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Metricool has released its 2025 Social Media Report, produced in collaboration with Statista, analyzing over 1 million social media accounts and 21 million posts across eight major platforms. The report identifies key trends shaping the digital landscape, from the growing influence of video content to shifting audience preferences across platforms. LinkedIn and Pinterest Show Strong Growth, TikTok Maintains Lead The report highlights LinkedIn’s rise as an engagement leader, with interactions increasing by 99% year-over-year and a 122% jump in clicks. The platform’s 13.87% engagement rate signals its expansion beyond professional networking, attracting influencers and con…

With the Meta Business Suite (formerly known as Facebook Business Suite), businesses have a simple and efficient way to manage their social media presence. The suite allows users to easily create and manage a business account, Facebook page, analytics tools, and more, all from one platform. In this article, we’ll look at how to best use the new Meta Business Suite to get the most out of your social media presence. Let’s get started! What is Meta Business Suite and How Does it Work? The Meta Business Suite serves as a centralized hub for managing your social media presence on Facebook and Instagram. This platform combines essential tools for social media management, …

Small business loans can be an excellent option for starting or expanding your business. However, with the variety of loan types available, it can be challenging to determine which one suits your needs best. In this article, we will cover some of the most common business loan terminology you should know to make an informed decision. Let’s get started! What is Loan Terminology? Business loan terminology can be confusing for small business owners. Business loan terminology is a set of words and phrases used in the lending and borrowing of money. The most common terms in a business loan agreement are principal, interest, maturity, and amortization. Business Loan Glossary…

Bubble mailers, often referred to as bubble envelopes or padded envelopes, are a form of protective packaging commonly utilized in the shipping industry. These mailers consist of envelopes that are lined with bubble wrap, providing a cushioning effect that protects fragile items during transit. This feature and the mailers’ light weight make them an ideal shipping supply, particularly for small businesses. These businesses often need to maximize usable space in their shipping and storage areas, and the compact size of bubble mailers makes them a great fit for this requirement. Benefits of Bubble Mailers Built-In Cushioning: Bubble mailers feature built-in bubble cushion…

“What is an Airbnb?” many ask. Airbnb is an online platform that allows individuals to rent out spaces ranging from a spare room to an entire home. Coined from “air bed and breakfast,” it was launched in San Francisco. Currently, millions of hosts and guests globally interact through these distinctive accommodations. What Is an Airbnb? Airbnb is a prominent player in the burgeoning sharing economy, where individuals share resources, often facilitated by digital platforms. Instead of booking hotels, travelers can use Airbnb to find accommodations in private homes, apartments, or unique locations offered by hosts around the world. An Airbnb is a listing on this platform.…

The Detroit Pistons and Comerica Bank have announced the launch of SHOP313 Pop-Up Shops presented by Comerica, a program designed to showcase and support 28 Michigan-based small businesses throughout the 2024-25 NBA season. Beginning January 31, participating businesses will receive brand exposure through in-arena promotions at Little Caesars Arena, as well as digital marketing support via the Pistons’ website and social media channels. SHOP313 Pop-Up Shops is an extension of both organizations’ commitment to bolstering Metro Detroit’s small business community. This marks the second consecutive year Comerica and the Pistons have partnered to provide business owners with …

Rocketlane has introduced a new invoicing feature designed to eliminate billing errors, accelerate approvals, and integrate seamlessly with accounting tools like NetSuite and QuickBooks. The update aims to streamline billing processes for professional services teams, reducing manual effort and improving cash flow management. Professional services teams frequently encounter issues with billing accuracy due to manual data reconciliation, lengthy approval cycles, and disconnected financial systems. Rocketlane’s new invoicing capability is designed to resolve these inefficiencies by providing a centralized solution for managing complex billing scenarios. “Too many teams spe…

National holidays can be a fun and timely way to market a business. There are lots of February national days that may be relevant to various businesses. Here’s a look at some things on the calendar this month. Why should you market your business in February? It’s generally beneficial to market a small business all year. But here are some specific reasons to keep your efforts going during February: Pick up during a slow time: Many consumers are still recovering from the holidays and spending lots of time at home during February. They may need an extra push to patronize your business. Stand out among your competition: Since many businesses are slowing down this month, th…

For small businesses, spring means one thing: tax season. That means there’s no better time than the present to start getting the necessary paperwork in order. Whether you’re a one-person show or a larger corporation, there are several key dates to be aware of. Not only will you avoid a last-minute rush, you’ll also avoid possible fees or penalties and ensure your business remains in compliance. Businesses with Employees If you had employees or hired independent contractors in 2024, you are required to provide them with the appropriate federal tax forms. For employees who earned wages in 2024, W2 forms must be distributed by Jan. 31, 2025. For independent contractors w…

You don’t need to spend all day cooped up in an office to run a successful business. In fact, there are many outdoor business ideas that could help you create a successful career while enjoying nature. Here are some options to consider. Best Ideas for Outdoor Businesses If you want to start your own business but don’t want to be chained to a desk, there are plenty of profitable business ideas you can run mainly outside. Here are some of the best outdoor business ideas for you to consider. Gardening and Landscaping Business A landscaping service can be a very lucrative business opportunity that offers various services to potential customers. You may focus mainly on lawn …

The QR in QR code stands for quick response, and the first QR code was invented back in 1994. QR codes are readable barcodes that can store different kinds of information. Email addresses, phone numbers, and website URLs are just a few examples. QR codes are commonly utilized for tracking products in the supply chain, and most smartphones come equipped with built-in QR code readers. By scanning a QR code, you can perform various actions, such as verifying login information, managing online accounts, and facilitating payments. So it’s important for small businesses to ask, “Do QR codes expire?” READ MORE: How to Create a QR Code in 5 Simple Steps What is a QR Code? Go…

A reliable email hosting solution is so important for small businesses, offering more than just storage. It’s the key to secure, efficient communication and access to advanced features. This article will reveal the best 10 email hosting providers, empowering your business with dependable email solutions. Email Hosting: Why It Matters Email hosting serves as the foundation of professional communication for businesses. In contrast to standard web hosting, it focuses exclusively on the management of emails. Choosing the right email host ensures reliable delivery, robust security, and specialized features. This translates to seamless communication and a strong, trustworthy…

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States, allowing U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations temporarily. These occupations typically require specialized knowledge and skills, often in fields such as technology, science, engineering, mathematics, and other related areas. Here, we’ll go over what is an H1B visa and all of the H-1B visa guidelines that small business owners should know before utilizing this option. Understanding the H1B Visa The H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant visa category established by the United States to allow U.S. employers to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. These occupations typically req…

Understanding the cost of goods sold (COGS) is essential for businesses. It plays a significant role in decisions related to inventory, pricing, and more. But what does it really mean? This article explains what COGS is, how to calculate it, and other important information you should be aware of. What is Cost of Goods Sold? Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is a critical financial metric for businesses. It directly reflects the cost of producing the goods or services a company sells. Here is an expanded explanation: Definition: The cost of goods sold (COGS) refers to the direct expenses incurred in the production of goods that a company sells. This encompasses the costs of …

Event organizers are in high demand as more and more people want to celebrate life’s special moments. The planning process for an event can be a challenge, but with careful organization, a good event planning checklist, and a few key event planning tips, you can pull off a spectacular event that your guests will never forget. Amazing Event Planning Tips There’s a lot that goes into event planning. Anything from choosing the right space to arranging food and beverages needs to be considered. Additionally, everything needs to go off without a hitch if your event is to be a success. That being said, you can get caught up in the fine details and stress yourself out if you’r…

Whether you’re a musician looking for more control over the publication of your art or an entrepreneur who enjoys working with talent, you can get any small music business ideas off the ground by starting your own record label. And it’s easier than you might think. Read on for everything you need to start your own independent record label. What is a Record Label? A record label is a brand that represents the music of one or more artists. It conducts the business of music, including signing contracts with and promoting musicians, as well as recording, publishing, and distributing their music in physical and electronic formats. While all of these functions are typically c…

Starting a small business can be exciting and fulfill your entrepreneurial spirit. However, the legal side of things can be daunting for the uninitiated. Don’t fear – there are many ways to get free legal advice for your small business that can help you navigate the complexities of business law. From experienced professionals to online resources, free legal advice is available and tailored to help you get on course with your small business ventures. Let’s dive in! How Can You Legal Advice Free in the US? In the U.S., there are various ways to receive free legal advice or low-cost legal assistance, particularly for issues related to business law, personal law, or other …

Let’s start with a different question… What is cybersecurity? It’s one that a lot of small businesses need to ask today. And the answers need to include information on phishing. What it is, what to do about it, and how it can affect your enterprise if you don’t do anything. What is phishing? Phishing attacks are designed to trick you into giving up sensitive information. Cybercriminals use phishing emails to pose as credible institutions. They want personal details and to steal credit card information, or to install malware on a computer. A targeted attack can include malicious web links to fake websites. A phishing attack is one of the cybersecurity terms you should k…

Kapwing has released a study analyzing the best times to post on TikTok, based on data from 15,000 of the most-viewed videos as of December 2024. The study, which examined engagement patterns across 129 hashtags and 11 content categories, provides insights into when creators should post to maximize visibility on the platform. The study found that mornings consistently yielded the highest engagement rates across most time zones, contradicting the common assumption that evenings are the best time to post. “The general findings that mornings were recommended across almost all time zones is interesting,” Kapwing noted. “We think the assumption is to post later in the day wh…

Poshmark has announced the launch of Smart List AI, an artificial intelligence-driven feature designed to simplify and enhance the resale experience for sellers. Set to debut for iOS users in the U.S. and Canada in February 2025, Smart List AI aims to automate listing creation, reducing the time and effort required to sell items on the platform. Smart List AI allows sellers to generate detailed and compelling listings using a single photo, leveraging AI to optimize descriptions and product details. “The introduction of Smart List AI marks a pivotal step in Poshmark’s journey to develop new and practical opportunities for AI to reimagine the secondhand shopping experienc…

Games can help entrepreneurs hone various skills. For example, some games give you access to resources that you must use wisely — similar to how you must manage resources in business. If you’re looking for a resource management game to sharpen your skills in this area, read on for a guide. What is a Resource Management Game? A resource management game is one where the player is given a finite amount of necessary items that they must allocate wisely. For example, How Resource Management Games Could Help You in Business Resource management games aren’t just for fun. Here are some ways they may support your business: Sharpen management skills: Business owners need to get…

This is the ultimate guide to creating a comprehensive and effective plan to start a business. In today’s dynamic business landscape, having a well-crafted business plan is an important first step to securing funding, attracting partners, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. This guide has been designed to help you create a winning plan that stands out in the ever-evolving marketplace. Using real-world examples and a free downloadable template, it will walk you through each step of the process. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or launching your very first startup, the guide will give you the insights, tools, and confidence you need to create a solid …

When composing professional emails, it’s essential to create a positive impression right from the beginning. This involves dedicating time to developing a well-structured message that is clear, concise, and courteous. Let’s first look at 11 different examples of email greetings based on different situations, followed by some helpful tips and FAQs. Before long, you’ll write emails that help you make the best possible impression from the opening line! Email Greetings Examples The following greetings examples illustrate formal and cold email greetings, follow-up email greetings, and more. Formal Email Greeting Formal email greetings are the most common type. They can be u…

Running a business can be a challenging endeavor, and it requires careful attention to various aspects to ensure success. One critical aspect that often goes overlooked is the cleanliness of the business premises. Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is not only important for the health and well-being of employees and customers, but it also enhances the overall appearance of the business, creating a positive impression. Janitorial supplies are essential items used to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your business premises. They include cleaning products like disinfectants, detergents, and sprays, as well as cleaning tools such as mops, brooms, and vacuum c…