades of developing leaders, I’ve seen a consistent pattern: The best leaders genuinely want their people to thrive. They’re willing to put the team’s needs first, share credit freely, and take responsibility when things go sideways. They grow people rather than simply manage tasks. And that kind of growth—personal, professional, relational—is what builds resilient teams. Whether you lead 3 people or 3,000, these behaviors will elevate your impact and build trust faster than any leadership playbook. 1. Build trust through real, intentional caring Strong leaders show interest in people’s work, their goals, and their long-term direction. They’re curious about what motivates each person and intentional about creating opportunities that stretch their skills. This isn’t “soft.” It’s emotional engagement—and it’s one of the biggest drivers of performance and retention. Think about it: When leaders support their people through promotions and pay raises (first and foremost), internal moves, stretch assignments, or removing obstacles from their path, it sends a powerful message—you matter. As the (often-attributed) John C. Maxwell quote goes, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” When employees feel their leaders genuinely care, confidence rises, performance follows, and career paths become healthier and more aligned with their strengths. 2. Use empathy to connect with others and drive results In 2018, Global training powerhouse Development Dimensions International (DDI) assessed 15,000-plus leaders across 20 industries and found empathy to be the strongest predictor of overall performance—especially the ability to listen and respond with empathy. That hasn’t changed. If anything, the modern workplace—with hybrid teams, rising burnout, AI, and constant change—has made empathy even more essential. But empathy isn’t a strategy you perform and it doesn’t come from a to-do list. It shows up in how you listen, how you check in, and how you respond to someone’s reality—even when their experience is different from your own. Empathic leaders don’t just hear what people say; they understand the context, emotions, and challenges behind it. That perspective creates psychological safety, and safety unlocks creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. 3. Be radically transparent A transparent culture builds trust and fosters collaboration. When people feel safe voicing their thoughts, it deepens engagement and creates a more resilient, trustworthy team dynamic. Tip: Encourage employees to ask any question—yes, even the hard ones. People also don’t stress around transparent leaders and teamwork isn’t undermined, because information is shared openly to let everyone know what’s going on at all times. Going a step further, studies prove that organizations that share privileged information with their employees—typically reserved for the ivory tower in command-and-control power structures—reduce uncertainty and alleviate stress about where they are headed and why. One example of openness, perhaps a bit extreme for most companies, is social media optimization company Buffer. It goes so far as to post its formula for salaries online for everyone to see, including the compensation of CEO Joel Gascoigne. Bringing it home No leadership framework works without spending real time with your people. Learn who they are, what energizes them, and what blocks them. Understand their strengths, their motivations, their values, and their blind spots. So here’s a question worth asking yourself today: How well do you really know the people you lead? If you want to advance your leadership impact, start by serving. Learn what matters to your team. Shape roles that offer meaning and purpose. Use their strengths wisely. And champion their growth—even if that growth eventually takes them to a new team or a new company. When you invest in people this way, you don’t just build stronger teams. You build a healthier culture, a deeper bench of future leaders, and long-term success for everyone involved. Like this article? Subscribe here for more related content and exclusive insights from executive coach and speaker Marcel Schwantes. —Marcel Schwantes This article originally appeared on Fast Company’s sister publication, Inc. Inc. is the voice of the American entrepreneur. We inspire, inform, and document the most fascinating people in business: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters that represent the most dynamic force in the American economy. View the full article

Age really is just a number when it comes to social media, as new research from Ampere Analysis shows that more than half of users ages 55 to 64 now watch influencer content every week. This number is up by 10 percentage points since 2020. In the U.K., the figure has also risen over the past five years, from 30% to 38%. TikTok and YouTube, in particular, are behind the growth—proof that Boomers’ social media presence is no longer limited to Facebook. “The biggest surprise in our latest data wasn’t how popular influencer videos have become, it is how rapidly this trend has extended to older audiences,” Annabel Yeomans, senior research manager at Ampere Analysis, said in a statement on December 1. That age group—55 to 64—delivered the highest growth in YouTube’s monthly viewing from the first quarter of 2020 to the third quarter of 2025, up by 25% in the U.S. and 14% in the U.K. In the past year alone, TikTok’s monthly active users grew 6% in the U.S. and 16% in the U.K. among audiences ages 55 to 64. The growing popularity of influencer content with older viewers comes as YouTube has established itself as a living-room viewing experience. More than a quarter (29%) now use a smart TV monthly to watch YouTube, as smart TV ownership among internet users ages 55 to 64 in the U.K. and the U.S. is up 20 percentage points since the pandemic, jumping from 59% to 79%. “As viewing habits diversify and platforms like YouTube and TikTok become part of living-room viewing, the lines between social and traditional platforms are blurring,” Yeomans said. Streaming platforms have responded by partnering with influencers on premium content, as Netflix has with kids’ educator Rachel Anne Accurso’s Ms. Rachel videos and Amazon has with Molly-Mae Hague’s docuseries, Molly-Mae: Behind It All. And yet, just 15% of older consumers globally feel represented in the advertising they see, according to GWI, jumping to 20% for those who follow brands or influencers on social media. To fill this gap, the number of so-called granfluencers is also increasing. ​​These older creators represent a fast-growing demographic of social media users, and thus are starting to catch marketers’ attention. “New opportunities for collaboration across different platform types are emerging,” Yeomans said. “Streaming services are increasingly partnering with influencers, an approach that first attracted younger viewers and is now gaining traction among older audiences.” View the full article

A deal would involve a lot of losers on Tory side, but by next election the party might just be desperate enoughView the full article

There’s a lot of chatter right now about an AI bubble, fueled in part by a perception that productivity gains from AI are largely illusory. I can’t speak to the market, and whether AI is broadly overvalued or undervalued, but I can tell you that in the past year alone, AI has completely transformed how I work. Looking at the tools today that didn’t exist a year ago—deep research, browser agents, the big leaps in performance for all the latest models—there’s a host of ways AI can speed up or enhance many tasks of knowledge workers, especially journalists. As an independent journalist, I’m perhaps a little less constrained than most (my AI policy is whatever I want it to be), and AI has made me rethink how every part of the job gets done. So bubble or not, that shift is already here. To better articulate this and highlight tools and techniques that are broadly useful, I’ve broken down several ways I use AI in my writing, researching, and reporting. The most intuitive way to organize this is by walking through the story process—from developing ideas to hitting publish to sharing on social media. Here are 10 ways I use AI as a journalist and content creator: Beat monitoring: The set of stories that any individual reporter needs to keep up with is different, and AI’s ability to personalize and summarize is extremely helpful here. I find ChatGPT Pulse—which doesn’t just compile stories, but explains why they’re relevant to your work and includes other personal info (like your schedule)—to be extremely helpful, but it’s also constrained to the Pro plan ($200/month). A stripped-down, but still useful tool is scheduled tasks in ChatGPT or Perplexity, where you craft a prompt that searches for the latest stories you’re interested in and sends it to your inbox. Accelerated skimming: Once I land on an article that I’m interested in, I often read the summary before deciding if I want to spend the time reading. There’s a dedicated button for this in Perplexity’s Comet browser, and there are a host of browser extensions that do this for Chrome. On X, I find the ability to simply reply to any post with “@grok what is this post about?” for a short, instant explanation to be a huge time-saver, especially for memes and trends I’m seeing for the first time. Going deeper: When Google’s NotebookLM made its big splash last fall with its ability to create instant conversational podcasts, many dismissed it as a gimmick. But I find the feature to be an incredibly useful tool for getting primed on a topic or news story. You can either drop a single URL in the folder or use the new Fast Research feature to find a story, generate your audio overview, and boom—you have a short podcast all about the thing you’re researching. Listen at 1.5x speed to blaze through it even faster. Story ideas: Finding the connections and missing angles in between stories will always be a mostly human-driven process, but NotebookLM is a good partner here as well. Prompting it to suggest story ideas based on the questions implied or not answered in the set of articles in the notebook is often a great starting point for a story idea. Getting in the weeds: Once I know the idea I’m running with, it’s time to research. AI is obviously great at this, specifically the deep research tools that have emerged in the past year. I use them all, but differently: Perplexity is excellent for a first pass—it’s fast, but typically not as thorough as the others. I generally find Gemini to be the best at finding sources on the web, but less great at prioritizing them. My go-to for serious research is ChatGPT, which I find to be the most thorough. It’s also excellent for turning its deep research abilities inward—directing them at a large set of files in a Google Drive or Dropbox folder (via Connectors). Targeting highly specific information: When the key to your story is a singular document or piece of data, it’s helpful to outsource the task of finding it to a browser agent. For example, court documents are typically kept in hard-to-navigate services like PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records). Just finding the right case often involves performing several searches, especially if you’re unsure of the exact names involved or the specific court. When given clear tasks like this, a browser agent like Comet or ChatGPT Atlas is the perfect research intern, usually finding exactly what you’re looking for in just a few minutes. Writing coach: Now that I’ve gathered and processed all the background material, it’s time to write. For my columns and original reporting, I don’t let AI write for me, but I do often use it as a coach. I’ve crafted a Custom GPT to act as an inquisitive interviewer: probing me with several questions—verbally—recording my long responses, and then assembling them all into an outline once I’m done. From there, I’m off to the races, sometimes returning to the coach when I go in an unexpected direction. The process helps me write in about half the time as before. Writing intern: I write a news digest for my Thursday newsletter, with each item coauthored by AI. For these short blurbs, I’ve built a Claude Project that’s trained on my style, the digest format, and the target audience. Once given a story or news trend, it writes a one-paragraph summary in my style, which I then edit and add to. It turns a 15-minute process into something that takes about five minutes. (And, yes, I’m fully transparent to my audience when AI acts as a coauthor.) Copy desk: Everything I write goes through my AI copy desk: First, a Custom GPT looks at it critically but constructively, suggesting edits (and sometimes further research) to make the piece stronger. Then another GPT does a proofreading pass, aimed at making it either more newsy or conversational, depending on the context. Importantly, neither GPT does automatic rewrites—they’re all suggestions that I can take or leave. Social media manager: Finally, once the piece is live, I have specific prompting that writes social copy for LinkedIn—both for my personal profile and The Media Copilot company page. In this case, I don’t manually paste anything into an assistant on the web, but instead use Zapier, an automation tool that automatically generates the social post and queues it up for my review. That saves a lot of back-and-forth between browser windows and ensures I never miss a post. I hope you see a pattern in what I’ve laid out: Each process involves AI bringing things to my attention, but it prioritizes my attention. In my view, AI is an extraordinary accelerant for specific tasks in story creation, but the process needs human review and judgment throughout. And while AI can be a helpful writing “intern” for very specific formats, I keep the text in anything substantive (such as this column) human written. That human centricity will remain, no matter how intelligent and automated parts of the process get. While I don’t doubt that AI will continue to improve, the point of using it is to sharpen, accelerate, and amplify how I communicate with audiences—human audiences. Machines can be great partners, but the moment they become the focus is when we stop communicating and are just creating “content.” The media just experienced an era dominated by SEO, algorithms, and lowest-common denominator thinking. Let’s not do that again. View the full article

Below, Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic shares five key insights from his new book, Don’t Be Yourself: Why Authenticity Is Overrated (and What to Do Instead). Chamorro-Premuzic is the chief innovation officer at ManpowerGroup, a professor of business psychology at University College London and at Columbia University, cofounder of Deeper Signals, and an associate at Harvard’s Entrepreneurial Finance Lab. What’s the big idea? Authenticity is overrated and can backfire, especially at work. Success comes from strategic self-presentation, empathy, and balancing personal freedom with responsibility to others. Listen to the audio version of this Book Bite—read by Chamorro-Premuzic himself—below, or in the Next Big Idea App. 1. Authenticity isn’t the life hack it’s cracked up to be Authenticity has become one of the most celebrated traits in every single area of life, especially in the workplace. But this trend—despite its well-intentioned beginnings—has not gone according to plan. What was initially supposed to free people from the pressures of conformity in the workplace is backfiring in surprising ways. “Excessive praise of being ‘true to yourself’ can fuel narcissism, extreme individualism, and a disregard for obligations to others.” While research in positive psychology shows that feeling aligned with one’s true self can boost mood and well-being, society’s obsession with authenticity has a darker side. Excessive praise of being “true to yourself” can fuel narcissism, extreme individualism, and a disregard for obligations to others. This cultural phenomenon often harms more than it helps, especially in professional settings. 2. The four traps of authenticity For leaders who want to be competent, effective, and create an inclusive and diverse working culture, it is important to avoid the four authenticity traps. The following mantras seem to propel beneficial behaviors, but can actually hurt objective career success: Always be honest with yourself and others. Most people think of themselves very positively, but decades of research show this self-perception is largely biased and often misaligned with how others see them. Even when we are self-aware, honesty isn’t always what others want. They often prefer encouragement, positive feedback, or polite social interaction over unfiltered truth. Always stay true to your values. Following your values blindly can be dangerous if those values are harmful, destructive, or antisocial. History is full of leaders who acted consistently with their values but caused great harm. Even for ordinary people, rigid adherence to one’s values can prevent self-reflection, fuel polarization, and make “always follow your heart” misleading advice. Don’t worry about what others think. The idea that we shouldn’t worry about how others see us is unrealistic because humans naturally perceive the world through others’ perspectives and rely on social feedback to grow. Ignoring others’ input may preserve a self-image of heroism, but it prevents real development as leaders, colleagues, and human beings. Bring your whole self to work. Our whole self—including the grumpy, impulsive, or self-centered parts—is rarely fully welcomed at work, so telling people it is safe to express themselves is a bit of a trap. Organizations should focus on creating inclusive environments that balance self-expression with being a responsible, collaborative team member, recognizing where personal freedom ends and obligations to others begin. 3. Authenticity can hurt career and leadership outcomes Career and leadership success require strategic self-presentation. Rather than imposing an unedited self on others, people benefit from deliberately managing how they are perceived. This involves understanding the social context, adapting to the needs of others, and making intentional choices about what to share and how to share it. Effective impression management isn’t manipulative; it’s a practical way to achieve real-world goals without compromising integrity. 4. Effective leadership is about managing perception Leadership is less about indulging in self-expression and more about creating value for others. Leaders must distinguish when trustworthiness becomes oversharing, understanding how to manage emotions and communicate effectively rather than engage in inappropriate self-disclosure. “Authenticity without strategic awareness can lead to missteps.” It is crucial that employees receive information in a way that helps them grow. Authenticity without strategic awareness can lead to missteps, whereas thoughtful communication fosters influence, loyalty, and effective collaboration. 5. Authenticity is a rare privilege Complete self-expression is often a luxury of the powerful—a privilege for the elite. Only those with status can impose their unfiltered selves with fewer consequences. But for most people, this approach risks professional and social setbacks. Success comes from balancing authenticity with empathy, collaboration, and awareness of social and organizational norms. Don’t just be yourself. Be strategically, responsibly, and thoughtfully yourself. Enjoy our full library of Book Bites—read by the authors!—in the Next Big Idea App. This article originally appeared in Next Big Idea Club magazine and is reprinted with permission. View the full article