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Google’s AI Overviews now appear on 14% of shopping queries, up 5.6x from 2.1% in November 2025, according to new Visibility Labs analysis. Ecommerce brands have been mostly unaffected by AI-driven click loss in Search. That seems to be changing. Why we care. As Google’s AI Overviews expand across product searches, ecommerce brands face a growing risk of losing visibility and clicks before shoppers reach standard organic or Shopping listings. The details. The analysis targeted product-intent keywords tied to results with a Shopping box, paid or organic — terms like “weighted blanket,” “mushroom coffee,” “protein powder,” and “blue T-shirts.” That produced 20,900,323 shopping keywords. Of those, 2,919,229 triggered an AI Overview — 14.0% penetration. What they’re saying. Report author Jeff Oxford, founder and CEO of Visibility Labs, concluded: “Focusing on AI SEO is no longer a luxury, it’s becoming a necessity. Ecommerce sites need to think beyond traditional SEO and start incorporating AI SEO best practices into their search optimization strategy.” The report. AI Overviews Now Appear on 14% of Shopping Queries, Up 5.6x in 4 Months (Study of 20.9M SERPs) View the full article

Small publishers are seeing sharp traffic declines from AI search experiences, according to new data from thousands of global sites using Chartbeat analytics. The details. Publishers with 1,000 to 10,000 daily pageviews lost 60% of search referral traffic over two years, Chartbeat found. Mid-sized sites with 10,000 to 100,000 daily pageviews lost 47%. Large publishers with more than 100,000 daily pageviews were down 22%. Reality check. AI referrals aren’t replacing lost search traffic. Google Search pageviews fell 34% year over year. Google Discover dropped 15%. ChatGPT referrals rose 200% but still account for less than 1% of total traffic. Yes, but. Traffic is shifting, not disappearing. Total weekly pageviews across publishers fell just 6% from 2024 to 2025, a typical swing tied partly to the news cycle. Search is shrinking as a share of traffic, while direct, internal, and messaging channels are growing. Why we care. SEO has long been the growth engine for smaller sites. That’s no longer true. If you don’t have a strong brand, direct audience relationships, repeat visitors, or differentiated value, you face the biggest risk as search referrals decline. The Axios report. Exclusive: Small publishers hit hardest by search traffic declines. View the full article

Exploration of deal worth tens of billions of dollars reflects struggle of both companies to combat subdued demandView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Robot vacuums are peak if you’re looking to minimize your cleaning routine (who isn’t?). One of the most intriguing models on the market is the Ecovacs Deebot X11 Omnicyclone rcombination obot vacuum and mop, which earned a 2026 CES Innovation Award thanks to its unique 4WD design and built-in debris canister, which sets it apart from competitors and predecessors alike. Right now, the Ecovacs Deebot X11 Omnicyclone is 40% off, bringing it down to an all-time low price of $899 (originally $1,499). Ecovacs Deebot X11 Omnicyclone Robot Vacuum and Mop, $1,499.00 at Amazon Get Deal Get Deal $1,499.00 at Amazon As CNET notes in its review, the four-wheel drive design prevents this vacuum from getting stuck during its runs and allows it to better navigate thresholds between rooms. Its body has a large canister in the middle that collects and compacts debris, an improvement over other self-emptying models that rely on disposable dust bags. It’s equipped with hot-water washing with auto-refill, dry, and self-clean cycles, as well as anti-tangle brushes, which is ideal for pet owners and carpeting. The base station also recharges the battery when it parks itself to wash its mops and drop off dirt, minimizing charging time. The battery, which has a 200-minute runtime, also features fast charging. The unit holds two containers for detergant: one for regular formula and another for heavy-duty cleaner, both sold by Ecovacs. While this might ultimately increase maintenance costs, the ability to automatically switch between cleaners to tackle tougher messes should result in cleaner floors. Suction power is 19,500Pa, and it is equipped with the same boosted large-airflow suction technology that made the vetted Ecovacs X9 perform well in suction tests from PCMag. The 11X Omnicyclone comes with the brand’s signature on-device AI assistant, which adapts to your cleaning preferences over time. It's compatible with Matter, Apple Home, and Google Home smart home systems. Our Best Editor-Vetted Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Sony WH1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00 (List Price $459.99) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $35.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam Plus (2025) — $39.99 (List Price $59.99) Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Player With Remote — $34.99 (List Price $59.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, may be visible in nearly 19 U.S. states tonight, Wednesday, March 18 into Thursday, March 19, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center. The aurora borealis is the result of a geomagnetic storm that occurs when a coronal mass ejection (CME), an eruption of solar material, reaches Earth and causes swaths of green, blue, and purple colors to appear in the dark sky. We are currently seeing increased solar activity as the result of an 11-year sun cycle peak. NOAA says this G2, or moderate geomagnetic storm is partially thanks to Friday’s upcoming spring equinox, or “the equinox effect.” The effect doubles the chance of auroras when Earth tilts its axis, thereby causing the planet’s magnetic field to better align in a way to uptake solar material. Where will the northern lights be visible? According to the NOAA’s map, a total of 19 states are in the line of view for the aurora tonight. Those states are: Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New  Hampshire, North  Dakota, Oregon, South  Dakota, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and northern parts of Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. When is the best time to see the aurora borealis? For the best viewing, the NOAA recommends facing north, in a spot away from light pollution, between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. You can track the aurora on the NOAA’s website, where the agency is providing updates and visibility in real time, with a 30-minute aurora forecast. View the full article

There’s long been debate as to whether coffee is good for you. But this new study suggests that caffeinated coffee, as well as caffeinated tea, could lead to lower incidence of dementia. So if your morning routine involves making a bleary-eyed beeline to the coffee maker immediately upon waking—you may be doing something right. The study comes from researchers at Mass General Brigham and the Broad Institute of Harvard University and MIT, and was recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The teams studied 131,821 individuals from two cohorts: one group of men and one group of women in the U.S., all of whom did not have diseases like dementia, cancer, or Parkinson’s at the start of the study. The researchers followed up with the participants to track their coffee and tea drinking habits every two to four years, with some follow-ups even after 43 years, from the early 1980s to 2023. What the researchers discovered was that moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee and tea may have protective effects on the brain, particularly when it comes to staving off dementia: Of the participants, 11,033 developed dementia over the course of the study. Those who consumed more caffeinated coffee or caffeinated tea had an 18% lower risk of developing dementia when compared with those who did not. The same participants who consumed caffeinated coffee or tea performed better on questionnaire-based cognitive assessments, and experienced lower rates of cognitive decline: 7.8% compared to 9.5% of the non-coffee drinkers. The results did not hold true for participants who drank decaffeinated coffee or tea. This finding is significant, the teams say, because the link between coffee and health effects—particularly caffeinated versus decaffeinated—has been unclear. The benefits also held for people genetically predisposed to dementia. “We also compared people with different genetic predispositions to developing dementia and saw the same results—meaning coffee or caffeine is likely equally beneficial for people with high and low genetic risk of developing dementia,” said lead author Yu Zhang, a PhD student at Harvard Chan School and a research trainee at Mass General Brigham, per Science Daily. So, how much coffee or tea should you drink to support your brain health? According to the research, the biggest protective effects were seen in “moderate” caffeine intake. Those who drank two to three cups of coffee daily, or one to two cups of tea daily, saw the biggest brain benefits. Per previous research, drinking your caffeinated beverage sans cream and sugar offers benefits to your heart and may lengthen your lifespan, too. Dr. Daniel Wang, associate scientist with the Channing Division of Network Medicine in the Mass General Brigham Department of Medicine and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, says the latest results are certainly “encouraging.” But he noted that the “effect size” is still relatively small, and that “there are lots of important ways to protect cognitive function as we age.” “Our study suggests that caffeinated coffee or tea consumption can be one piece of that puzzle,” he said. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. When digital music first started popping off, the vast majority of us didn't care all that much about audio quality. Some of the less, erm, legal methods of downloading music offered horrific quality audio, while even the best options at the same (i.e., iTunes) only supported MP3, a relatively low-quality codec. Times have changed: While most of us still aren't necessarily audiophiles, we do expect high-quality tracks from the streaming services we use—especially if we pay for them. It might not be the "gold standard," but streaming sounds great, even with wireless headphones. But there is a clear ceiling in audio quality for those of us that listen this way. Bluetooth can only support 320 kbit/s, which is good enough for many of us, but does mean you lose details originally there in the mastered track. If you have the right setup, including the right streaming plan, you can listen to your home in higher quality, preserving those details. Spotify might've been late to the game, but it does now support lossless audio for Premium subscribers, which can playback at up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz. With a good pair of wired headphones, you may hear some finer details than you're used to. Now, Spotify is back with another quality booster—at least for a very specific type of subscriber. The feature, called "Exclusive Mode," is meant for Windows listeners to get even more out of their lossless audio playback. (Spotify says a Mac version is in the works.) But while any increase in audio quality sounds like a good deal, you probably won't notice too much of a difference here. How Spotify's "Exclusive Mode" worksAccording to Spotify, Exclusive Mode is meant to achieve "Bit Perfect playback" from your PC. It does so by assigning Spotify as your PC's only source for audio processing. Typically, when listening to Spotify on Windows, you have any number of other apps and services running their audio sources through Windows's audio mixer. That could include notifications from Slack or Teams, Windows alerts, video playback if you click a YouTube link; anything that makes noise on your PC, routes through the same mixer. Spotify says that the music you listen to in its app could be altered before it reaches your DAC (Digital Audio Converter), either because Windows resamples it, changes its volume, or mixes these other sounds in. Exclusive Mode, then, disables all of those other audio sources, so that Spotify's lossless audio is never compromised in that automated mixing. If you're a purest, that might be a welcome change: You'll know that the 24-bit/44.1 kHz audio you're paying for is coming out of your headphones or speakers exactly as it was leaving your Spotify app. You probably won't notice a difference with Spotify's Exclusive ModeThere are some caveats and drawbacks here, however. First, in order to achieve this, Spotify does have to disable all other audio sources on your PC. That means when using Exclusive Mode, you won't actually be able to hear anything else on your computer. You might miss work messages or important Windows alerts if you're not paying attentions to your notifications. If that doesn't matter to you, you can ignore that issue, but it's important to know before you start using Exclusive Mode, well, exclusively. That includes non-music playback in Spotify itself, including music videos, podcasts, previews, and canvas clips. These might also run through Windows' default audio source, and, if so, you'll need to disable Exclusive Mode to use them. Spotify says you don't need a DAC or audio interface for this feature to work, but that it works best with one. A DAC converts a digital signal into an analog one, for outputting to wired headphones or speakers. Spotify says if your PC has a headphone or speaker port, it might have a DAC built in, but you may want to confirm this if you want to listen in the highest possible quality. Otherwise, you'll want to pick up a DAC or audio interface. iFi Audio Go Link Max $79.00 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $79.00 at Amazon Of course, the biggest caveat of all is that even with the perfect setup—a DAC, great wired headphones, Exclusive Mode playing back lossless audio—you might not notice the difference. The higher quality the audio files, the better the music will sound, yes, but as with many media formats, there are diminishing returns in what you notice as you improve your setup. Going from MP3 tracks with a cheap pair of earbuds, to AirPods with 320 kbit/s playback on Spotify is going to be night and day; going from the latter to a wired headphone setup with lossless audio running through a DAC, on the other hand, might be day and slightly sunnier day. If you already have such a setup, and you enjoy listening to your music in the highest possible quality, this is probably a worthwhile setting to try. If nothing else, you can see whether you notice the uptick in quality, and, if you don't, you can disable it, and get the rest of your Windows sounds back. How to enable Exclusive Mode in SpotifyAgain, this feature is currently exclusive to Spotify Premium members on the Windows desktop app. Then, connect your DAC to your computer. (Ignore this if your computer has a DAC.) Now, open Spotify, then head to Settings > Playback > Output. Select your audio device from "Device," then click the toggle next to "Enable exclusive mode for this device." Spotify recommends you head back to Playback settings and turn off the following features while using Exclusive Mode: "Crossfade," "Automix," "Normalize Volume" and "Equalizer." View the full article

A reader writes: I manage two departments, each led by a supervisor — one a married man and the other a single woman. While I work in a separate building, I’ve received numerous reports from my boss, peers, and direct reports regarding their behavior. They are inseparable: taking all breaks together, sharing a single desk, whispering closely, and staying late whenever the other does. The optics have become a significant distraction. Seven different people — including those outside our organization — have commented on the inappropriateness of their closeness, with some making “get a room” jokes. While their deliverables aren’t egregiously late, I often experience delays in email responses or project updates. During these gaps, team members frequently message me to report the duo is “goofing off” or whispering in the break room instead of working. Since I haven’t personally witnessed the behavior and their performance hasn’t hit a “failing” grade yet, I am unsure how to proceed. Should I address the optics and the professional reputation of the departments? Should I wait for a specific performance failure? Or should I ignore it since the evidence is technically hearsay? You’re not a court of law; you get to be concerned by hearsay! There are lots of situations that can come up as a manager where you’ll hear something alarming that you haven’t observed firsthand, and in most of those cases the answer can’t be to do nothing since you didn’t witness it yourself. Depending on the circumstances, sometimes you can arrange things so you’ll have more opportunity to observe the problem yourself. But other times you won’t be able to (or it will be concerning enough that you need to act more quickly than that would allow). In those cases, the right next step is to talk to the people involved and ask about what’s getting reported to you. In this case, I’d recommend a combination of those two approaches. First, can you find a way to observe some of this yourself? You normally work in another building, but can you find reasons to be at the other location more often? When you get messages that these two are goofing off while you’re waiting on overdue work from them, can you just go over there and see it firsthand? That will arm you with some ability to cite what you’ve seen yourself. But if you couldn’t do that — if you worked across the country from them, for example — you could still address this. The way to do that is to talk to them individually and say something like, “If I’d only heard this from one or two people, I wouldn’t bring it up, but I’ve heard it from numerous people at various levels now, so it’s something we need to address. I’m hearing from multiple people that you and Sidney are spending so much time together than it’s become a distraction in the office — including things like sharing a single desk, whispering, and hanging out in the break room together while work is getting delayed. I know I personally have been waiting on responses from you, only to hear that the two of you are socializing in a different part of the building. It’s of course fine to be close to a colleague, but I’m hearing that the optics have become enough of a distraction that unless you’re mystified about what this could be referring to, I need you both to have more professional distance while you’re at work.” Whether or not they’re having an affair is their business, but their behavior at work is yours and that’s the part you can speak to. The post people are gossiping about how close 2 supervisors I manage are appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

US bank told clients that European stocks exposed to private credit had 30 per cent ‘downside risk’View the full article

Kalshi made headlines last month over allowing people to place wagers on the Iran war. Now the prediction market platform is being sued by the state of Arizona, the first state to file criminal charges against the controversial company. The platform, which allows users to place wagers on happenings, such as sports games or even current events, is being accused of operating an illegal gambling business that violates the state’s laws. In a 20-count document, prosecutors alleged that the platform is mischaracterizing itself to avoid being subject to gambling laws and allowing bets on political races. “Kalshi may brand itself as a ‘prediction market,’ but what it’s actually doing is running an illegal gambling operation and taking bets on Arizona elections, both of which violate Arizona law,” state Attorney General Kristin Mayes said in a statement. “No company gets to decide for itself which laws to follow.” While Kalshi, which is overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has faced major scrutiny, it’s currently legal at the federal level because it’s classified as a financial trading platform rather than as a gambling site, but. Essentially, that means that placing bets on sports — which makes up about 90% of the bets on Kalshi — doesn’t qualify as gambling. Prediction market platforms have become wildly popular, especially because they allow users to bet on cultural events, even elections. But some of those bets have been broadly criticized, such as wagers over the Iran war, or when a nuclear bomb would explode. Some betters have been accused of using insider knowledge to place bets on prediction market platforms, too. In February, the Israeli government said it had arrested military reservists for allegedly using a similar platform, Polymarket, in an attempt to profit off classified military operations, such as when the country would launch attacks. When it comes to Kalshi, at least 20 federal suits have been filed against the company. In September 2025, Massachusetts became the first state to sue the company in an attempt to block the platform from operating. Last month, a judge in that case rejected a request by Kalshi to allow it to keep offering sports-events contracts in the state while it appeals an injunction that will disallow it from without a state gaming license. In regard to the new criminal suit, Kalshi is holding its ground on why the platform should remain legal and accessible. “Sadly, a state can file criminal charges on paper thin arguments,” Kalshi said in a statement to CNBC. “States like Arizona want to individually regulate a nationwide financial exchange, and are trying every trick in the book to do it. As other courts have recognized and the CFTC affirms, Kalshi is subject to federal jurisdiction.” If Arizona should win the suit, it could limit Kalshi’s ability to operate nationwide by enabling more state-level restrictions to hit the platform. However, Michael Selig, the chair of the CFTC, said the The President administration supports Kalshi and other prediction market platforms like it. In a post on X, Selig wrote, “This is a jurisdictional dispute and entirely inappropriate as a criminal prosecution,” adding that the CFTC is “watching this closely and evaluating its options.” Fast Company reached out to Kalshi over the suit but did not hear back by the time of publication. View the full article

Whether you love to garden or take pride in an immaculately landscaped space ideal for entertaining (or both), creating and maintaining a beautiful outdoor area for you and your family to enjoy adds immeasurable value to your property and quality of life. If your family includes some beloved pets who also enjoy your outdoor spaces, however, you have to be careful when it comes to the plants you choose for your garden or landscaping. There are a lot of plants that are safe for humans that can poison our furry friends, so being deliberate in your choices when planning out the garden or laying out your landscaping is a must if pets are going to be allowed outside. Here are some pet-safe plants to focus on—and some to avoid at all costs. Note that these lists aren’t comprehensive—you can check the database the ASPCA maintains before you plant anything not mentioned explicitly here. Trees and shrubs that are safe for petsYou might not think trees can harm your pets, but they can—nuts, leaves, and even the bark of some trees can be toxic to dogs and cats. If your landscaping plan involves bringing in some trees and shrubs for shade and privacy, here are some safe choices: Red Maple. These trees are striking additions to any yard with their bright red leaves. They’re dangerous for horses, but safe for dogs and cats. Dogwood. Another beautiful shade tree with white and green flowers, it’s 100% safe for dogs and cats. Magnolias. If your pet is one of those critters that likes to experimentally eat everything it encounters, rest easy: The leaves, flowers, and bark of this pretty, white-pink flowering tree are safe to consume. Serviceberry. Sometimes called Shadbush or Juneberry, these small trees are visually stunning when they flower, and are beneficial to local birds and other wildlife that feed on the berries. Their small size makes them useful for landscaping designs, and they’re perfectly safe for pets—even the berries. Crape Myrtle. These fast-growing plants are kind of in-between a tree and a shrub in terms of size, so they’re often useful for landscaping, and they pose no threat to your pets. Camellias. These colorful shrubs are ideal for creating natural privacy screens, and are safe for your pets. Spiraea. If you love the look of azaleas or rhododendrons in your yard but would prefer to avoid poisoning your pets, spiraeas are an excellent, pet-safe alternative. They look very similar—full, with lots of colorful blossoms. Golden Bells. Perfect for edging and privacy screening, these bright yellow shrubs won’t pose any threat to your furry friends. Some to avoid: Walnut trees, most fruit trees, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Annual plants that are safe for petsIf you like to change up your garden or landscaping each year and rely on annuals for that flexibility, you have a lot of beautiful choices: Impatiens. Colorful and easy to grow, these will bloom all spring and summer. Zinnias. Fast-growing, so a good choice if you’re replacing a toxic flower and need some pink and red in your color scheme. Sunflowers. There are both perennial and annual species of sunflower—and they come in a wide range of colors, so you can really supercharge your outdoor space’s design, attract a lot of pollinators, and never worry about your dog or cat getting sick. Petunias. Technically, these pretty flowers are what’s known as “tender perennials” because they can come back year after year, but usually don’t survive the cold. They’re a great choice for pops of color that won’t harm your pets. Celosias. Colorful and unique, with spiky, tall flowers, these are great for variety and are easy to grow—and perfectly safe for dogs and cats. Some to avoid: Tulips, begonias, lilies, and geraniums. Perennial plants that are safe for petsPerennials can be easier to care for and provide a sense of permanence, which is nice if you really love the garden or outdoor space you’ve created. If that’s you, here are some suggestions for pet-safe perennials: Asters. If you love mums, asters are a great alternative that don’t pose any threat to your animals. They look similar to mums, and come in late in the year to keep your outdoor spaces colorful. Coral Bells. These are great fill-in plants that will make your flower beds look full and vibrant, and they attract pollinators and hummingbirds. Tickseed (aka, Coreopsis). If you like daisies, this traditionally yellow flower (modern variants offer more color choices) is a safer alternative. It’s easy to grow and care for (very drought-tolerant for those of us who continually forget to water), and makes a sparse flower bed feel full. Catmint. Closely related to catnip, this is a great choice if you have an adventurous indoor/outdoor feline. Catnip looks like a weed, but catmint is a gorgeous purple flower your pets can munch on to their heart’s delight (yes, dogs too). Some to avoid: Daisies, mums, creeping jenny, ajuga, peonies, hosta, and lillies. Vegetables and herbs that are safe for petsIf your gardening is more about feeding your family, don’t assume that just because you can eat it, so can your pets. Some safe choices for veggies in your garden include carrots, cucumbers, zucchini, lettuce, spinach, pumpkin (there’s a reason it’s in so many pet foods), peas, sweet potatoes, and broccoli. Some to avoid: Tomatoes, potatoes, onions, hot peppers, eggplant, and green beans. If you’re growing your own herbs to use in your cooking, you can’t go wrong with basil, sage, rosemary, cilantro, dill, or thyme. Some to avoid: Chives, oregano, mint, bay leaf, and tarragon. Ground covers that are safe for petsLandscaping isn’t just about choosing and arranging the big statement plants. You also need ground covers to tie everything together and protect your soil—and ground covers can be toxic to pets as well. Most lawn grasses are safe for pets (cats will sometimes eat lawn grasses to inspire vomiting; while it’s generally a natural and healthy instinct for them, you shouldn’t let them do it too much, so it’s a consideration if you let your cat explore your lawn). Other safe ground covers include moss, snow-in-summer, sedges, hardy iceplant, lamb’s ear, and creeping phlox. What to avoid: Cocoa mulch, asparagus fern, and ivy. View the full article

As the U.S. and Israel’s war against Iran continues to upend energy markets and supply chains worldwide, the The President administration says it will temporarily waive maritime shipping requirements under a more than century-old law known as the Jones Act. The Jones Act requires that goods hauled between U.S. ports be moved on U.S.-flagged vessels. Passed in 1920, this law aims to protect the American shipping sector — but it’s also faced criticism over the years for slowing the delivery of goods, including critical aid during time of crisis. On Wednesday, the White House said that it would suspend Jones Act requirements for 60 days, in a measure that arrives amid wider efforts to counter steep oil prices and cargo disruptions due to the war. The Jones Act is often blamed for making gas, in particular, more expensive. Still, some analysts and industry groups say this waiver will do little to ease consumers’ fuel bills today. Here’s what we know. What is the Jones Act? The Jones Act’s official name is the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. Congress passed the law — sponsored by Sen. Wesley Jones of Washington state — in an effort to rebuild U.S. shipping after German U-boats decimated America’s merchant flee during World War I. Among other things, the Jones Act mandates that ships carrying cargo and passengers between U.S. ports must be built in the United States and owned by Americans — effectively prohibiting foreign-flagged ships from this domestic trade. The vessels are also required to carry U.S. crews. The law can be waived in the “interest of national defense,” the U.S. Maritime Administration notes, either through the Homeland Security or Defense Department. The Jones Act also was intended to ensure that the U.S. had its own merchant fleet in case of war. It’s been strongly supported by some U.S. shipping companies, national security advocates and organized labor. But cutting out foreign competition has also driven up the cost of carrying cargo domestically. U.S.-flagged ships are generally more expensive to both operate and build than foreign ones. And those costs are especially damaging to states and territories that are supplied by sea, such as Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Why is The President waiving Jones Act requirements now? Oil prices have spiked and swung rapidly since the start of the Iran war. Nearly all tanker movement in the key Strait of Hormuzremains at a halt, which has led major oil producers across the Middle East to cut production. Commercial ships — which, beyond fuel, haul cargo from pharmaceuticals to computer chips — have also been stalled at sea or faced attacks themselves. That’s pushing up prices for businesses and consumers worldwide. Brent crude, the international standard, was trading at nearly $109 a barrel on Wednesday, up from roughly $70 before the war began. And U.S. crude is now at about $98 a barrel. U.S. drivers have already seen prices at the pump jump dramatically — with the national average for regular gasoline topping $3.84 a gallon Wednesday, per AAA, up about 86 cents from before the war. All of this has left countries scrambling for more supply and alternative shipping routes. The White House confirmed last week it was looking into suspending Jones Act requirements, which The President called “restrictive.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that the Jones Act waiver would help “mitigate the short-term disruptions to the oil market” during the Iran war and would “allow vital resources like oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and coal to flow freely to U.S. ports.” Meanwhile, the American Maritime Partnership — a coalition that represents vessel owners and operators, unions, equipment yards and vendors — said in a statement that it was “deeply concerned” about the 60-day waiver “being abused and unnecessarily displacing American workers and American companies.” The group, which has been a longtime supporter of the Jones Act, also reiterated that the action would do little to reduce gas prices for consumers. How could suspending Jones Act requirements impact gas prices? A number of factors contribute to prices at the pump. And many note that opening up domestic shipping routes isn’t a sweeping fix. The Center for American Progress estimated last week that waiving the Jones Act would decrease East Coast gas prices by a modest 3 cents, but potentially raising costs on the Gulf Coast. And the move “would also sideline American shipbuilders and workers and allow the oil industry to continue to profit from high prices while reducing transport costs,” the research and policy think tank said Friday. The U.S. is looking for additional ways to boost oil supply. Also on Wednesday, the Treasury Department eased sanctions to allow U.S. companies to do business with Venezuela’s state-owned oil and gas company. And the The President administration has announced it will temporarily free up Russian oil from U.S. sanctions, too. Last week, the International Energy Agency also pledged to release 400 million barrels of oil available from its member nations’ stockpiles, the largest volume of emergency oil pulled in the organization’s history. The President, who previously downplayed the need to tap into reserve oil, confirmed that the U.S. would pull 172 million barrels from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve over 120 days as part of the IEA’s effort. Still, analysts maintain this will be a short-term bridge. Refineries also buy crude oil in advance, and it takes time for new supply to trickle down to consumers. And, of course, it’s possible the pain of higher prices could increase further if the war drags on. The U.S. is a net exporter of oil, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to global spikes. Oil is a commodity traded globally. And most of what the U.S. produces is light, sweet crude, but refineries on the East and West coasts are primarily designed to process heavier, sour product. As a result, it also needs imports. —Wyatte Grantham-Philips, AP business writer AP Writers Seung Min Kim, Paul Wiseman, and Collin Binkley in Washington contributed to this report. View the full article

Talent acquisition is more than just filling open positions; it’s about strategically identifying and attracting the right talent to support your organization’s goals. Comprehending this distinction is essential, as effective recruitment involves more than traditional methods. By developing a solid talent acquisition strategy, leveraging data analytics, and enhancing candidate experiences, you can build a strong workforce. What specific steps can your organization take to improve its talent acquisition efforts and create a sustainable talent pipeline? Key Takeaways Talent acquisition is a strategic approach to building a skilled workforce through proactive planning and relationship-building with potential candidates. Effective recruitment aligns with organizational goals, focusing on both employer branding and candidate experience to attract top talent. Utilize technology, such as Applicant Tracking Systems and data analytics, to streamline processes and enhance engagement throughout the hiring journey. Foster collaboration between talent acquisition teams and hiring managers to clearly define job requirements and improve candidate selection. Regularly analyze recruitment metrics to identify trends, optimize strategies, and ensure diversity and inclusion in the hiring process. Definition of Talent Acquisition Talent acquisition is a strategic approach that organizations use to build a strong workforce. It focuses on identifying, attracting, and hiring skilled candidates who not only meet job requirements but also fit well with the company culture. So, what’s a talent acquisition? It’s a long-term strategy that involves developing a robust candidate pipeline, actively engaging with potential hires, and leveraging employer branding to make your organization appealing. Unlike traditional recruitment, which often aims to fill immediate vacancies, a talent acquisition strategy emphasizes proactive planning and relationship-building. A talent acquisition partner can play an essential role in this process, helping you implement effective strategies to attract top talent. Moreover, talent acquisition encompasses onboarding new employees and evaluating the effectiveness of your strategies to improve future recruitment efforts. By adopting this approach, you can lower turnover rates, boost productivity, and improve overall employee satisfaction. Importance of Talent Acquisition While many organizations focus solely on filling immediate job vacancies, understanding the significance of a strategic talent acquisition approach can yield substantial long-term benefits. By implementing effective talent acquisition strategies, you can lower employee turnover rates, saving costs associated with hiring and training new staff. Prioritizing talent acquisition leads to higher productivity levels, as companies that focus on this aspect often see improved overall performance. Moreover, a strong talent acquisition strategy allows you to attract both active and passive candidates, ensuring a robust talent pipeline that meets current and future staffing needs. A well-executed process improves employee engagement and satisfaction by aligning candidates with your organizational culture. Conversely, businesses lacking this strategic approach struggle to market themselves effectively, making it challenging to attract top talent in a competitive labor market. Recognizing the significance of talent acquisition is vital for your organization’s sustained success. Talent Acquisition vs. Recruitment Comprehending the difference between talent acquisition and recruitment is crucial for any organization aiming to improve its workforce strategy. Talent acquisition is a long-term approach focused on building a talent pipeline, whereas recruitment is more reactive, filling immediate job vacancies. Here’s a comparison to clarify: Feature Talent Acquisition Recruitment Focus Long-term strategy Short-term hiring needs Activities Employer branding, candidate management Selection and hiring Candidate Engagement Active and passive candidates Only active job seekers Planning Proactive for future needs Reactive to current openings Outcome Better talent attraction and retention Immediate filling of positions Building a Talent Acquisition Strategy Building a successful talent acquisition strategy is vital for any organization seeking to align its workforce with long-term business goals. Start by defining a strong employer value proposition (EVP) that highlights what makes your company unique and attractive to potential candidates. This will help draw in the right talent. Utilize data analytics to identify which sourcing channels yield the best results, enhancing your recruitment processes and reducing time-to-fill for open positions. Proactively plan your resources to create a diverse talent pipeline, ensuring you’re prepared to meet both current and future staffing needs. Collaboration between your talent acquisition team and hiring managers is fundamental; together, you can develop targeted recruitment strategies that promote positive candidate experiences and improve hiring outcomes. The Talent Acquisition Process A well-defined talent acquisition process is fundamental to transforming your recruitment strategy into actionable steps that attract and retain top talent. It starts with lead generation, where you source candidates through various channels to build a diverse talent pool. Engaging with candidates is vital; promote your company’s benefits and culture to encourage genuine interest in your job openings. Next, during the interview and assessment stage, develop targeted questions that evaluate candidates based on key performance indicators (KPIs) and cultural fit that are significant. Don’t overlook the importance of evaluating references, as this helps uncover potential concerns and provides insights into candidates’ past performance and behavior. Finally, centralize feedback from interviewers to rank candidates, ensuring you select the best fit for the role. This structured approach not merely streamlines your hiring process but also promotes a smooth onboarding experience for your new hires. Effective Talent Acquisition Practices To effectively acquire talent, you need to align your recruitment strategies with your organization’s overall goals and values. Building strong teams starts with a clear comprehension of what you seek in candidates, leveraging technology to streamline your processes and improve engagement. Aligning Recruitment Strategies Effective recruitment strategies are vital for organizations seeking to attract and retain top talent. By aligning recruitment strategies across departments, you create a unified approach that targets the right candidates during enhancing the overall candidate experience. Collaborating with hiring managers helps you understand specific role requirements, integrating key skills into job descriptions. Analyzing the talent funnel at each stage reveals strengths and weaknesses in your recruitment process, enabling continuous improvement. Measuring recruitment channel effectiveness through key metrics allows you to focus efforts on the most productive sources. Furthermore, refining outreach campaigns based on candidate engagement data boosts response rates and improves applicant quality. Metric Description Importance Time-to-Fill Duration to fill a position Efficiency in recruitment Candidate Quality Evaluation of applicants’ skills Guarantees fit for the role Source Effectiveness Performance of recruitment channels Optimizes resource allocation Engagement Rate Response to outreach efforts Indicates candidate interest Building Strong Teams Building strong teams starts with effective talent acquisition practices that align with your organization’s goals and values. To attract top candidates, create a compelling employer value proposition (EVP) that showcases your unique culture, career pathways, and compensation transparency. Engaging candidates throughout the hiring process is essential, so provide personalized communication and timely feedback to improve their experience. Consider implementing internal mobility initiatives like rotational assignments, which can develop existing talent and motivate your workforce. Furthermore, regularly analyze recruiting metrics to identify bottlenecks within your hiring process. This data-driven approach allows you to refine sourcing strategies, ensuring that you not only hire the right candidates but also cultivate a collaborative and high-performing team. Utilizing Technology Efficiently In today’s competitive job market, leveraging technology efficiently can transform your talent acquisition process into a streamlined and effective operation. Here are four key practices to contemplate: Implement talent acquisition software to centralize candidate data, automate repetitive tasks, and improve your talent pipeline. Use AI-driven tools to reduce bias in recruitment, providing transparency through diversity metrics and data-driven insights. Utilize analytics to track key recruiting metrics, identify bottlenecks, and refine your sourcing strategies for peak efficiency. Engage with candidates through personalized communication and timely feedback, enhancing their experience and positively impacting your employer brand. Talent Acquisition Analytics As organizations endeavor to improve their hiring strategies, talent acquisition analytics has emerged as a crucial tool in the recruitment process. By utilizing data to track key metrics like time-to-fill, quality of hire, and candidate conversion rates, you can identify trends that augment hiring efficiency. Implementing analytics tools allows you to uncover bottlenecks in your recruitment pipeline, enabling timely adjustments to sourcing and engagement strategies. Moreover, analyzing candidate demographics and hiring outcomes helps assess the effectiveness of diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring you’re making data-driven decisions. Regularly reviewing recruitment analytics leads to optimized job descriptions and targeted sourcing strategies, improving the quality of candidates attracted to your open positions. Utilizing predictive analytics also empowers you to forecast future hiring needs and skill gaps, allowing for proactive talent planning aligned with your business objectives. Embracing these analytics can notably transform your recruitment efforts. Talent Acquisition Team Roles As the talent acquisition team plays a pivotal role in shaping an organization’s workforce, comprehending the distinct responsibilities of each member is vital for effective recruitment. Each role contributes uniquely to the recruitment process, ensuring a streamlined approach from sourcing candidates to onboarding. Recruiters: They manage the recruitment process, from posting job openings to conducting interviews, ensuring candidates align with the organization’s goals. Talent Sourcers: These specialists focus on identifying and engaging potential candidates, both active and passive, to build a strong candidate pipeline. Hiring Managers: They collaborate closely with the talent acquisition team to define job requirements and select candidates who fit the team dynamics and culture. Talent Acquisition Specialists: They concentrate on maintaining relationships with candidates and utilizing technology to improve the recruitment strategy. Effective collaboration among these roles is fundamental for optimizing candidate engagement and advancing overall hiring outcomes. Current Trends in Talent Acquisition In today’s talent acquisition environment, adapting to remote work has become vital for attracting top candidates. Employers are likewise placing a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring their hiring processes are fair and accessible to all. Remote Work Adaptation Remote work adaptation has become essential in today’s talent acquisition environment, especially given the 47% increase in job postings for remote positions. To effectively recruit in this new environment, consider these key strategies: Leverage Technology: Utilize virtual interviews, as 78% of organizations are doing, to streamline the assessment process. Highlight Flexibility: Emphasize remote work options in your employer branding since 75% of job seekers prioritize them. Expand Talent Pool: Embrace remote work to increase applications by 20%, allowing access to candidates beyond geographical limits. Implement Flexible Arrangements: Companies offering flexible work see a 30% reduction in turnover, enhancing employee retention. Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives How important is it to prioritize diversity and inclusion in today’s talent acquisition environment? Emphasizing diversity not only improves team performance—diverse teams are 35% more likely to excel—but additionally reduces turnover rates by 25%, saving costs in recruitment and training. In addition, 70% of job seekers consider a company’s commitment to diversity when evaluating job offers, making effective diversity branding essential for attracting top talent. Implementing structured interviews and standardized evaluations can help minimize biases, ensuring a fair assessment of candidates from various backgrounds. Furthermore, companies with diverse leadership teams experience 19% higher revenue, thanks to improved innovation and decision-making. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, you position your organization for greater success and a more dynamic workforce. Technology in Talent Acquisition As organizations endeavor to improve their recruitment processes, technology plays a pivotal role in transforming talent acquisition. Leveraging the right tools can streamline various aspects of recruitment, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. Here are four key ways technology impacts talent acquisition: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): These systems utilize AI-driven features to automate resume parsing and candidate rediscovery, reducing administrative burdens. Automated Workflows: By implementing automated processes, you can notably lower time-to-hire, allowing recruiters to focus more on relationship-building with candidates. Data Analytics: Tools like Findem’s Talent Data Cloud provide valuable insights, helping you close talent gaps faster and refine hiring strategies. Candidate Relationship Management: These solutions enable you to nurture talent pipelines, improving engagement with both active and passive candidates. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Recruitment? The 5 C’s of recruitment are vital for evaluating candidates effectively. Character assesses integrity and ethics, ensuring a positive workplace. Capability looks at skills and qualifications, confirming candidates can perform the job well. Compatibility examines how well candidates fit within team dynamics and with the hiring manager, which affects performance. Culture checks whether candidates align with the organization’s values, fundamental for long-term satisfaction. Finally, compensation evaluates if the offered salary meets expectations. What Is Talent Acquisition and How to Do It? Talent acquisition’s all about proactively finding and onboarding the right candidates for your organization’s future needs. To achieve this, you need a structured approach that includes stages like lead generation, candidate attraction, and assessment. Using technology, such as Jobvite tracking systems, can streamline your process. You should likewise focus on building a strong employer brand to attract quality candidates. Regularly analyzing recruitment metrics helps refine your strategies for better hiring outcomes. What Is the 70 Rule of Hiring? The 70 Rule of Hiring suggests you should expect candidates to meet only about 70% of job qualifications. This approach encourages you to focus on core competencies and cultural fit instead of strict adherence to every requirement. By doing so, you expand your talent pool, increasing the chances of finding candidates with transferable skills. This method can likewise improve employee retention, as individuals feel valued for their potential and adaptability. What Are the 7 Steps of the Recruitment Process? The recruitment process involves seven key steps. First, you conduct a job analysis and create a job description. Next, you source candidates through various channels. After gathering applications, you screen resumes to shortlist qualified individuals. Then, you interview candidates, evaluating their skills and cultural fit. Following interviews, you check references. Finally, you extend a job offer to the chosen candidate and facilitate their onboarding to guarantee a smooth changeover into the organization. Conclusion In conclusion, effective talent acquisition goes beyond traditional recruitment by focusing on strategic planning and data-driven decisions. By comprehending the nuances of talent acquisition and implementing a well-structured process, organizations can attract and retain skilled candidates who align with their goals. Emphasizing collaboration, technology, and candidate experience will elevate your talent pipeline, ensuring that your workforce is not merely capable but also prepared for future challenges. Prioritizing these elements will greatly improve your hiring outcomes. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Is Talent Acquisition and How to Recruit Effectively?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google is cleaning up outdated requirements in Google Ads, reflecting how legacy ad formats have evolved into newer, more automated products. What’s happening. As of March 17th, Google discontinued multiple ad format policies, including those related to form ads, image quality, responsive ads, and text ads. What changed. These requirements are being removed because the original formats have transitioned into newer campaign types and ad experiences, making the old policy frameworks no longer relevant. Why we care. This update simplifies the policy landscape in Google Ads, reducing confusion around outdated requirements tied to legacy formats. What advertisers should do. Advertisers are now expected to rely on current Google Ads policies and ad format requirements, which govern newer formats like automated and AI-driven campaigns. The bottom line. By removing legacy requirements, Google is streamlining policies in Google Ads — signalling a continued move toward fewer, more unified standards for modern ad formats. View the full article

Investors have trimmed bets on US monetary policy easing this year as surging energy prices risk jump in inflationView the full article

President Donald The President first ran on a campaign to “make America great again.” Whether he’s been successful in doing so (or if America was ever great to begin with) is hotly contested—but even as the work continues on our home planet, one NASA leader is encouraging The President to set his sights even further. Newly appointed NASA administrator Jared Isaacman said he thinks Pluto should regain the planetary status that it controversially lost 20 years ago. “I 100% support President The President making Pluto great again,” Isaacman told Daily Mail in a new interview. Isaacman cited Pluto’s discovery by Clyde Tombaugh, the farmboy-turned-astronomer who first spotted Pluto from a Kansas observatory in 1930, as one reason it ought to be recognized as a planet. “I think we owe it to everyone from Kansas and all their great contributions to astronomy and aerospace to rightfully restore that discovery to a planet,” Isaacman said. When Pluto got demoted Pluto may have been discovered by an American, but that doesn’t mean President The President controls its planetary status. That power falls to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), which decided two decades ago that Pluto doesn’t meet the criteria to be a planet. It may orbit the Sun and be large enough to form a nearly round shape—two of the three qualifications for planetary status, according to NASA—but it “has not been able to clear its orbit of debris,” the IAU’s 2006 resolution stated. As such, the IAU declared Pluto a dwarf planet instead. The push to be a planet Folks have been fighting to reverse Pluto’s demotion from the moment it was decided. That fervor has reached a fever pitch under The President, with both celebrities and government officials weighing in. In 2025, Star Trek actor William Shatner decried the IAU’s authority over space and asked for Elon Musk’s help in getting The President’s attention: “We should ask Elon to get the President to sign one of those Executive thingies to make Pluto a planet again,” he posted on X, to which Musk replied, “I’d support that.” On the political side, Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) asked The President to “Make Pluto Planetary Again” in a post of his own last February. Even Isaacman’s predecessor Jim Bridenstine, the NASA administrator during The President’s first administration, said at a 2019 press event that “Pluto is a planet, and you can write that the NASA administrator declared Pluto a planet once again.” The President himself has yet to address the demands to “make Pluto great again”—though judging from his track record of renaming things he has no claim over (does anyone actually call it the Gulf of America?), it wouldn’t be surprising if he tried to exert power over Pluto. Isaacman’s rocky history with The President Though Isaacman only became the administrator of NASA in December of 2025, he was first nominated for the position by The President a year prior in December 2024, when The President was still only the president-elect. Though Isaacman passed a Senate Committee vote in April of 2025, his nomination was rescinded by the White House a month later, just a week before he was set to be confirmed by the full Senate. “After a thorough review of prior associations, I am hereby withdrawing the nomination of Jared Isaacman to head NASA,” The President posted on social media at the time, referring to Isaacman’s previous donations to Democratic politicians. But The President changed his mind about Isaacman yet again that November, when he nominated Isaacman for the position a second time. The President’s reasoning for the switch-up isn’t totally clear: He and then-acting NASA administrator Sean Duffy reportedly met with Isaacman in the months leading up to the nomination. On the day of Isaacman’s swearing-in, The President issued a sweeping executive order, which included plans to put astronauts back on the moon by 2028 and to begin progress on a permanent lunar base by 2030. View the full article

The rising cost of health care has long been a thorn in the side of small business owners across America. Recognizing this challenge, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has unveiled a comprehensive Legislative Health Care Plan aimed at easing these financial pressures. By advocating for several targeted policy reforms, NFIB aims to empower small businesses to provide health benefits without breaking the bank. Tyler Dever, NFIB Principal of Federal Government Relations, underscored the urgency of the situation. “For over 40 years, small business owners have shared how the cost of health care is their number one problem,” he said. He emphasized how important health insurance is for attracting and retaining talent, yet noted the burdens inherent in the current U.S. health care system. The NFIB stresses that Congress should examine and implement these reforms not only to improve affordability but also to enhance flexibility and options for both employers and employees. The NFIB’s plan offers ten concrete proposals for legislative consideration, each designed to tackle specific pain points regarding health care costs: CHOICE Arrangements: Small businesses could customize their health plans through health reimbursement arrangements, allowing for tailored benefits that meet their employees’ diverse needs. Association Health Plans (AHPs): By pooling resources and leveraging collective purchasing power, small businesses could obtain better health insurance rates, similar to larger corporations. Longer STLDI Availability: Extending the availability of Short-Term, Limited-Duration Insurance plans could help small businesses offer more flexible insurance options. Health Savings Account (HSA) Expansion: Broader access to HSAs would give employees greater control over their health care spending. Elimination of Mandates: NFIB calls for an end to one-size-fits-all mandates that increase costs and reduce options for small businesses. Site-Neutral Payments: Implementing this could help stem the tide of hospital consolidation, thus countering rising costs. Ban Spread Pricing: Enhancing transparency from Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) could prevent unnecessary markups on medications. Interstate Health Insurance Sales: Allowing insurance purchases across state lines would expand options and foster competition. Stop-Loss Insurance Access: Maintaining access to stop-loss insurance is crucial for small businesses to safeguard against high medical costs. Price Transparency: Increasing hospital price transparency would allow patients to make informed decisions before undergoing procedures, potentially lowering costs. These proposals seek to create an environment where small businesses can thrive while still providing essential health care benefits. For many small business owners, particularly those struggling with health care costs, the implementation of these reforms could be a lifeline. However, the road to reform is not without potential challenges. Congressional approval remains uncertain, and the legislative landscape can be slow-moving and unpredictable. Small business owners may also be concerned about the complexity of adjusting to new regulations and guidelines if some proposals are enacted. Additionally, while customization of health plans is appealing, it may require a greater administrative aspect that some small businesses may not be prepared to handle. As the NFIB pushes for these reforms, small business owners should stay informed and engaged in the process. Understanding the implications of these proposals can empower them to advocate for their own health care needs and engage with their representatives more effectively. The NFIB’s initiative signals a commitment to addressing one of the most pressing concerns facing small businesses today. By calling on Congress to act, the organization aims to ensure that small business owners can continue to offer valuable health benefits without the accompanying financial strife. For more detailed information regarding the NFIB Legislative Health Care Plan, you can view the full proposal here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "NFIB Unveils Health Care Plan to Tackle Rising Costs for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Construction projects move fast, cost plans shift constantly and small cost mistakes can quickly turn into major overruns. A quantity surveyor plays a central role in keeping financial control across the entire project lifecycle. From early estimates to final accounts, understanding how this role works helps teams plan better, spend smarter and avoid costly surprises. What Is a Quantity Surveyor? A quantity surveyor is a construction professional responsible for managing project costs, contracts and financial performance from planning through completion. They estimate costs, prepare cost plans, track expenses and ensure work stays within financial limits. By coordinating with contractors, suppliers and project managers, they help control spending, reduce risk and maintain profitability throughout the construction project lifecycle. ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software that gives construction companies tools to ensure projects are completed on time, within the cost plan and within scope. It allows project managers to create detailed construction programmes, estimate costs, allocate resources, set cost plans, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/critical-path-light-mode-gantt-construction-CTA.pngLearn more What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do? Every construction project needs someone focused on keeping costs aligned with the plan while work progresses on-site. The main purpose of a quantity surveyor is to protect the cost plan, ensure financial efficiency and prevent cost overruns. They act as the bridge between technical execution and financial control, helping teams make informed decisions so the project can be delivered on time, within the cost plan and according to contractual expectations. Prepare detailed cost estimates based on drawings, specifications and project scope requirements. Develop and maintain a project cost plan aligned with the construction programme and resources. Analyze tenders and support the tendering process to select cost-effective proposals. Monitor project costs in real time to identify variances and prevent cost overruns. Manage procurement processes, including pricing materials, subcontractor selection and contract negotiation. Review and certify interim valuations submitted by contractors based on completed work. Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize costs without reducing project quality or performance. Prepare cost reports and financial forecasts to support decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. Handle contract administration tasks, including claims, variation orders and dispute resolution processes. Perform final account settlement by reconciling all project costs and closing financial records accurately. Quantity Surveyor Job Description Examples To understand how this role works in practice, it helps to look at real-life quantity surveyor job description examples that reflect how construction companies actually hire, structure and define responsibilities across different experience levels. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Job Description An assistant quantity surveyor supports cost planning, procurement and contract administration on construction projects. They help prepare cost plans, analyse tenders, track project costs and assist with valuations while working under senior surveyors to build practical experience in commercial management and project financial control. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Job Summary At the early stages of a construction career, professionals step into this role to support cost planning, budgeting and contract administration activities. An assistant quantity surveyor works closely with senior team members, helping manage project costs, track expenses and contribute to procurement and reporting tasks while gaining hands-on experience across the project lifecycle. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Key Responsibilities Assist in preparing detailed cost estimates for materials, labor and equipment based on project drawings and specifications. Support the development and monitoring of project cost plans to ensure alignment with cost constraints and financial targets. Help create and manage tender documents, including bills of quantities and pricing schedules for procurement processes. Track actual project expenses and report cost variations or discrepancies to senior quantity surveyors. Assist with contract administration tasks such as handling variations, claims and supporting dispute resolution processes. Prepare regular financial reports, including cost forecasts and cash flow projections for ongoing projects. Conduct basic cost analysis and research pricing data for labor, materials and equipment to support decision-making. Collaborate with project managers, engineers and contractors to ensure financial alignment with project scope and timeline. Assist in value engineering efforts by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality standards. Maintain accurate project documentation, including cost records, contracts and procurement data for audit and reporting purposes. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or diploma in quantity surveying, construction management or a related field. Basic understanding of construction processes, building systems and project delivery methods. Knowledge of cost estimation, cost planning and construction documentation principles. Familiarity with contracts, procurement methods and standard construction practices. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Required Skills Strong numerical and analytical skills to support accurate cost estimation and financial tracking. Attention to detail when reviewing drawings, quantities and cost breakdowns. Effective communication skills to coordinate with project teams and stakeholders. Ability to use quantity surveying software, spreadsheets and cost management tools. Time management skills to handle multiple tasks across different project phases. Problem-solving mindset to identify cost issues and support corrective actions. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Preferred Experience One to two years of experience in construction, cost consulting or a related field. Experience working on residential, commercial or infrastructure construction projects. Exposure to tendering processes, contract administration or procurement workflows. Familiarity with BIM tools, quantity takeoff software or construction cost databases. Internship or apprenticeship experience supporting project cost management activities. Senior Quantity Surveyor Job Description A senior quantity surveyor leads cost management and commercial strategy across construction projects. They oversee cost planning, manage contracts, certify valuations, negotiate variations and monitor financial performance. With full accountability for the cost plan, they ensure projects remain commercially viable while guiding teams and supporting key stakeholder decisions. Senior Quantity Surveyor Job Summary With full ownership of project finances, this role sits at the center of commercial decision-making on construction projects. A senior quantity surveyor leads cost control, contract management and financial reporting activities while overseeing multiple projects or large work packages. Beyond execution, they guide strategy, manage client relationships and ensure projects remain commercially viable from pre-construction through final account settlement. Senior Quantity Surveyor Key Responsibilities Lead cost planning, budgeting and financial control across multiple construction projects or major work packages. Prepare and review bills of quantities, cost estimates and tender documents for complex developments. Verify contractor payment applications, certify valuations and manage final account negotiations with stakeholders. Oversee change management processes, including evaluating variations, claims and contractual adjustments. Monitor project cash flow, cost forecasts and financial performance against approved cost plans. Manage subcontractor procurement, contract negotiations and commercial agreements throughout the project lifecycle. Coordinate with project managers, engineers and clients to align financial outcomes with project scope and timeline. Conduct value engineering and cost optimization strategies to improve project profitability and efficiency. Supervise and mentor junior and assistant quantity surveyors, reviewing work and ensuring quality standards. Maintain detailed financial records, reports and documentation to support audits and commercial decision-making. Senior Quantity Surveyor Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, construction management, civil engineering or a related discipline. Professional certification such as RICS, CIOB or equivalent is often required or strongly preferred. Strong understanding of construction contracts, procurement strategies and cost management principles. Advanced knowledge of project financial management across pre-construction and execution phases. Senior Quantity Surveyor Required Skills Advanced analytical skills to interpret complex cost data and financial reports accurately. Strong negotiation skills for managing contracts, subcontractors and client commercial discussions. Leadership and team management abilities to guide junior staff and coordinate cross-functional teams. Proficiency in cost management software, estimation tools and advanced spreadsheet modeling. Clear communication skills to present financial insights to stakeholders and senior management. Commercial awareness to balance cost, risk and project performance effectively. Senior Quantity Surveyor Preferred Experience Five to ten years of experience in quantity surveying within construction or infrastructure projects. Experience managing large-scale or high-value projects with full cost and contract responsibility. Proven track record of handling contract negotiations, claims management and dispute resolution. Experience supervising junior staff and leading commercial teams on active construction projects. Background in sectors such as residential development, civil engineering or industrial construction. Quantity Surveyor Salary Ranges To understand how compensation compares across the industry, it’s useful to look at salary data from well-known UK-based salary analysis platforms. These sources compile real job postings, employer data and employee-reported earnings to show how pay varies by experience level. Assistant Quantity Surveyor Salary Range Glassdoor: According to Glassdoor the salary of an assistant quantity surveyor goes from £30,000 to £45,000 based on entry-level data and reported ranges. Indeed: According to Indeed the salary of an assistant quantity surveyor typically ranges from £28,000 to £40,000 depending on location and experience. Totaljobs: According to Totaljobs the salary of an assistant quantity surveyor goes from £25,000 to £38,000 across the UK market. Payscale: According to Payscale the salary of an assistant quantity surveyor goes from £24,000 to £42,000 depending on skills and employer. Reed: According to Reed the salary of an assistant quantity surveyor goes from £26,000 to £40,000 across various UK regions. Quantity Surveyor Salary Range Indeed: According to Indeed the salary of a quantity surveyor goes from £35,000 to £65,000 depending on experience and region. Glassdoor: According to Glassdoor the salary of a quantity surveyor goes from £35,000 to £53,000 in typical base pay ranges. Reed: According to Reed the salary of a quantity surveyor goes from £40,000 to £70,000 depending on role and specialization. Totaljobs: According to Totaljobs the salary of a quantity surveyor goes from £38,000 to £68,000 across the UK job market. Glassdoor (London): According to Glassdoor the salary of a quantity surveyor goes from £40,000 to £61,000 in London. Senior Quantity Surveyor Salary Range Indeed: According to Indeed the salary of a senior quantity surveyor goes from £60,000 to £90,000 depending on project size and experience. Glassdoor: According to Glassdoor the salary of a senior quantity surveyor goes from £44,000 to £69,000 in London. Reed: According to Reed the salary of a senior quantity surveyor goes from £65,000 to £95,000 across UK industries. Totaljobs: According to Totaljobs the salary of a senior quantity surveyor goes from £60,000 to £85,000 depending on employer and location. Payscale: According to Payscale the salary of a senior quantity surveyor goes from £50,000 to £90,000 based on experience and specialization. Free Related Construction Project Management Templates We’ve created dozens of free construction project management templates for Excel, Word and Google Sheets. Here are some of them. Bill of Quantities Template This bill of quantities template helps organise materials and labour with item numbers, descriptions, units, quantities and rates, automatically calculating total costs to support accurate pricing, cost planning and tender submissions. Snagging List Template This snagging list template helps teams record defects, assign responsibility, track status and verify rectification using structured fields for location, trade, priority and deadlines to support efficient project closeout. ProjectManager Is an Award-Winning Construction Project Management Software ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software built to support projects from preconstruction through closeout. It includes a robust set of features such as Gantt charts, timesheets, workload management charts and real-time dashboards and reports. The platform also offers unlimited cloud-based document storage and AI-driven project insights that help teams manage construction documents and track project activities. Watch the video below to see how it works. Related UK Construction Project Management Content Program of Works in Construction: A Quick Guide How to Make a Schedule of Rates for a Construction Project Cost Value Reconciliation: How to Make a CVR Report How to Make a Construction Phase Plan (Templates Included) Variation Order in Construction: A Quick Guide Snagging Inspection: Making a Snagging List Tendering Process in Construction: A Quick Guide Construction Cost Planning: How to Make a Cost Plan Dayworks In Construction: A Quick Guide ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Quantity Surveyor: Job Description Examples and Salary Ranges appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

As the job market tightens, LinkedIn has become the battleground for anyone trying to stand out. This corner of the internet has its own vernacular—where even a marriage proposal can be a lesson on B2B sales—and now a new tool has arrived to help LinkedIn visitors and would-be thought leaders speak the language. Launched by the Palo Alto-based search engine company Kagi, the translator tool, visually similar to Google Translate, offers a feature to translate any phrase or sentence into what it’s calling “LinkedIn Speak.” For instance, when I inputted the phrase “I’m writing a story about this translator for Fast Company,” the platform blurted out corporate-sounding prose filled with LinkedIn jargon. And yes, it even threw some emojis and hashtags into the mix: “🚀 Thrilled to share that I’m currently crafting a deep-dive feature for Fast Company on the future of translation technology! ✍️✨ It’s been an incredible journey exploring how this game-changing translator is redefining global communication. Stay tuned for more insights on how we’re breaking down barriers in the digital age! 🌍📈 #Innovation #TechTrends #FastCompany #TranslationTech #GlobalBusiness #Storytelling,” the translator wrote.” Anyone scrolling on LinkedIn has seen its posts just like this, with users sharing in-depth announcements or analyses of the seemingly mundane, often sounding more like Oscar acceptance speeches than mere career updates. As ridiculously accurate as the responses are, it comes as no surprise that the tool has taken social media by the storm. “Babe wake up someone created Google Translate for LinkedIn,” one user said on X in a post with over 6.6 million views. Redditors, meanwhile, have been testing how well the tool deals with funny or obnoxious phrases. LinkedIn Speak always seems to come up with an answer. Take one user who inputed the phrase “my dog has bad gas.” The translator responded: “I’m currently navigating a unique air quality challenge within my domestic ecosystem. It’s a powerful reminder that even our most loyal partners can disrupt the status quo, forcing us to pivot and optimize our environment. Grateful for the opportunity to practice resilience and deep breathing today. #Leadership #ProblemSolving #Agility #PetOwnership.” Kagi’s viral translator is just one of the company’s growing suite of products. Its flagship search engine sets itself apart due to its focus on privacy, with the company claiming it is free of ads and does not track the user’s data. Kagi is able to provide services without data mining by charging users, offering tiered prices starting at $5 a month. The company also offers its own large language model (LLM), and recently launched the mobile option of its translator tool, and “Small Web,” which curates a collection of human-authored and noncommercial websites. And while LinkedIn Speak might be taken mostly as a joke online, there’s clearly a practical use to it—as it also allows users to convert LinkedIn posts back to English. “[Finally] a way to decode what ‘leveraging synergies across cross-functional teams’ actually means,” one X user added. View the full article

Visibility is no longer just about ranking. It depends on whether your content is discovered, evaluated, and selected in AI-driven search experiences. We’re kicking off our new monthly SMX Now webinar series on April 1 at 1 p.m. ET with iPullRank’s Zach Chahalis, Patrick Schofield, and Garrett Sussman on how you must adapt. The session introduces iPullRank’s Relevance Engineering (r19g) framework for executing Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) through an omnichannel content strategy. You’ll learn how AI search uses query fan-outs to discover and select sources, and how to structure content so it’s retrieved, surfaced, and cited. It also emphasizes that GEO success isn’t universal. It requires testing, tailored strategies, and a three-tier measurement model spanning discovery, selection, and citation impact. Save your spot Search Engine Land is proud to be a media partner for iPullRank’s upcoming SEO Week event. View the full article

Shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy described public prayers as ‘an act of domination’View the full article

One-time pick to lead key statistics body EJ Antoni says inflation was ‘worse than we thought’ even before conflictView the full article

If you’re considering buying a small business near you, it’s important to start with clear goals and a solid comprehension of the market. You’ll need to assess your financial readiness, including the down payment and transaction costs. Engaging professional advisors can help you navigate the intricacies of the acquisition process. Grasping these initial steps is critical, as they lay the groundwork for a successful purchase and shift. Let’s explore the key tips that can guide you through this expedition. Key Takeaways Define your business goals early, determining whether you prefer active management or passive investment in a thriving sector like Houston’s energy or healthcare. Conduct thorough market research to identify local competitors and assess their strengths, weaknesses, and market positions. Assemble a team of professional advisors, including attorneys and CPAs, to guide you through due diligence and hidden liability assessments. Explore financing options such as SBA 7(a) loans and seller financing to minimize upfront costs and secure your investment. Ensure compliance with local regulations and verify all licenses and permits before finalizing your business purchase. Define Your Business Goals and Objectives When you’re considering buying a small business, it’s essential to clearly define your business goals and objectives, as this foundational step will shape your entire acquisition strategy. First, decide if you want to actively manage the business or if it will serve as a passive investment. This choice impacts your operational involvement and the types of opportunities you’ll explore. Identify your long-term objectives, such as profit generation or retirement, to align your strategy with your financial aspirations. Analyze the compatibility of your goals with thriving sectors in Houston, like Energy, Healthcare, and Technology. Each acquisition is unique, so assess your experience level—whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned buyer. Engaging professionals early in the process can help clarify and refine your goals, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a successful shift when you find a small business for sale near me or decide to buy small business near me. Conduct Thorough Market Research To make informed decisions when buying a small business, you need to analyze local competition and identify market trends. Start by examining the unique dynamics of the Houston market, where many businesses are valued below national averages, creating potential opportunities. Analyze Local Competition Analyzing local competition is crucial for comprehending the market environment before buying a small business. Start by identifying at least three main competitors in your area. Evaluate their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning to understand how they operate. In Houston, the average revenue multiples are around 0.5x, lower than the national average of 0.65x, which can help you gauge pricing expectations for local businesses for sale. Assess customer demographics and trends in Harris County, as the population exceeds 4.7 million, revealing potential growth opportunities. Moreover, review key sectors like Energy, Healthcare, Technology, and Professional Services, which show resilience. Use competitor pricing and service offerings to inform your acquisition strategy, especially when considering a turnkey business for sale. Identify Market Trends Grasping market trends is vital for making informed decisions when considering the purchase of a small business. Comprehending these trends helps you identify potential opportunities and risks. Here’s how to effectively conduct market research: Analyze Key Sectors: In Houston, sectors like Energy, Healthcare, and Technology are thriving, indicating where to find a small business to buy. Evaluate Valuations: Houston’s business valuations are about 20% below national averages, offering chances to acquire undervalued businesses, including turn key business for sale. Assess Demographics: With Harris County‘s population exceeding 4.7 million, consumer demand is strong, making it imperative if you’re looking to buy home based business. Assess Your Financial Preparedness Before plunging into the process of buying a small business, it’s crucial to assess your financial preparedness, as this foundation can greatly influence your success. Start by determining your available cash for a down payment, which typically ranges from 10-15% of the purchase price. Remember to take into account total transaction costs, which can range from 5% to 15% of the purchase price, covering legal fees, due diligence costs, and business valuation services. If you’re eyeing turn key businesses or a home based business for sale, be ready to provide financial information to lenders and landlords who require proof of your financial capabilities. You might explore financing options like SBA 7(a) loans, which cover 75-80% of total project costs. Finally, account for potential professional costs for financial verification, which can vary widely, so budget accordingly to avoid surprises during your acquisition process. Engage Professional Advisors When you’re buying a small business, engaging professional advisors is crucial for maneuvering the intricacies of the acquisition process. Their expertise helps guarantee a thorough review of documents and identifies potential liabilities that could impact your investment. Importance of Expertise Engaging professional advisors is essential for maneuvering the intricacies of buying a small business, as their expertise can help you avoid costly pitfalls. By assembling a team early in the buying process, you improve your chances for a smooth changeover and mitigate potential issues. Here are three key areas where their expertise is invaluable: Identifying Hidden Liabilities: Attorneys and CPAs can uncover risks that may not be immediately apparent, protecting you from unexpected expenses. Quality of Earnings Analysis: Experienced accountants help you differentiate between sustainable profits and irregularities, guaranteeing informed purchasing decisions. Regulatory Compliance: Legal representation guarantees you meet all necessary regulations and licensing requirements, reducing risks associated with local laws. Investing in expert advice can ultimately save you money and headaches down the road. Comprehensive Document Review A thorough document review is critical during the acquisition of a small business, as it guarantees that all legal and financial aspects are thoroughly examined. Engaging a qualified attorney is crucial to uncover hidden liabilities and structural issues, guaranteeing a detailed analysis of client agreements, vendor contracts, and employee arrangements. Furthermore, hiring a CPA to conduct a quality of earnings analysis can help distinguish sustainable profits from irregularities, offering insight into the business’s financial health. Don’t overlook regulatory compliance checks, which confirm adherence to Texas regulations and prevent costly legal problems. Budgeting for professional verification costs, typically ranging from $8,000 to $40,000+, is essential. Finally, confirm proper documentation for intellectual property transfers to protect your investment. Liability Mitigation Strategies Identifying and addressing potential liabilities is crucial during the acquisition of a small business, especially if you want to protect your investment and guarantee a smooth transition. Engaging professional advisors can greatly reduce risks associated with your purchase. Here are a few strategies to contemplate: Hire experienced attorneys to uncover hidden liabilities and guarantee a thorough contract analysis of client agreements, vendor contracts, and employee arrangements. Utilize accountants for a quality of earnings analysis, helping you separate sustainable profits from irregularities and providing a clearer financial picture. Conduct regulatory compliance checks with legal advisors to guarantee adherence to Texas regulations and necessary licenses, minimizing legal exposure. Perform Due Diligence on Potential Acquisitions Performing due diligence on potential acquisitions is crucial for guaranteeing you’re making a sound investment. Begin by reviewing financial documents, including at least three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements. Verify cash flow patterns by analyzing bank statements to identify any red flags. Engaging a certified public accountant (CPA) can provide a quality of earnings analysis, separating sustainable profits from irregularities. Use a structured due diligence checklist to evaluate operational agreements and employee contracts systematically. Don’t forget to assess the business’s liabilities and guarantee clarity on insurance and licensing. Due Diligence Aspect Key Actions Financial Review Examine tax returns, P&L, and balance sheets Cash Flow Verification Analyze bank statements and payment histories Quality of Earnings Analysis Engage a CPA for accurate valuation Liability Assessment Review insurance and licensing agreements Analyze Business Financials and Valuation When you’re looking to buy a small business, analyzing financial records is essential for comprehending its performance and potential. You’ll want to review at least three years of tax returns, balance sheets, and profit/loss statements to spot trends and assess overall financial health. Furthermore, selecting the right valuation method, such as Earnings Multiplier or Discounted Cash Flow, helps you estimate the business’s worth and negotiate effectively. Financial Records Assessment Evaluating financial records is a crucial step in buying a small business, as it provides insight into the company’s overall health and future potential. Start by reviewing at least three years of tax returns and financial statements to identify trends. Pay attention to cash flow statements, balance sheets, and profit/loss statements. Here are three key areas to focus on: Conduct a quality of earnings analysis with a CPA to identify sustainable profits and avoid irregularities. Analyze the business’s liabilities, including operational costs, insurance, and licensing, to prevent hidden issues. Understand local market averages, like Houston’s earnings multiple of 2.1x, to better assess potential valuation opportunities. Thorough financial assessment lays the foundation for informed decision-making. Valuation Method Selection After evaluating the financial records, selecting the right valuation method becomes a pivotal next step in the process of buying a small business. Focus on cash flow statements, balance sheets, and sales records to identify trends and assess sustainability. Common valuation methods, like Times Revenue and Earnings Multiplier, help estimate a business’s present value based on financial performance. It’s wise to conduct a quality of earnings analysis with a CPA to separate sustainable profits from irregularities and uncover hidden liabilities. Additionally, comprehending IRS requirements for fair market value is essential for compliance and accuracy. Tailor your valuation approach to industry specifics and market conditions in Houston, where average earnings multiples sit at 2.1x, slightly below the national average of 2.5x. Understand Legal and Regulatory Requirements Comprehending the legal and regulatory requirements is essential for anyone looking to buy a small business, especially in a complicated market like Houston. Ensuring compliance can save you from legal complications later on. Here are three key areas to focus on: Licenses and Permits: Verify that all necessary licenses and permits are current and comply with Texas regulations to avoid delays in your acquisition process. Regulatory Compliance Check: Conduct a thorough inspection to uncover any hidden liabilities or structural issues that could impact the business’s legality. Engage a Qualified Attorney: Consult with an attorney to gain insights into employee agreements, vendor contracts, and intellectual property obligations, ensuring a smooth transfer of ownership. Understanding these elements will help you navigate the intricacies of acquiring a small business and set a solid foundation for your new venture. Explore Financing Options and Structures When you’re contemplating buying a small business, comprehending your financing options and structures is vital. Typically, you’ll need a down payment of 10-15% of the purchase price. An SBA 7(a) loan can cover 75-80% of total project costs, offering longer amortization periods, competitive interest rates, and lower down payment requirements, making it a favored choice. Seller financing can contribute 5-15% of the purchase price, reducing your upfront cash needs and reflecting the seller’s confidence in the business, potentially encouraging a shift in support. You might consider various financing sources, including traditional banks, credit unions, and private investors. It’s important to understand the interest rates and repayment terms of any financing arrangement. Moreover, keep in mind that total transaction costs in Houston can range from 5% to 15% of the purchase price, encompassing legal fees, accounting costs, and business valuation services, so factor these into your budget. Plan for Seller Training and Transition Support Planning for seller training and changeover support is essential to guarantee a smooth handover of the business. The right training can greatly impact your success as a new owner. Here are three key areas to focus on: Training Duration: Understand that training periods vary; service businesses may need 2-4 weeks, whereas professional services might require 3-6 months for effective knowledge transfer. Training Agreement Structure: Clearly define the training scope, including hours, topics, and performance incentives tied to seller financing. This guarantees extensive support during the shift. Ongoing Support: Consider arranging for consultation availability post-sale. This can help you navigate challenges and provide guidance as you settle into your new role. Additionally, implement non-compete agreements during the training phase to protect your interests, preventing sellers from launching competing businesses right after the sale. Develop a Strategic Offer and Negotiation Plan After securing adequate training and support from the seller, the next crucial step involves crafting a strategic offer and negotiation plan that reflects both your financial parameters and the seller’s expectations. Start by developing a thorough Letter of Intent (LOI) that clearly outlines key terms, such as purchase price, financing structure, and any contingencies related to due diligence. Research the average earnings multiple in Houston, currently 2.1x, to guarantee your offer is competitive and aligns with market standards during evaluating the business’s financial health. Consider incorporating seller financing, typically 5-15% of the purchase price, to reduce your upfront cash needs and demonstrate confidence in the business’s value. Understand the seller’s motivation for selling, as this knowledge can help you negotiate effectively. Finally, seek professional insights from a business broker or financial advisor to align your offer with long-term objectives and address potential acquisition risks. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Way to Buy a Small Business? To buy a small business, start by researching potential industries and evaluating financial health through cash flow and profit/loss statements. Engage a qualified business broker for expertise and access to exclusive listings. Secure financing options, like an SBA 7(a) loan, to cover project costs. Conduct thorough due diligence within 15 days of your offer, reviewing all legal and financial documents. Assemble a team of professionals, including a CPA and attorney, to guarantee compliance and verification. How Much Is a Business Worth With $100,000 in Sales? A business with $100,000 in sales typically has a valuation lower than expected, often around $50,000 based on a 0.5x revenue multiple in Houston. If the business generates $25,000 in earnings, its value could be approximately $52,500, using a 2.1x earnings multiple. Factors like industry, growth potential, and market conditions greatly influence these valuations, so it’s essential to conduct a thorough financial analysis to determine the business’s worth accurately. How Much Money Do I Need to Put Down to Buy a Business? When you’re looking to buy a business, expect to put down around 10-15% of the purchase price as a down payment. If you’re using an SBA 7(a) loan, this percentage typically covers 75-80% of total project costs. Seller financing can often help reduce the amount of cash you need upfront. How Much Is a Business Worth With $500,000 in Sales? A business with $500,000 in sales typically has a valuation around $250,000 in Houston, based on a revenue multiple of 0.5x. Nevertheless, if it has a profit margin of 10%, its earnings valuation might drop to about $210,000, using an average earnings multiple of 2.1x. Factors like industry trends, growth potential, and operational efficiencies influence the final worth, so conducting a detailed financial analysis is essential for accurate valuation. Conclusion Buying a small business requires careful planning and informed decision-making. By defining your goals, conducting market research, and evaluating your financial readiness, you set a solid foundation for success. Engaging professional advisors and performing due diligence guarantees you understand the legal and financial aspects of the acquisition. Exploring financing options and planning for a smooth shift with seller support will further improve your chances of a successful business ownership experience. Make these steps a priority to achieve your objectives. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Tips for Buying a Small Business Near Me" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re considering buying a small business near you, it’s important to start with clear goals and a solid comprehension of the market. You’ll need to assess your financial readiness, including the down payment and transaction costs. Engaging professional advisors can help you navigate the intricacies of the acquisition process. Grasping these initial steps is critical, as they lay the groundwork for a successful purchase and shift. Let’s explore the key tips that can guide you through this expedition. Key Takeaways Define your business goals early, determining whether you prefer active management or passive investment in a thriving sector like Houston’s energy or healthcare. Conduct thorough market research to identify local competitors and assess their strengths, weaknesses, and market positions. Assemble a team of professional advisors, including attorneys and CPAs, to guide you through due diligence and hidden liability assessments. Explore financing options such as SBA 7(a) loans and seller financing to minimize upfront costs and secure your investment. Ensure compliance with local regulations and verify all licenses and permits before finalizing your business purchase. Define Your Business Goals and Objectives When you’re considering buying a small business, it’s essential to clearly define your business goals and objectives, as this foundational step will shape your entire acquisition strategy. First, decide if you want to actively manage the business or if it will serve as a passive investment. This choice impacts your operational involvement and the types of opportunities you’ll explore. Identify your long-term objectives, such as profit generation or retirement, to align your strategy with your financial aspirations. Analyze the compatibility of your goals with thriving sectors in Houston, like Energy, Healthcare, and Technology. Each acquisition is unique, so assess your experience level—whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned buyer. Engaging professionals early in the process can help clarify and refine your goals, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a successful shift when you find a small business for sale near me or decide to buy small business near me. Conduct Thorough Market Research To make informed decisions when buying a small business, you need to analyze local competition and identify market trends. Start by examining the unique dynamics of the Houston market, where many businesses are valued below national averages, creating potential opportunities. Analyze Local Competition Analyzing local competition is crucial for comprehending the market environment before buying a small business. Start by identifying at least three main competitors in your area. Evaluate their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning to understand how they operate. In Houston, the average revenue multiples are around 0.5x, lower than the national average of 0.65x, which can help you gauge pricing expectations for local businesses for sale. Assess customer demographics and trends in Harris County, as the population exceeds 4.7 million, revealing potential growth opportunities. Moreover, review key sectors like Energy, Healthcare, Technology, and Professional Services, which show resilience. Use competitor pricing and service offerings to inform your acquisition strategy, especially when considering a turnkey business for sale. Identify Market Trends Grasping market trends is vital for making informed decisions when considering the purchase of a small business. Comprehending these trends helps you identify potential opportunities and risks. Here’s how to effectively conduct market research: Analyze Key Sectors: In Houston, sectors like Energy, Healthcare, and Technology are thriving, indicating where to find a small business to buy. Evaluate Valuations: Houston’s business valuations are about 20% below national averages, offering chances to acquire undervalued businesses, including turn key business for sale. Assess Demographics: With Harris County‘s population exceeding 4.7 million, consumer demand is strong, making it imperative if you’re looking to buy home based business. Assess Your Financial Preparedness Before plunging into the process of buying a small business, it’s crucial to assess your financial preparedness, as this foundation can greatly influence your success. Start by determining your available cash for a down payment, which typically ranges from 10-15% of the purchase price. Remember to take into account total transaction costs, which can range from 5% to 15% of the purchase price, covering legal fees, due diligence costs, and business valuation services. If you’re eyeing turn key businesses or a home based business for sale, be ready to provide financial information to lenders and landlords who require proof of your financial capabilities. You might explore financing options like SBA 7(a) loans, which cover 75-80% of total project costs. Finally, account for potential professional costs for financial verification, which can vary widely, so budget accordingly to avoid surprises during your acquisition process. Engage Professional Advisors When you’re buying a small business, engaging professional advisors is crucial for maneuvering the intricacies of the acquisition process. Their expertise helps guarantee a thorough review of documents and identifies potential liabilities that could impact your investment. Importance of Expertise Engaging professional advisors is essential for maneuvering the intricacies of buying a small business, as their expertise can help you avoid costly pitfalls. By assembling a team early in the buying process, you improve your chances for a smooth changeover and mitigate potential issues. Here are three key areas where their expertise is invaluable: Identifying Hidden Liabilities: Attorneys and CPAs can uncover risks that may not be immediately apparent, protecting you from unexpected expenses. Quality of Earnings Analysis: Experienced accountants help you differentiate between sustainable profits and irregularities, guaranteeing informed purchasing decisions. Regulatory Compliance: Legal representation guarantees you meet all necessary regulations and licensing requirements, reducing risks associated with local laws. Investing in expert advice can ultimately save you money and headaches down the road. Comprehensive Document Review A thorough document review is critical during the acquisition of a small business, as it guarantees that all legal and financial aspects are thoroughly examined. Engaging a qualified attorney is crucial to uncover hidden liabilities and structural issues, guaranteeing a detailed analysis of client agreements, vendor contracts, and employee arrangements. Furthermore, hiring a CPA to conduct a quality of earnings analysis can help distinguish sustainable profits from irregularities, offering insight into the business’s financial health. Don’t overlook regulatory compliance checks, which confirm adherence to Texas regulations and prevent costly legal problems. Budgeting for professional verification costs, typically ranging from $8,000 to $40,000+, is essential. Finally, confirm proper documentation for intellectual property transfers to protect your investment. Liability Mitigation Strategies Identifying and addressing potential liabilities is crucial during the acquisition of a small business, especially if you want to protect your investment and guarantee a smooth transition. Engaging professional advisors can greatly reduce risks associated with your purchase. Here are a few strategies to contemplate: Hire experienced attorneys to uncover hidden liabilities and guarantee a thorough contract analysis of client agreements, vendor contracts, and employee arrangements. Utilize accountants for a quality of earnings analysis, helping you separate sustainable profits from irregularities and providing a clearer financial picture. Conduct regulatory compliance checks with legal advisors to guarantee adherence to Texas regulations and necessary licenses, minimizing legal exposure. Perform Due Diligence on Potential Acquisitions Performing due diligence on potential acquisitions is crucial for guaranteeing you’re making a sound investment. Begin by reviewing financial documents, including at least three years of tax returns and profit and loss statements. Verify cash flow patterns by analyzing bank statements to identify any red flags. Engaging a certified public accountant (CPA) can provide a quality of earnings analysis, separating sustainable profits from irregularities. Use a structured due diligence checklist to evaluate operational agreements and employee contracts systematically. Don’t forget to assess the business’s liabilities and guarantee clarity on insurance and licensing. Due Diligence Aspect Key Actions Financial Review Examine tax returns, P&L, and balance sheets Cash Flow Verification Analyze bank statements and payment histories Quality of Earnings Analysis Engage a CPA for accurate valuation Liability Assessment Review insurance and licensing agreements Analyze Business Financials and Valuation When you’re looking to buy a small business, analyzing financial records is essential for comprehending its performance and potential. You’ll want to review at least three years of tax returns, balance sheets, and profit/loss statements to spot trends and assess overall financial health. Furthermore, selecting the right valuation method, such as Earnings Multiplier or Discounted Cash Flow, helps you estimate the business’s worth and negotiate effectively. Financial Records Assessment Evaluating financial records is a crucial step in buying a small business, as it provides insight into the company’s overall health and future potential. Start by reviewing at least three years of tax returns and financial statements to identify trends. Pay attention to cash flow statements, balance sheets, and profit/loss statements. Here are three key areas to focus on: Conduct a quality of earnings analysis with a CPA to identify sustainable profits and avoid irregularities. Analyze the business’s liabilities, including operational costs, insurance, and licensing, to prevent hidden issues. Understand local market averages, like Houston’s earnings multiple of 2.1x, to better assess potential valuation opportunities. Thorough financial assessment lays the foundation for informed decision-making. Valuation Method Selection After evaluating the financial records, selecting the right valuation method becomes a pivotal next step in the process of buying a small business. Focus on cash flow statements, balance sheets, and sales records to identify trends and assess sustainability. Common valuation methods, like Times Revenue and Earnings Multiplier, help estimate a business’s present value based on financial performance. It’s wise to conduct a quality of earnings analysis with a CPA to separate sustainable profits from irregularities and uncover hidden liabilities. Additionally, comprehending IRS requirements for fair market value is essential for compliance and accuracy. Tailor your valuation approach to industry specifics and market conditions in Houston, where average earnings multiples sit at 2.1x, slightly below the national average of 2.5x. Understand Legal and Regulatory Requirements Comprehending the legal and regulatory requirements is essential for anyone looking to buy a small business, especially in a complicated market like Houston. Ensuring compliance can save you from legal complications later on. Here are three key areas to focus on: Licenses and Permits: Verify that all necessary licenses and permits are current and comply with Texas regulations to avoid delays in your acquisition process. Regulatory Compliance Check: Conduct a thorough inspection to uncover any hidden liabilities or structural issues that could impact the business’s legality. Engage a Qualified Attorney: Consult with an attorney to gain insights into employee agreements, vendor contracts, and intellectual property obligations, ensuring a smooth transfer of ownership. Understanding these elements will help you navigate the intricacies of acquiring a small business and set a solid foundation for your new venture. Explore Financing Options and Structures When you’re contemplating buying a small business, comprehending your financing options and structures is vital. Typically, you’ll need a down payment of 10-15% of the purchase price. An SBA 7(a) loan can cover 75-80% of total project costs, offering longer amortization periods, competitive interest rates, and lower down payment requirements, making it a favored choice. Seller financing can contribute 5-15% of the purchase price, reducing your upfront cash needs and reflecting the seller’s confidence in the business, potentially encouraging a shift in support. You might consider various financing sources, including traditional banks, credit unions, and private investors. It’s important to understand the interest rates and repayment terms of any financing arrangement. Moreover, keep in mind that total transaction costs in Houston can range from 5% to 15% of the purchase price, encompassing legal fees, accounting costs, and business valuation services, so factor these into your budget. Plan for Seller Training and Transition Support Planning for seller training and changeover support is essential to guarantee a smooth handover of the business. The right training can greatly impact your success as a new owner. Here are three key areas to focus on: Training Duration: Understand that training periods vary; service businesses may need 2-4 weeks, whereas professional services might require 3-6 months for effective knowledge transfer. Training Agreement Structure: Clearly define the training scope, including hours, topics, and performance incentives tied to seller financing. This guarantees extensive support during the shift. Ongoing Support: Consider arranging for consultation availability post-sale. This can help you navigate challenges and provide guidance as you settle into your new role. Additionally, implement non-compete agreements during the training phase to protect your interests, preventing sellers from launching competing businesses right after the sale. Develop a Strategic Offer and Negotiation Plan After securing adequate training and support from the seller, the next crucial step involves crafting a strategic offer and negotiation plan that reflects both your financial parameters and the seller’s expectations. Start by developing a thorough Letter of Intent (LOI) that clearly outlines key terms, such as purchase price, financing structure, and any contingencies related to due diligence. Research the average earnings multiple in Houston, currently 2.1x, to guarantee your offer is competitive and aligns with market standards during evaluating the business’s financial health. Consider incorporating seller financing, typically 5-15% of the purchase price, to reduce your upfront cash needs and demonstrate confidence in the business’s value. Understand the seller’s motivation for selling, as this knowledge can help you negotiate effectively. Finally, seek professional insights from a business broker or financial advisor to align your offer with long-term objectives and address potential acquisition risks. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Way to Buy a Small Business? To buy a small business, start by researching potential industries and evaluating financial health through cash flow and profit/loss statements. Engage a qualified business broker for expertise and access to exclusive listings. Secure financing options, like an SBA 7(a) loan, to cover project costs. Conduct thorough due diligence within 15 days of your offer, reviewing all legal and financial documents. Assemble a team of professionals, including a CPA and attorney, to guarantee compliance and verification. How Much Is a Business Worth With $100,000 in Sales? A business with $100,000 in sales typically has a valuation lower than expected, often around $50,000 based on a 0.5x revenue multiple in Houston. If the business generates $25,000 in earnings, its value could be approximately $52,500, using a 2.1x earnings multiple. Factors like industry, growth potential, and market conditions greatly influence these valuations, so it’s essential to conduct a thorough financial analysis to determine the business’s worth accurately. How Much Money Do I Need to Put Down to Buy a Business? When you’re looking to buy a business, expect to put down around 10-15% of the purchase price as a down payment. If you’re using an SBA 7(a) loan, this percentage typically covers 75-80% of total project costs. Seller financing can often help reduce the amount of cash you need upfront. How Much Is a Business Worth With $500,000 in Sales? A business with $500,000 in sales typically has a valuation around $250,000 in Houston, based on a revenue multiple of 0.5x. Nevertheless, if it has a profit margin of 10%, its earnings valuation might drop to about $210,000, using an average earnings multiple of 2.1x. Factors like industry trends, growth potential, and operational efficiencies influence the final worth, so conducting a detailed financial analysis is essential for accurate valuation. Conclusion Buying a small business requires careful planning and informed decision-making. By defining your goals, conducting market research, and evaluating your financial readiness, you set a solid foundation for success. Engaging professional advisors and performing due diligence guarantees you understand the legal and financial aspects of the acquisition. Exploring financing options and planning for a smooth shift with seller support will further improve your chances of a successful business ownership experience. Make these steps a priority to achieve your objectives. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Tips for Buying a Small Business Near Me" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A reader writes: I manage an employee who, to put it frankly, has a bad attitude. Negative about everything: our job, our clients, life in general. A constant rain cloud. He brings down morale quite a bit, and other employees have made comments to me about how hard it is to work with him. Where I struggle is that I have a lot of sympathy for him and the many health problems he has been facing the last few years. He was in a car accident that he sustained pretty big injuries from, was diagnosed with a chronic disease which causes him constant pain, and also has had to deal with the sudden loss of a sibling. I feel like I would kind of hate the world, too. How do I address this without adding yet another blow to his mood? I answer this question — and two others — over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. Other questions I’m answering there today include: Can I give one employee a gift but not the other? Dealing with infertility in a baby-talk-heavy office The post my employee has a terrible attitude … for a good reason appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article