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It’s four answers to four questions. Here we go… 1. I cried at work and my coworkers won’t stop asking if I’m okay I work in a small office where there are some strong personalities and, though our manager is very nice and reasonable, there’s only so much you can do about people like that. Yesterday, two of my coworkers (Mary and John) and I ended up having to do mediation with our manager over the pettiest shit imaginable. It’s so petty I can summarize the whole thing in one sentence: John walked in while Mary and I were prepping for a workshop, put a form whose processing is not my job on my desk, and when I asked him why he was giving it to me, snatched it back and walked out while ignoring Mary’s attempts to make small talk. Later, John informed me that Mary and I had been bullying and harassing him and he had called our manager, Lisa, who would be having one-to-one talks with us about it. I was so, so mad. Mary and John both use me as a screaming pillow when they want to vent or are angry about some new stupid policy and, since my workspace is by the front desk, I can’t just walk away since they block the exits. I end up smiling and nodding until they’re done. If I snapped a bit, then okay, but I deeply resent the fact that it became a huge issue worthy of calling the manager the one time I happened to sound anything less than perfectly pleasant and demure, when he’s allowed to be loud and shouty all the time. The problem is that when I get really angry, I cry. Not just tearing up, but full-on sobbing to the point where I can’t speak. Despite my best efforts, during the talk with my manager (who wasn’t even grilling me or anything, just chatting with me to get my perspective), years of pent-up frustration with my coworkers broke the dam and I burst into tears. Lisa was very nice about it, but it was humiliating. Since then, Mary and Lisa keep asking me if I’m alright despite me repeatedly saying that yes, I am. I just want them to forget they saw or heard anything and move on. I know they’re only asking because they care, and it feels really mean to just be like, “Stop asking me that.” Is this just something I have to wait out, or can I do something to convince them I really am okay and they don’t need to keep asking? “I know it was a big reaction and you’re asking out of concern, but honestly, I’m embarrassed and would be really grateful if we could just move past it.” If you want, you could add, “I promise you I’m fine and, the faster it’s behind me, the better I will feel.” That said … is there maybe an opening here to talk to Lisa about your frustrations with John shouting and trapping you at your desk to rant and so forth? I get it if you just don’t want to have to talk about it anymore, but it sounds like you have some legitimate frustrations that an effective manager could act on if she knew about them. (Of course, maybe she does. Maybe you’ve tried this enough in the past to no avail and that’s why you just want to be done talking about it, in which ignore this paragraph.) 2. How should I call out for a general strike? What is the correct way to call out on Friday if one wants to participate in the general strike? I’m still trying to decide if it’s something I can/should do (I support the cause 100%, just unsure if it makes an impact for me to participate from another state while working for an unrelated local government agency), but I don’t know if using a sick day is the right way to do it or if I should use a vacation day. I’m unlikely to be questioned about using a sick day, for what it’s worth, though I could maaaybe be straight with my boss about the reason and use a vacation day. First, for people who don’t know, a general strike is when people from multiple industries (ideally all or most) unite to withhold their labor. One is called for today (Friday) to protest violence by ICE, including the murders of Renee Good and Alex Petti; organizers are asking people to abstain from work, school, and shopping. If your workplace isn’t unionized, then you probably don’t have the legal right to strike on your own with the risk of losing your job. A safer option if you want to participate is to call out sick. (Caveat: if a bunch of your coworkers call out sick without actually being sick, you do risk disciplinary action. That might not happen, but be aware that it could. In general, striking or participating in any form of collective action always carries possible risk.) Also, be safe and don’t use your company’s email or messaging systems to talk about this or to organize. But if you don’t feel you can safely participate in a general strike, there are still lots of other ways you can help, such as contacting your legislators (contact them again, if you already have), donating to organizations doing work you support, volunteering, and getting involving in mutual aid work in your community. 3. I got stuck paying my own tab at a company party where they footed the bill I work for a small company. Every year we vote on having our Christmas party catered or we going to a restaurant for a pre-fixed, set price menu, which is paid before. The company will not pay for any alcohol. Every year, I vote for an in-office, catered party, as I previously worked in restaurants and saw too many fiascos at company parties. However, this year the vote was for at a nearby restaurant. The party went fine and my coworkers and I all had one or two drinks apiece. At the end of the meal, our branch manager (not the owner who had made the no-alcohol rule) generously went to the bar and paid the whole party’s bar tab. But as we were leaving, the waiter chased me down and said I needed to pay my bar tab. I was confused, but I know mistakes happen and since my boss was not nearby me, I paid the $84, plus tip, and figured I would just mention it to my boss the next day. Hindsight being 20/20, I understand now that I should have questioned it at the time. But we were literally heading out and I thought it might embarrass my boss to put her on the spot. The next morning, I mentioned it to my boss and she said that she had paid the whole bill and had the receipt listing every item ordered. She called the restaurant and they had no explanation, so I was still confused as to what I was charged for. However, in her retelling to me of the conversation, she said something I didn’t fully register at the time. Which is that she didn’t tip on the bar tab, which might mean the waiter approached me to get payment for the gratuity. I’m still not sure, to be honest I don’t feel like the numbers add up, but if it my boss really didn’t tip then I’d rather just leave it, as I would hate for that to be true. But I’m also pretty frustrated because I feel I got put in a situation I wanted to avoid from the start and am now paying $100 more than my colleagues who voted for this option. My boss is now furious about how I was treated (why did the waiter single me out, when she was the host?) and wants to go to the restaurant in person for an explanation. If the explanation is that it’s the missing gratuity, I’d rather just leave it, but I’m pretty sure it would offend my boss to say that. But it’s also possible that’s not even true. What do I do? Let your boss go to the restaurant and sort it out. As the host of the event, it’s reasonable that she’s upset about an employee being charged for something they weren’t supposed to be charged for, and it’s reasonable for her to take responsibility for sorting it out. If that leads to the restaurant explaining that no tip was left, then so be it — if she’s offended by that, you won’t be the one explaining it. And there’s some value in her hearing that it’s not okay not to tip (and this gets it done without you having to be the one to tell her). That said, I’m not sure this is about the tip — at least in my area, unless the restaurant has a policy of adding it to the bill for large parties, they couldn’t just hand you a bill for it. (And if they did have that policy, presumably it would have been on the original bill … although maybe it was and she ignored it, and that’s what happened?) Anyway, let her sort it out. 4. Office renovation disaster has led to more disasters I work for a large company on-site at a manufacturing plant, with 2,700 employees at my location. I am an assistant manager in purchasing, so not directly tied to production. A few offices in the plant were recently renovated, but someone miscounted the number of desks needed. We wound up being about 50 desks short for our office of about 150 (oops). Because fewer desks were purchased, they ordered bigger desks, and some conference rooms were built to take up the extra space. We were making do with only 100 desks until work-from-home policies changed, which means we now need all 150 of those desks and do not have space for them in our office (double oops). To account for this, multiple departments have been shuffled around the plant, majority being flip flopped between two offices. Office A has prime real estate: right next to the cafeteria and restrooms, elevators nearby, etc. Office B is halfway across the plant and walking through the plant on a “catwalk,” or pathway above the manufacturing floor. Office staff usually get the worst parking spots, so it’s almost a half mile walk to Office B. In addition, to get to Office B, associates must walk up two flights of stairs (an elevator is available), down a flight of stairs (no elevator), then back up a flight of stairs (no elevator). There are no restrooms or water fountains on that floor, so they have to go up and down 1-2 flights of stairs (no elevator) every time they need to use the bathroom. On top of this, each bathroom is closed for cleaning at different times every day, so some unlucky associates may be stuck doing a second 1-2 flights of stairs (no elevator) if the first is closed. Of course, our department was one of the departments that moved from Office A to Office B. All 150 of us who moved offices had to pack up everything from our desks and carry it across the plant/catwalk (including monitors and standing desks), as we did not have movers in the budget. We did have temporary access to a freight elevator for the standing desks/monitors, but everything else had to be carried up/down stairs by our office staff. Since we moved, a few associates had medical conditions pop up and can’t get to Office B with the stairs/walking through the plant. That means people either have to work in Office A away from their team, or work from home until they are able to resume stairs/walking through the plant. This is weird, right? I imagine a day will come where an associate cannot walk to our office due to illness/age/medical situation, then what? I feel like I’m in the middle of a TV show and would love some validation that this isn’t normal?! Correct, this is weird and not normal. From the original desk-counting mistake not being corrected once it was discovered, to expecting people to take such a circuitous journey multiple times a day, to being responsible for hauling your own monitors and standing desks across a catwalk (!), this is all absurd. To your question about what will happen if someone physically can’t get to your office because of their physical condition, I imagine they’ll handle it like they’re handling temporary medical conditions now: people will be given an accommodation in the form of working from home or from Office A. So they’re complying with the law. But it is indeed bananapants. The post I cried at work and my coworkers won’t stop asking if I’m OK, office renovation disaster, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Following last week’s anti-ICE economic blackout in Minnesota and national Free America Walkout, organizers are once again urging Americans to stop working, attending school, and spending money to protest the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement crackdown surging across the country. The fatal shootings of Minneapolis residents Renee Good and Alexi Pretti by federal officers only increased the public outcry against the The President administration’s hardline immigration and border policies and aggressive tactics used by swarms of masked agents. Here’s what to know. What is National Shutdown Day? National Shutdown Day on January 30 is a call to strike—to disrupt business as usual—as a way for Americans to register their mounting anger at the The President administration’s deployment of ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis and other cities nationwide. (Some 69% of Americans say President The President is trying to exert more power than previous presidents, according to a recent survey from the Pew Research Center.) With the tagline “No work. No school. No shopping. Stop funding ICE,” the nationalshutdown.org website reads, “The people of the Twin Cities have shown the way for the whole country—to stop ICE’s reign of terror, we need to SHUT IT DOWN. The entire country is shocked and outraged at the brutal killings of Alex Pretti, Renee Good, Silverio Villegas González, and Keith Porter Jr. by federal agents. . . . It is time for us to all stand up together in a nationwide shutdown and say enough is enough!” Organizers are also calling on Congress to cut funding to the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, when it votes on the current funding package ahead of a possible federal government shutdown. Walkouts, events, vigils, and protests are set to take place in all 50 states, including in New York City, Boston, Seattle, Los Angeles, Cleveland, Atlanta, Chicago, and Philadelphia—from state capitals (Honolulu) to federal buildings and courthouses (Tucson, Arizona, and Cincinnati), universities (Stanford, Santa Clara University, the University of Washington, Northeastern University), and even some high schools (in Miami). On Friday, a number of student groups at the University of Minnesota—including the Somali Student Association, Black Student Union, and Graduate Labor Union—will lead a walkout on campus. “Students are always at the heart of movements for justice across the world,” they said in a statement. “Students are encouraged to participate in [the] protests after walking out.” Businesses nationwide to close for general strike Following Minnesota’s recent statewide strike, local businesses in the Twin Cities and across the nation are planning to close on Friday. They include 50 businesses and shops in Portland, Maine; several restaurants in Denver; bookstores, coffeeshops, and retailers in Rochester, New York; businesses in Omaha, Nebraska; a Las Vegas pizza shop; and numerous Los Angeles restaurants, to name just a few, according to local news reports. “It has been increasingly difficult to watch what is unfolding in our country,” the owners of Denver restaurant Sắp Sửa told television station KDVR. “We have felt so helpless and alone, and it’s abundantly clear that no one will come to save us, so it is our civic duty to unite as a community in support of the most vulnerable.” Grassroots organizers 50501 are calling for additional “ICE Out of Everywhere” protests on Saturday, January 31, at ICE detention centers and offices; at airports to target airlines that are transporting ICE detainees, including Global Crossing Airlines and World Atlantic Airlines; and at some Congressional offices, according to The Guardian. Who is organizing the National Shutdown? National Shutdown Day, like many of the previous national walkouts and protests over the past year, lists a broad coalition of grassroots partners, including: 50501, local chapters of the American Civil Liberties Union, Defend Immigrant Families Campaign, Council on American-Islamic Relations, North Carolina Poor People’s Campaign, student groups, labor unions, and immigrant rights organizations. In addition, the strike has garnered the attention of a number of Hollywood celebrities, including Pedro Pascal, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Edward Norton. “We cannot act like this is not happening,” Norton, a longtime political activist, said at a recent Sundance Film Festival panel discussion. “What they’re doing in Minnesota with the strike needs to expand. I think we should be talking about a national, general economic strike until this is over.” New York University professor Scott Galloway has also called for a prolonged general economic strike. View the full article

UK prime minister to travel to Shanghai seeking to drum up deals after meeting Xi JinpingView the full article

Ruling comes after Donald The President’s vow to ‘take back control’ of shipping lane and reassert US influence in regionView the full article

In relation to managing HR and payroll functions, choosing the right software can greatly influence your small business’s efficiency and compliance. The top five solutions—Paycor, ADP, Gusto, QuickBooks, and OnPay—each offer distinct advantages customized to various needs. From user-friendly interfaces to integrated accounting features, these platforms cater to different aspects of payroll management. Comprehending their strengths can help you make an informed decision for your business’s future. Let’s explore what each has to offer. Key Takeaways Paycor: Offers a comprehensive HR and payroll solution with high ratings, responsive support, and competitive pricing for small businesses. ADP: Known for reliable payroll services with automatic processing and compliance management, along with personalized HR support. Gusto: A user-friendly platform with automatic tax filing, integration with numerous applications, and exceptional customer service starting at $49/month. QuickBooks: Combines accounting with payroll processing, automating tax calculations, and offering robust support at a starting price of $50/month. OnPay: Provides an affordable flat rate for payroll services, automating processes with multi-state support and user-friendly features for easy tracking. Paycor: Best Overall for Small Businesses When you’re looking for the best HR and payroll software for small businesses, Paycor stands out due to its impressive rating of 4.8 stars, which reflects its robust core features. This HCM software offers crucial HR and payroll functionalities in both its Core and Complete packages, ensuring you receive value for your investment. Competitive pricing makes it accessible, whereas additional services like time and attendance and benefits administration can be purchased separately to tailor the solution to your needs. Paycor is likewise known for its responsive customer support, providing high-quality assistance for any inquiries or issues you might encounter. The software is designed to integrate seamlessly with other business tools, enhancing overall operational efficiency and user satisfaction. With Paycor, you can streamline your HR processes, making it an ideal choice for small businesses seeking an effective HR and payroll software solution. ADP: Trusted Payroll Provider ADP is widely recognized as a trusted provider of payroll and HR solutions, particularly with its RUN Driven by ADP platform, which is expressly designed for small businesses. This platform features automatic payroll processing and tax calculations, making it easier for you to handle your payroll tasks efficiently. Furthermore, ADP includes compliance management tools that help you navigate federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring you stay compliant with tax obligations. Moreover, the premium mobile app improves accessibility, allowing both employers and employees to manage payroll tasks on the go. The Payroll AutoPilot feature automates payroll processes, greatly reducing the likelihood of errors through AI-driven error detection. You’ll likewise benefit from personalized one-on-one support from HR professionals, who provide customized assistance for your unique payroll and HR needs. With ADP, you can streamline your payroll management while ensuring accuracy and compliance. Gusto: User-Friendly HR and Payroll Solution Gusto stands out as a user-friendly HR and payroll solution designed particularly for small businesses, making it a top choice for those seeking efficiency and reliability. Rated as the #1 software for small businesses in 2024, Gusto starts at $49 per month plus $6 per employee, focusing on saving time and reducing payroll errors. The platform offers features like automatic tax filing, unlimited payroll support, and an intuitive interface suitable for both novice and experienced payroll managers. With integration capabilities exceeding 100 applications, including popular accounting software like QuickBooks, Gusto improves functionality for small businesses. Users likewise enjoy dedicated onboarding support across all packages, ensuring a smooth start. Gusto is recognized for its outstanding customer service, providing assistance through phone, email, and web chat, which helps you address any inquiries quickly and efficiently. This thorough support makes Gusto a reliable option for managing HR and payroll needs effectively. QuickBooks: Integrated Accounting and Payroll For small businesses looking for an extensive solution, QuickBooks offers integrated accounting and payroll management features that streamline financial processes. The software automates payroll processing, tax calculations, and compliance support directly within the accounting platform, simplifying your financial tasks. With time tracking integrations, you can effectively manage employee hours and payroll calculations, which saves you time and reduces errors. QuickBooks Payroll starts at $50 per month, with an additional $6 per employee, making it an affordable choice for thorough financial management. You’ll appreciate the robust customer support options, including phone-based assistance during business hours and 24/7 chat support from payroll experts. Significantly, QuickBooks is designed for ease of use, making it suitable for both novice and experienced payroll managers. By choosing QuickBooks, you’re ensuring a seamless integration of accounting and payroll functions that can improve your business efficiency. OnPay: Affordable and Efficient Payroll Management Regarding payroll management, OnPay stands out as an affordable and efficient option for small businesses. With a flat rate of $36 per month, plus $4 for each employee, it offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. OnPay automates payroll processing, including multi-state payroll support and precise tax calculations, which helps you remain compliant and minimizes the risk of penalties. The platform features a user-friendly dashboard, enabling you to easily track payroll statuses and access electronic storage for employee documents. Moreover, OnPay provides dedicated onboarding support at no extra charge, assisting you with initial data entry and setup. This makes the shift to their system smooth and straightforward. In addition, OnPay integrates seamlessly with various accounting and time-tracking software, enhancing the overall efficiency of your payroll management. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best HR and Payroll Software? When choosing the best HR and payroll software, consider your business size and needs. Paycor is excellent for small businesses, whereas Gusto stands out for payroll ease. For larger operations, SAP SuccessFactors offers advanced features, including AI-assisted screening. OnPay simplifies payroll processes with its user-friendly interface, and ADP Run provides robust reporting for growing companies. Evaluate these options based on functionality, pricing, and support to find the best fit for your organization. Which Software Is Best for HR? When choosing the best HR software, consider your business size and specific needs. Paycor is an excellent option for small businesses, offering crucial HR features. For thorough tools, GoCo provides payroll and employee engagement capabilities. If you’re in a midsize or large business, SAP SuccessFactors’ AI-assisted features stand out. UKG and Zoho People likewise deliver solid HR functionalities. Evaluate your requirements to find the right software that meets your organization’s demands. What Is the Best Software for Payroll? When considering the best payroll software, you’ll find several strong options. Gusto offers robust features, including automatic tax filing, starting at $49 plus $6 per employee. OnPay is user-friendly and affordable, in addition beginning at $49. If you use QuickBooks, QuickBooks Payroll integrates seamlessly for $50 plus $6. For growing businesses, Paycor provides extensive features at $99, whereas Patriot Payroll is the most budget-friendly at $37 plus $5, ensuring crucial payroll processing. Who Is Adp’s Biggest Competitor? ADP’s biggest competitor is Gusto, known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features customized for small businesses. Gusto’s pricing starts at $49 per month, plus $6 per employee, making it an attractive option. Other notable competitors include Paycor, which has a strong rating and competitive pricing, and QuickBooks Payroll, favored for seamless integration with QuickBooks Online. Each of these alternatives offers distinct advantages that cater to different business needs. Conclusion In conclusion, choosing the right HR and payroll software can greatly affect your small business’s efficiency and compliance. Paycor offers excellent support, whereas ADP guarantees reliable payroll services. Gusto’s intuitive interface makes it a favorite, and QuickBooks improves payroll with integrated accounting features. Finally, OnPay provides a cost-effective solution with seamless integration. By evaluating these options, you can identify the best fit for your specific needs, ultimately streamlining your payroll processes and enhancing overall operations. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 5 HR and Payroll Software Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In relation to managing HR and payroll functions, choosing the right software can greatly influence your small business’s efficiency and compliance. The top five solutions—Paycor, ADP, Gusto, QuickBooks, and OnPay—each offer distinct advantages customized to various needs. From user-friendly interfaces to integrated accounting features, these platforms cater to different aspects of payroll management. Comprehending their strengths can help you make an informed decision for your business’s future. Let’s explore what each has to offer. Key Takeaways Paycor: Offers a comprehensive HR and payroll solution with high ratings, responsive support, and competitive pricing for small businesses. ADP: Known for reliable payroll services with automatic processing and compliance management, along with personalized HR support. Gusto: A user-friendly platform with automatic tax filing, integration with numerous applications, and exceptional customer service starting at $49/month. QuickBooks: Combines accounting with payroll processing, automating tax calculations, and offering robust support at a starting price of $50/month. OnPay: Provides an affordable flat rate for payroll services, automating processes with multi-state support and user-friendly features for easy tracking. Paycor: Best Overall for Small Businesses When you’re looking for the best HR and payroll software for small businesses, Paycor stands out due to its impressive rating of 4.8 stars, which reflects its robust core features. This HCM software offers crucial HR and payroll functionalities in both its Core and Complete packages, ensuring you receive value for your investment. Competitive pricing makes it accessible, whereas additional services like time and attendance and benefits administration can be purchased separately to tailor the solution to your needs. Paycor is likewise known for its responsive customer support, providing high-quality assistance for any inquiries or issues you might encounter. The software is designed to integrate seamlessly with other business tools, enhancing overall operational efficiency and user satisfaction. With Paycor, you can streamline your HR processes, making it an ideal choice for small businesses seeking an effective HR and payroll software solution. ADP: Trusted Payroll Provider ADP is widely recognized as a trusted provider of payroll and HR solutions, particularly with its RUN Driven by ADP platform, which is expressly designed for small businesses. This platform features automatic payroll processing and tax calculations, making it easier for you to handle your payroll tasks efficiently. Furthermore, ADP includes compliance management tools that help you navigate federal, state, and local regulations, ensuring you stay compliant with tax obligations. Moreover, the premium mobile app improves accessibility, allowing both employers and employees to manage payroll tasks on the go. The Payroll AutoPilot feature automates payroll processes, greatly reducing the likelihood of errors through AI-driven error detection. You’ll likewise benefit from personalized one-on-one support from HR professionals, who provide customized assistance for your unique payroll and HR needs. With ADP, you can streamline your payroll management while ensuring accuracy and compliance. Gusto: User-Friendly HR and Payroll Solution Gusto stands out as a user-friendly HR and payroll solution designed particularly for small businesses, making it a top choice for those seeking efficiency and reliability. Rated as the #1 software for small businesses in 2024, Gusto starts at $49 per month plus $6 per employee, focusing on saving time and reducing payroll errors. The platform offers features like automatic tax filing, unlimited payroll support, and an intuitive interface suitable for both novice and experienced payroll managers. With integration capabilities exceeding 100 applications, including popular accounting software like QuickBooks, Gusto improves functionality for small businesses. Users likewise enjoy dedicated onboarding support across all packages, ensuring a smooth start. Gusto is recognized for its outstanding customer service, providing assistance through phone, email, and web chat, which helps you address any inquiries quickly and efficiently. This thorough support makes Gusto a reliable option for managing HR and payroll needs effectively. QuickBooks: Integrated Accounting and Payroll For small businesses looking for an extensive solution, QuickBooks offers integrated accounting and payroll management features that streamline financial processes. The software automates payroll processing, tax calculations, and compliance support directly within the accounting platform, simplifying your financial tasks. With time tracking integrations, you can effectively manage employee hours and payroll calculations, which saves you time and reduces errors. QuickBooks Payroll starts at $50 per month, with an additional $6 per employee, making it an affordable choice for thorough financial management. You’ll appreciate the robust customer support options, including phone-based assistance during business hours and 24/7 chat support from payroll experts. Significantly, QuickBooks is designed for ease of use, making it suitable for both novice and experienced payroll managers. By choosing QuickBooks, you’re ensuring a seamless integration of accounting and payroll functions that can improve your business efficiency. OnPay: Affordable and Efficient Payroll Management Regarding payroll management, OnPay stands out as an affordable and efficient option for small businesses. With a flat rate of $36 per month, plus $4 for each employee, it offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. OnPay automates payroll processing, including multi-state payroll support and precise tax calculations, which helps you remain compliant and minimizes the risk of penalties. The platform features a user-friendly dashboard, enabling you to easily track payroll statuses and access electronic storage for employee documents. Moreover, OnPay provides dedicated onboarding support at no extra charge, assisting you with initial data entry and setup. This makes the shift to their system smooth and straightforward. In addition, OnPay integrates seamlessly with various accounting and time-tracking software, enhancing the overall efficiency of your payroll management. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best HR and Payroll Software? When choosing the best HR and payroll software, consider your business size and needs. Paycor is excellent for small businesses, whereas Gusto stands out for payroll ease. For larger operations, SAP SuccessFactors offers advanced features, including AI-assisted screening. OnPay simplifies payroll processes with its user-friendly interface, and ADP Run provides robust reporting for growing companies. Evaluate these options based on functionality, pricing, and support to find the best fit for your organization. Which Software Is Best for HR? When choosing the best HR software, consider your business size and specific needs. Paycor is an excellent option for small businesses, offering crucial HR features. For thorough tools, GoCo provides payroll and employee engagement capabilities. If you’re in a midsize or large business, SAP SuccessFactors’ AI-assisted features stand out. UKG and Zoho People likewise deliver solid HR functionalities. Evaluate your requirements to find the right software that meets your organization’s demands. What Is the Best Software for Payroll? When considering the best payroll software, you’ll find several strong options. Gusto offers robust features, including automatic tax filing, starting at $49 plus $6 per employee. OnPay is user-friendly and affordable, in addition beginning at $49. If you use QuickBooks, QuickBooks Payroll integrates seamlessly for $50 plus $6. For growing businesses, Paycor provides extensive features at $99, whereas Patriot Payroll is the most budget-friendly at $37 plus $5, ensuring crucial payroll processing. Who Is Adp’s Biggest Competitor? ADP’s biggest competitor is Gusto, known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features customized for small businesses. Gusto’s pricing starts at $49 per month, plus $6 per employee, making it an attractive option. Other notable competitors include Paycor, which has a strong rating and competitive pricing, and QuickBooks Payroll, favored for seamless integration with QuickBooks Online. Each of these alternatives offers distinct advantages that cater to different business needs. Conclusion In conclusion, choosing the right HR and payroll software can greatly affect your small business’s efficiency and compliance. Paycor offers excellent support, whereas ADP guarantees reliable payroll services. Gusto’s intuitive interface makes it a favorite, and QuickBooks improves payroll with integrated accounting features. Finally, OnPay provides a cost-effective solution with seamless integration. By evaluating these options, you can identify the best fit for your specific needs, ultimately streamlining your payroll processes and enhancing overall operations. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 5 HR and Payroll Software Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Competition that impacted margins and prepayments in excess of expectations were challenges during the period, but executives report first quarter improvement. View the full article

Key Takeaways Definition of Low Overhead Business: Focuses on minimizing operational costs to enhance profitability, primarily through remote work and strategic staffing solutions. Flexibility and Scalability: Low overhead models allow businesses to adapt quickly to market demands without the burden of high fixed costs, thus enabling agile operations. Cost Efficiency Strategies: Implementing cloud-based tools, utilizing a remote workforce, and minimizing physical resources contribute to significant reductions in overall costs. Types of Low Overhead Businesses: Popular options include online businesses (e.g., e-commerce, online tutoring) and service-based businesses (e.g., freelancing, virtual assistance) that require minimal investment. Challenges in Maintaining Quality: Balancing cost-efficiency with the need for high-quality service and customer satisfaction is crucial for sustaining a low overhead business model. Importance of Employee Management: Effective recruitment, training, and retention strategies are essential for fostering a motivated workforce, which ultimately supports long-term success in a competitive landscape. In today’s fast-paced economy, starting a business with low overhead can be a game-changer. This approach allows you to minimize expenses while maximizing profits, making it an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking to launch a side hustle or a full-fledged venture, understanding the principles of low overhead can set you on the path to success. Imagine running a business where your costs are kept to a minimum, giving you the flexibility to adapt and grow. From leveraging technology to embracing remote work, there are countless strategies to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. In this article, you’ll discover practical tips and insights to help you create a thriving low overhead business that stands out in a competitive market. Understanding Low Overhead Business Low overhead businesses focus on minimizing operational costs to enhance profitability. Such businesses often require fewer resources while leveraging technology and remote work to maintain quality and efficiency. Definition and Key Concepts A low overhead business operates with minimal fixed and variable costs. Essential concepts include: Remote Workforce: Utilizes part-time or full-time employees working from various locations, reducing expenses related to physical office spaces. Staffing Solutions: Employs strategic staffing that includes hiring temporary staff and leveraging staffing agencies to meet fluctuating demands. Employee Management: Focuses on efficient employee retention strategies, fostering a culture of engagement and satisfaction. Recruitment Process: Includes streamlined job postings, direct candidate screening, and clear job descriptions for attracting the right talent. Importance in Today’s Market In today’s competitive market, low overhead businesses adapt quickly to changing conditions. Key advantages include: Reduced Labor Costs: Flexible staffing options, such as using part-time employees or temporary staff, lower expenses while still meeting staffing requirements. Efficiency in Operations: Implementation of HR tools facilitates effective onboarding, training, and employee development, leading to enhanced employee performance without high costs. Attracting Talent: Competitive compensation and employee wellness initiatives improve employee motivation and promote a diverse talent pool. Low overhead businesses thrive by maintaining a sharp focus on cost efficiency while creating a positive, productive environment for employees. Advantages of Low Overhead Businesses Low overhead businesses offer many advantages, especially for small business owners. By minimizing costs, you create opportunities for higher profits and operational efficiency. Cost Efficiency A low overhead approach leads to significant cost efficiency. You reduce financial risk by investing less upfront, allowing for easier adjustments if things don’t go as planned. Lower operating expenses come from minimizing rent, utilities, insurance, and administrative costs. Consider strategies like sharing office space, negotiating better lease terms, and utilizing cloud-based software. These practices not only cut costs but also enhance profitability by allocating resources more effectively. Furthermore, you can optimize your hiring strategy by focusing on part-time employees or a remote workforce, reducing labor costs while maintaining productivity. Flexibility and Scalability Flexibility and scalability are vital in today’s fast-paced market. Low overhead models allow you to adjust your operations quickly based on market demands. Without the burden of high fixed costs, you can experiment with different staffing solutions. For instance, hiring temporary staff during peak seasons keeps your services agile. Additionally, your recruitment process can focus on attracting a diverse talent pool without overspending. Emphasizing employee retention and engagement fosters a positive workplace culture, ensuring you keep skilled workers satisfied and motivated. By streamlining HR policies and utilizing recruitment software, you enhance your organization’s overall performance while effectively managing your staffing requirements. Types of Low Overhead Businesses Understanding the types of low overhead businesses helps you find the right model that aligns with your skills and resources. Options include various online and service-based businesses that require minimal investment and upkeep. Online Businesses Online businesses represent a significant opportunity to minimize overhead costs. Examples include: Online Store: Launch an online store using ecommerce platforms like Shopify. Design your store with customizable themes, utilize secure payment gateways, and access detailed inventory and customer behavior reports. Get started with an investment as low as $1,000[4]. Online Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, you can offer online tutoring services. This business requires only a computer and internet connection. Set competitive rates to appeal to students and parents alike[4][5]. Affiliate Marketing: Partnering with businesses allows you to sell their products through your online platform. This approach has minimal upfront costs and can be managed entirely online, which makes it an attractive option for many[4][5]. Social Media Management: Provide social media marketing services to local businesses. You can assist them with content creation, developing posting schedules, and crafting engagement strategies. This service can help businesses grow their online presence with minimal investment[4]. Service-Based Businesses Service-based businesses often rely on personal skills and expertise, minimizing the need for physical resources. Consider the following: Freelancing: Offer your expertise in writing, design, or consulting on a freelance basis. You control your schedule and work location, which reduces your operational costs significantly. Home Cleaning Services: Start a home cleaning service with basic equipment, and market your skills through local platforms. Employee management becomes key as you may need to recruit temporary staff to manage workloads during busy seasons. Virtual Assistance: Provide administrative support to businesses remotely. Responsibilities can include handling emails, scheduling appointments, and managing customer inquiries. Training and onboarding processes can be streamlined to ensure effective workforce planning. Digital Marketing Consulting: Use your marketing knowledge to help businesses grow their online presence. This role can involve team building, employee development, and offering insights on job postings and recruitment strategies for your clients. Starting a low overhead business can significantly reduce financial risk while allowing you to adapt to market demands. Focusing on effective employee management and streamlined operational processes enhances your potential for success in a competitive landscape. Strategies for Starting a Low Overhead Business Starting a low overhead business involves strategic planning and execution. You can achieve profitability with minimal expenses by focusing on the right niche and utilizing modern technology. Identifying the Right Niche Leverage Your Skills: Focus on areas where you possess skills or expertise. For instance, if you excel in accounting or digital marketing, offer these services to individuals or businesses while keeping startup costs low. Market Demand: Identify niches with high demand and low competition. Virtual assistants, social media management, and online tutoring are examples of services in high demand that require minimal investment. Passion-Based Businesses: Consider businesses tied to your passions, such as yoga or baking. Offering virtual classes or downloadable resources can generate income without significant overhead. Utilizing Technology and Online Tools Adopt Cloud-Based Software: Implementing cloud-based solutions reduces costs associated with physical infrastructure. Tools for project management, customer relationship management, and accounting can streamline operations. Remote Workforce: Hiring remote workers minimizes labor costs. Utilize online platforms for recruiting, onboarding, and employee management, reducing the need for physical office space. Recruitment Software: Use recruitment software to enhance the hiring process. This can improve your talent acquisition strategy, streamline job postings, and facilitate candidate screening. Staff Management Tools: Employee scheduling and performance review tools can improve workforce planning and enhance employee engagement. These tools help track staff productivity and foster a positive workplace culture. HR Tools for Compliance: Stay compliant with labor laws and regulations using HR tools that assist in payroll, employee benefits, and training. This reduces the risk of costly violations and builds employee satisfaction. By employing these strategies, you can successfully navigate the landscape of low overhead businesses, ensuring a sustainable and profitable operation. Challenges Faced by Low Overhead Businesses Managing a low overhead business presents unique challenges that can affect your operation’s sustainability and success. These challenges, if not addressed properly, can hinder growth and profitability. Competition and Market Saturation Competition in today’s market is intense. Many low overhead businesses struggle against saturated markets where similar products or services abound. Standing out requires a solid recruitment strategy to attract skilled personnel who can deliver exceptional service. Employing targeted job postings can help you identify top talent, ensuring your business remains competitive. Stay informed about hiring trends and candidate preferences to position your business effectively in the job market. Maintaining Quality and Customer Satisfaction Maintaining product quality and customer satisfaction poses a significant challenge when keeping overhead costs low. Reducing administrative roles or cutting back on staff can impact service quality. Retaining a skilled remote workforce ensures consistency, but requires effective employee management and support during onboarding and training. Establish a culture focused on employee engagement and recognition to boost morale. Implementing structured performance reviews and providing opportunities for employee development can enhance employee motivation and satisfaction, leading to loyal customers who appreciate your commitment to quality. Balancing cost efficiency while investing in employee growth creates a foundation for long-term success. Conclusion Embracing a low overhead business model can be a game changer for your entrepreneurial journey. By focusing on minimizing costs and leveraging technology you can enhance profitability while maintaining flexibility. This approach not only reduces financial risk but also allows you to adapt quickly to market changes. As you explore opportunities in this space remember that strategic planning and effective employee management are key. Whether you choose an online venture or a service-based business the potential for success is within your reach. Prioritize quality and customer satisfaction to build a loyal clientele and ensure long-term growth. Frequently Asked Questions What are the advantages of starting a low overhead business? Low overhead businesses minimize operational costs, which enhances profitability. This model allows entrepreneurs to allocate resources more effectively, adapt quickly to market demands, and attract top talent with competitive compensation. Additionally, reduced financial risk is a significant advantage, making it suitable for both side hustles and full-fledged ventures. How can technology help in minimizing overhead costs? Technology helps by streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. Cloud-based software and digital tools reduce administrative expenses and allow remote work, which lowers costs associated with office spaces. Utilizing technology also improves communication, staff management, and recruitment, contributing to a more cost-effective business model. What types of businesses typically have low overhead costs? Common examples of low overhead businesses include online stores, freelance services, and digital marketing agencies. Other options are online tutoring, affiliate marketing, and social media management, which often require minimal investments and upkeep, making them ideal for entrepreneurs seeking low startup costs. What strategies can I use to start a low overhead business? Start by identifying your niche based on personal skills and market demand. Utilize technology, engage a remote workforce, and streamline operations through cloud-based tools. Strategic planning is essential, and focusing on flexibility and scalability will help your business adapt to changing market conditions. What challenges do low overhead businesses face? Low overhead businesses can encounter intense competition and market saturation. Maintaining product and service quality is crucial, as reducing staff may impact customer satisfaction. To overcome these challenges, effective employee management and engagement are vital to building a loyal customer base and ensuring long-term success. Image Via Envato This article, "Start a Low Overhead Business: Strategies for Success and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Definition of Low Overhead Business: Focuses on minimizing operational costs to enhance profitability, primarily through remote work and strategic staffing solutions. Flexibility and Scalability: Low overhead models allow businesses to adapt quickly to market demands without the burden of high fixed costs, thus enabling agile operations. Cost Efficiency Strategies: Implementing cloud-based tools, utilizing a remote workforce, and minimizing physical resources contribute to significant reductions in overall costs. Types of Low Overhead Businesses: Popular options include online businesses (e.g., e-commerce, online tutoring) and service-based businesses (e.g., freelancing, virtual assistance) that require minimal investment. Challenges in Maintaining Quality: Balancing cost-efficiency with the need for high-quality service and customer satisfaction is crucial for sustaining a low overhead business model. Importance of Employee Management: Effective recruitment, training, and retention strategies are essential for fostering a motivated workforce, which ultimately supports long-term success in a competitive landscape. In today’s fast-paced economy, starting a business with low overhead can be a game-changer. This approach allows you to minimize expenses while maximizing profits, making it an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking to launch a side hustle or a full-fledged venture, understanding the principles of low overhead can set you on the path to success. Imagine running a business where your costs are kept to a minimum, giving you the flexibility to adapt and grow. From leveraging technology to embracing remote work, there are countless strategies to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality. In this article, you’ll discover practical tips and insights to help you create a thriving low overhead business that stands out in a competitive market. Understanding Low Overhead Business Low overhead businesses focus on minimizing operational costs to enhance profitability. Such businesses often require fewer resources while leveraging technology and remote work to maintain quality and efficiency. Definition and Key Concepts A low overhead business operates with minimal fixed and variable costs. Essential concepts include: Remote Workforce: Utilizes part-time or full-time employees working from various locations, reducing expenses related to physical office spaces. Staffing Solutions: Employs strategic staffing that includes hiring temporary staff and leveraging staffing agencies to meet fluctuating demands. Employee Management: Focuses on efficient employee retention strategies, fostering a culture of engagement and satisfaction. Recruitment Process: Includes streamlined job postings, direct candidate screening, and clear job descriptions for attracting the right talent. Importance in Today’s Market In today’s competitive market, low overhead businesses adapt quickly to changing conditions. Key advantages include: Reduced Labor Costs: Flexible staffing options, such as using part-time employees or temporary staff, lower expenses while still meeting staffing requirements. Efficiency in Operations: Implementation of HR tools facilitates effective onboarding, training, and employee development, leading to enhanced employee performance without high costs. Attracting Talent: Competitive compensation and employee wellness initiatives improve employee motivation and promote a diverse talent pool. Low overhead businesses thrive by maintaining a sharp focus on cost efficiency while creating a positive, productive environment for employees. Advantages of Low Overhead Businesses Low overhead businesses offer many advantages, especially for small business owners. By minimizing costs, you create opportunities for higher profits and operational efficiency. Cost Efficiency A low overhead approach leads to significant cost efficiency. You reduce financial risk by investing less upfront, allowing for easier adjustments if things don’t go as planned. Lower operating expenses come from minimizing rent, utilities, insurance, and administrative costs. Consider strategies like sharing office space, negotiating better lease terms, and utilizing cloud-based software. These practices not only cut costs but also enhance profitability by allocating resources more effectively. Furthermore, you can optimize your hiring strategy by focusing on part-time employees or a remote workforce, reducing labor costs while maintaining productivity. Flexibility and Scalability Flexibility and scalability are vital in today’s fast-paced market. Low overhead models allow you to adjust your operations quickly based on market demands. Without the burden of high fixed costs, you can experiment with different staffing solutions. For instance, hiring temporary staff during peak seasons keeps your services agile. Additionally, your recruitment process can focus on attracting a diverse talent pool without overspending. Emphasizing employee retention and engagement fosters a positive workplace culture, ensuring you keep skilled workers satisfied and motivated. By streamlining HR policies and utilizing recruitment software, you enhance your organization’s overall performance while effectively managing your staffing requirements. Types of Low Overhead Businesses Understanding the types of low overhead businesses helps you find the right model that aligns with your skills and resources. Options include various online and service-based businesses that require minimal investment and upkeep. Online Businesses Online businesses represent a significant opportunity to minimize overhead costs. Examples include: Online Store: Launch an online store using ecommerce platforms like Shopify. Design your store with customizable themes, utilize secure payment gateways, and access detailed inventory and customer behavior reports. Get started with an investment as low as $1,000[4]. Online Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, you can offer online tutoring services. This business requires only a computer and internet connection. Set competitive rates to appeal to students and parents alike[4][5]. Affiliate Marketing: Partnering with businesses allows you to sell their products through your online platform. This approach has minimal upfront costs and can be managed entirely online, which makes it an attractive option for many[4][5]. Social Media Management: Provide social media marketing services to local businesses. You can assist them with content creation, developing posting schedules, and crafting engagement strategies. This service can help businesses grow their online presence with minimal investment[4]. Service-Based Businesses Service-based businesses often rely on personal skills and expertise, minimizing the need for physical resources. Consider the following: Freelancing: Offer your expertise in writing, design, or consulting on a freelance basis. You control your schedule and work location, which reduces your operational costs significantly. Home Cleaning Services: Start a home cleaning service with basic equipment, and market your skills through local platforms. Employee management becomes key as you may need to recruit temporary staff to manage workloads during busy seasons. Virtual Assistance: Provide administrative support to businesses remotely. Responsibilities can include handling emails, scheduling appointments, and managing customer inquiries. Training and onboarding processes can be streamlined to ensure effective workforce planning. Digital Marketing Consulting: Use your marketing knowledge to help businesses grow their online presence. This role can involve team building, employee development, and offering insights on job postings and recruitment strategies for your clients. Starting a low overhead business can significantly reduce financial risk while allowing you to adapt to market demands. Focusing on effective employee management and streamlined operational processes enhances your potential for success in a competitive landscape. Strategies for Starting a Low Overhead Business Starting a low overhead business involves strategic planning and execution. You can achieve profitability with minimal expenses by focusing on the right niche and utilizing modern technology. Identifying the Right Niche Leverage Your Skills: Focus on areas where you possess skills or expertise. For instance, if you excel in accounting or digital marketing, offer these services to individuals or businesses while keeping startup costs low. Market Demand: Identify niches with high demand and low competition. Virtual assistants, social media management, and online tutoring are examples of services in high demand that require minimal investment. Passion-Based Businesses: Consider businesses tied to your passions, such as yoga or baking. Offering virtual classes or downloadable resources can generate income without significant overhead. Utilizing Technology and Online Tools Adopt Cloud-Based Software: Implementing cloud-based solutions reduces costs associated with physical infrastructure. Tools for project management, customer relationship management, and accounting can streamline operations. Remote Workforce: Hiring remote workers minimizes labor costs. Utilize online platforms for recruiting, onboarding, and employee management, reducing the need for physical office space. Recruitment Software: Use recruitment software to enhance the hiring process. This can improve your talent acquisition strategy, streamline job postings, and facilitate candidate screening. Staff Management Tools: Employee scheduling and performance review tools can improve workforce planning and enhance employee engagement. These tools help track staff productivity and foster a positive workplace culture. HR Tools for Compliance: Stay compliant with labor laws and regulations using HR tools that assist in payroll, employee benefits, and training. This reduces the risk of costly violations and builds employee satisfaction. By employing these strategies, you can successfully navigate the landscape of low overhead businesses, ensuring a sustainable and profitable operation. Challenges Faced by Low Overhead Businesses Managing a low overhead business presents unique challenges that can affect your operation’s sustainability and success. These challenges, if not addressed properly, can hinder growth and profitability. Competition and Market Saturation Competition in today’s market is intense. Many low overhead businesses struggle against saturated markets where similar products or services abound. Standing out requires a solid recruitment strategy to attract skilled personnel who can deliver exceptional service. Employing targeted job postings can help you identify top talent, ensuring your business remains competitive. Stay informed about hiring trends and candidate preferences to position your business effectively in the job market. Maintaining Quality and Customer Satisfaction Maintaining product quality and customer satisfaction poses a significant challenge when keeping overhead costs low. Reducing administrative roles or cutting back on staff can impact service quality. Retaining a skilled remote workforce ensures consistency, but requires effective employee management and support during onboarding and training. Establish a culture focused on employee engagement and recognition to boost morale. Implementing structured performance reviews and providing opportunities for employee development can enhance employee motivation and satisfaction, leading to loyal customers who appreciate your commitment to quality. Balancing cost efficiency while investing in employee growth creates a foundation for long-term success. Conclusion Embracing a low overhead business model can be a game changer for your entrepreneurial journey. By focusing on minimizing costs and leveraging technology you can enhance profitability while maintaining flexibility. This approach not only reduces financial risk but also allows you to adapt quickly to market changes. As you explore opportunities in this space remember that strategic planning and effective employee management are key. Whether you choose an online venture or a service-based business the potential for success is within your reach. Prioritize quality and customer satisfaction to build a loyal clientele and ensure long-term growth. Frequently Asked Questions What are the advantages of starting a low overhead business? Low overhead businesses minimize operational costs, which enhances profitability. This model allows entrepreneurs to allocate resources more effectively, adapt quickly to market demands, and attract top talent with competitive compensation. Additionally, reduced financial risk is a significant advantage, making it suitable for both side hustles and full-fledged ventures. How can technology help in minimizing overhead costs? Technology helps by streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. Cloud-based software and digital tools reduce administrative expenses and allow remote work, which lowers costs associated with office spaces. Utilizing technology also improves communication, staff management, and recruitment, contributing to a more cost-effective business model. What types of businesses typically have low overhead costs? Common examples of low overhead businesses include online stores, freelance services, and digital marketing agencies. Other options are online tutoring, affiliate marketing, and social media management, which often require minimal investments and upkeep, making them ideal for entrepreneurs seeking low startup costs. What strategies can I use to start a low overhead business? Start by identifying your niche based on personal skills and market demand. Utilize technology, engage a remote workforce, and streamline operations through cloud-based tools. Strategic planning is essential, and focusing on flexibility and scalability will help your business adapt to changing market conditions. What challenges do low overhead businesses face? Low overhead businesses can encounter intense competition and market saturation. Maintaining product and service quality is crucial, as reducing staff may impact customer satisfaction. To overcome these challenges, effective employee management and engagement are vital to building a loyal customer base and ensuring long-term success. Image Via Envato This article, "Start a Low Overhead Business: Strategies for Success and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Former US central bank governor Kevin Warsh favoured as the likely pickView the full article

Democrats and Republicans have two more weeks to agree measures to end heavy-handed tactics by federal agentsView the full article

Lender ‘maniacally focused’ on rebuilding its investment bank in one of its home marketsView the full article

Two of Elon Musk’s best-known companies look likely to be headed for a megamerger ahead of a mooted IPO. SpaceX, the South African entrepreneur’s space exploration firm, and xAI, the AI company he established in 2023 to challenge OpenAI, are reportedly in discussions ahead of a merger and initial public offerings. Two business entities were established in Nevada on January 21, Reuters reported, that are potentially designed to facilitate the deal. Combined, the two businesses are worth more than $1 trillion. Tesla, Bloomberg reported, could be involved as well. The IPO could happen in mid-June. Why mid-June? Because that’s a point when Jupiter and Venus will be in conjunction with one another, passing close to each other in their respective orbits, the Financial Times separately reported. June also happens to be Musk’s birth month; he’ll be 55 years old on June 28. It’s suggested that the merged entity would be looking to raise up to $50 billion, nearly twice the amount of the largest IPO in history to date (Saudi Aramco’s 2019 IPO raised $29 billion), and would be doing so at a valuation of $1.5 trillion. None of the companies in question immediately responded to requests for comment. Such a merger is big news, in part because of Musk’s name and infamy, but also because it represents the pooling of two firms that appear at first not to be connected. But there are business synergies that make sense, says Caleb Henry, director of research at Quilty Space. “I view the merger as Musk’s way to vertically integrate AI services by providing xAI with satellite infrastructure for on-orbit compute,” he says. Musk has previously said—like a number of others in the tech world—that building data centers in space will be an important part of ensuring that we’re able to meet the compute demands of the current and ongoing AI revolution, in which Musk’s xAI is playing a large role through its Grok chatbot. Getting those data centers into space, if it ever happens, would need the rockets that SpaceX has become specialized in. Payload, a digital media company focused on the business and policy of space, estimates that SpaceX made $15 billion in revenue last year, around one-third of which was from launches. (The remainder was from its Starlink satellite internet service.) “The viability of orbital data centers remains a subject of debate, but Musk is a firm believer that they are the future,” Henry acknowledges. “With that conviction in mind, it makes sense for him to merge SpaceX and xAI.” Doing so would help Musk avoid the headache of having to arrange, pay for, and plan out capacity on Earth—something xAI is already in trouble for, after the Environmental Protection Agency recently ruled that the AI company’s Colossus data center generated more electricity than was legally permitted. “Rather than having xAI pay for data centers on the ground, SpaceX can host them in orbit on the Starlink satellite constellation. XAI could get cost savings by vertically integrating with orbital data centers, similar to how Starlink saves on launch costs by being part of SpaceX,” Henry says. Not everyone is as convinced of the business case, however. “It shows Elon Musk is good at raising money on whatever the theme is at the moment,” acknowledges Edward Niedermeyer, author of Ludicrous: The Unvarnished Story of Tesla Motors and an auto industry analyst. Niedermeyer believes that the mooted move is more about puffing up both Musk’s companies in the eyes of the public. “It’s a classic Elon Musk move in the sense that I was both totally shocked by it, and then almost immediately, not at all shocked,” he says. Niedermeyer believes the merger helps both companies support one another, and potentially access more cash from a public offering that will keep them both going. “We know very little about their actual economics, because they’re privately held companies,” he says. “But what we do know is not wildly encouraging,” pointing to the fact that both repeatedly raise cash from investors, suggesting they’re not able to fund their own growth. “It looks like Elon Musk has one window to do a big IPO, and he wants to make the most of that,” Niedermeyer says. Part of the problem is that xAI’s cash burn is likely to be significant because of the demand for AI products like Grok—an issue that Musk’s AI company isn’t alone in feeling, Niedermeyer admits. On the space exploration side, Niedermeyer says that the Falcon 9 and Starship initiatives are literal moonshot projects that take a lot of cash. That’s what makes it so surprising that SpaceX could go public: Musk has previously said in 2013 that SpaceX had to remain private in order to maintain its overall mission. “I see this as a way to keep things rolling along,” he adds. But it also runs the risk of alienating some of Musk’s most ardent fans, he warns. “I’ve already seen evidence in forums that the IPO plan has been really toxic to some of the most committed parts of his fanbase. I just see this as being sort of the last big cash-in, and I genuinely don’t know where he goes from here,” Niedermeyer says. View the full article

Team building is vital in construction, where collaboration and communication are key to project success. Engaging in specific activities can improve these skills among workers. For instance, building a Lego house promotes creativity and nonverbal communication, as lifting an object requires strategic planning. Furthermore, safety trivia games reinforce important protocols. Exploring joint community service and constructing a frostbite shelter can further strengthen team dynamics. Let’s examine these activities and their benefits in detail. Key Takeaways Build a Lego house to enhance nonverbal communication and foster creativity through silent collaboration among construction workers. Organize a lifting activity where teams use strategic planning to lift a heavy object, promoting teamwork and effective communication. Conduct a safety trivia game to improve knowledge of safety protocols while encouraging competition and active participation among team members. Engage in joint community service projects to boost morale and camaraderie through meaningful contributions to local initiatives and renovations. Challenge teams to construct a frostbite shelter with limited materials, emphasizing resourcefulness, strategic planning, and trust-building among team members. Building a Lego House Building a Lego house as a team-building activity can considerably improve your team’s nonverbal communication skills. This exercise requires participants to construct a structure in silence, with each member limited to a specific number of bricks. A designated leader demonstrates the model using body language, encouraging creativity and collaboration without verbal guidance. As you engage in this construction team building activity, you’ll enrich your ability to interpret cues and work together effectively. Suitable for adults, this activity promotes teamwork among construction workers, allowing everyone to contribute equally regardless of group size. Furthermore, building a Lego house encourages problem-solving and critical thinking as teams face design challenges within a set timeframe. Lifting an Object The “Lifting an Object” activity challenges teams of four to collaboratively lift a heavy object, such as a tire, using a rope and various construction materials. This task includes a limitation on rope length, compelling you to strategize creatively and efficiently solve the problem. You’ll need to communicate effectively with your teammates, coordinating your efforts to accomplish the lift successfully. As you engage in this exercise, you’ll improve your teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. The duration of the activity can vary depending on your team’s creativity and approach, nurturing a competitive yet collaborative atmosphere. By simulating real-life construction scenarios, this exercise deepens your comprehension of safety protocols and the importance of teamwork in the field. Safety Trivia Game Engaging in a Safety Trivia Game can greatly improve your team’s comprehension of essential safety protocols in the construction industry. This game is designed to test participants’ knowledge of safety regulations, making it both relevant and engaging for workers. You can accommodate large teams by dividing them into smaller groups, promoting competition and collaboration. Teams can record their answers on paper, phones, or whiteboards, offering flexibility in response tracking. Customizable trivia questions can range from Customizable Trivia company-specific safety policies to recent job site incidents, enhancing the learning experience. This approach guarantees that everyone isn’t just participating but also absorbing critical information. To further motivate your team, consider awarding prizes to those with the most correct answers. This friendly competition encourages active participation in safety practices, eventually helping to create a safer work environment for everyone involved. Implementing this activity can lead to a more informed and safety-conscious workforce. Joint Community Service Participating in joint community service activities can greatly improve the sense of teamwork and camaraderie among construction workers. Engaging in these initiatives not only helps the community but also improves team dynamics and boosts mental health. When workers volunteer together, they often feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose, which can lead to improved morale. Here are some effective community service activities you might consider: Organizing neighborhood clean-ups to promote environmental awareness. Participating in charity races that raise funds for local causes. Assisting local centers with renovations or maintenance projects. Hosting workshops to share construction skills with community members. Frostbite Shelter In regard to cultivating teamwork among construction workers, the Frostbite Shelter activity stands out as a practical and engaging exercise. This challenge requires teams to construct a protective shelter using limited materials within a set time frame, emphasizing resourcefulness and creativity. Participants must collaborate effectively to design a structure that offers maximum protection, simulating real-world survival scenarios often encountered in construction. The activity improves strategic planning and communication, as team members must delegate tasks to complete the Frostbite Shelter efficiently. Frostbite Shelter can be customized for various skill levels, making it inclusive for both seasoned workers and newcomers alike. This not just develops problem-solving skills but also strengthens team dynamics and trust, crucial for successful project execution. Skill Level Task Examples Outcome Beginner Basic structure building Comprehension of teamwork Intermediate Resource management Improved planning skills Advanced Complex designs Effective leadership skills Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Team Building? The five C’s of team building are collaboration, communication, commitment, creativity, and cohesion. You cultivate collaboration by combining diverse skills to achieve shared goals. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and aligns team members. Commitment amplifies accountability, boosting productivity. Encouraging creativity allows for innovative solutions to challenges. Finally, building cohesion strengthens relationships, improving morale and satisfaction. Together, these elements create a robust foundation for any effective team, driving success and achieving project objectives efficiently. What Are Some Fun Team Building Activities for Work? You can improve workplace dynamics through various fun team-building activities. Consider hosting trivia games to boost knowledge as you cultivate a competitive spirit. Engaging in building challenges encourages collaboration and creativity, as teams work under time constraints. Fun competitions like egg drops promote strategic thinking, and quick icebreakers, such as Two Truths and a Lie, strengthen interpersonal relationships. Outdoor activities, like sandcastle wars, provide a relaxed setting to bond and improve teamwork skills effectively. What Is an Example of Teamwork in Construction? In construction, teamwork often manifests in collaborative projects, where professionals from various trades, like electricians and plumbers, unite to achieve a common goal. For instance, when you work alongside a diverse team to complete a building, each member’s expertise contributes to the project’s success. This cooperation not merely improves efficiency but additionally nurtures innovative problem-solving, leading to timely project completion and improved safety outcomes, making teamwork essential in the construction industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ8DEJ6wbn8 What Are the 7 C’s of Team Building? The 7 C’s of team building are vital for a successful group dynamic. They include Collaboration, which focuses on team efforts to reach shared goals. Communication guarantees everyone’s on the same page, reducing confusion. Cohesion nurtures unity, enhancing trust among members. Creativity encourages innovative solutions to challenges. Finally, Commitment means dedicating time and effort to the team’s success, promoting accountability and responsibility. Together, these elements create a strong foundation for effective teamwork. Conclusion Incorporating team building activities for construction workers is crucial for enhancing collaboration and communication on job sites. Activities like building a Lego house or lifting an object promote strategic planning and creativity. Engaging in a safety trivia game reinforces knowledge of protocols, whereas joint community service nurtures a sense of shared purpose. Finally, constructing a frostbite shelter encourages resourcefulness and teamwork among diverse skill levels. These activities not only strengthen team dynamics but additionally contribute to project success in the construction industry. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Effective Team Building Activities for Construction Workers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Team building is vital in construction, where collaboration and communication are key to project success. Engaging in specific activities can improve these skills among workers. For instance, building a Lego house promotes creativity and nonverbal communication, as lifting an object requires strategic planning. Furthermore, safety trivia games reinforce important protocols. Exploring joint community service and constructing a frostbite shelter can further strengthen team dynamics. Let’s examine these activities and their benefits in detail. Key Takeaways Build a Lego house to enhance nonverbal communication and foster creativity through silent collaboration among construction workers. Organize a lifting activity where teams use strategic planning to lift a heavy object, promoting teamwork and effective communication. Conduct a safety trivia game to improve knowledge of safety protocols while encouraging competition and active participation among team members. Engage in joint community service projects to boost morale and camaraderie through meaningful contributions to local initiatives and renovations. Challenge teams to construct a frostbite shelter with limited materials, emphasizing resourcefulness, strategic planning, and trust-building among team members. Building a Lego House Building a Lego house as a team-building activity can considerably improve your team’s nonverbal communication skills. This exercise requires participants to construct a structure in silence, with each member limited to a specific number of bricks. A designated leader demonstrates the model using body language, encouraging creativity and collaboration without verbal guidance. As you engage in this construction team building activity, you’ll enrich your ability to interpret cues and work together effectively. Suitable for adults, this activity promotes teamwork among construction workers, allowing everyone to contribute equally regardless of group size. Furthermore, building a Lego house encourages problem-solving and critical thinking as teams face design challenges within a set timeframe. Lifting an Object The “Lifting an Object” activity challenges teams of four to collaboratively lift a heavy object, such as a tire, using a rope and various construction materials. This task includes a limitation on rope length, compelling you to strategize creatively and efficiently solve the problem. You’ll need to communicate effectively with your teammates, coordinating your efforts to accomplish the lift successfully. As you engage in this exercise, you’ll improve your teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. The duration of the activity can vary depending on your team’s creativity and approach, nurturing a competitive yet collaborative atmosphere. By simulating real-life construction scenarios, this exercise deepens your comprehension of safety protocols and the importance of teamwork in the field. Safety Trivia Game Engaging in a Safety Trivia Game can greatly improve your team’s comprehension of essential safety protocols in the construction industry. This game is designed to test participants’ knowledge of safety regulations, making it both relevant and engaging for workers. You can accommodate large teams by dividing them into smaller groups, promoting competition and collaboration. Teams can record their answers on paper, phones, or whiteboards, offering flexibility in response tracking. Customizable trivia questions can range from Customizable Trivia company-specific safety policies to recent job site incidents, enhancing the learning experience. This approach guarantees that everyone isn’t just participating but also absorbing critical information. To further motivate your team, consider awarding prizes to those with the most correct answers. This friendly competition encourages active participation in safety practices, eventually helping to create a safer work environment for everyone involved. Implementing this activity can lead to a more informed and safety-conscious workforce. Joint Community Service Participating in joint community service activities can greatly improve the sense of teamwork and camaraderie among construction workers. Engaging in these initiatives not only helps the community but also improves team dynamics and boosts mental health. When workers volunteer together, they often feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose, which can lead to improved morale. Here are some effective community service activities you might consider: Organizing neighborhood clean-ups to promote environmental awareness. Participating in charity races that raise funds for local causes. Assisting local centers with renovations or maintenance projects. Hosting workshops to share construction skills with community members. Frostbite Shelter In regard to cultivating teamwork among construction workers, the Frostbite Shelter activity stands out as a practical and engaging exercise. This challenge requires teams to construct a protective shelter using limited materials within a set time frame, emphasizing resourcefulness and creativity. Participants must collaborate effectively to design a structure that offers maximum protection, simulating real-world survival scenarios often encountered in construction. The activity improves strategic planning and communication, as team members must delegate tasks to complete the Frostbite Shelter efficiently. Frostbite Shelter can be customized for various skill levels, making it inclusive for both seasoned workers and newcomers alike. This not just develops problem-solving skills but also strengthens team dynamics and trust, crucial for successful project execution. Skill Level Task Examples Outcome Beginner Basic structure building Comprehension of teamwork Intermediate Resource management Improved planning skills Advanced Complex designs Effective leadership skills Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Team Building? The five C’s of team building are collaboration, communication, commitment, creativity, and cohesion. You cultivate collaboration by combining diverse skills to achieve shared goals. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and aligns team members. Commitment amplifies accountability, boosting productivity. Encouraging creativity allows for innovative solutions to challenges. Finally, building cohesion strengthens relationships, improving morale and satisfaction. Together, these elements create a robust foundation for any effective team, driving success and achieving project objectives efficiently. What Are Some Fun Team Building Activities for Work? You can improve workplace dynamics through various fun team-building activities. Consider hosting trivia games to boost knowledge as you cultivate a competitive spirit. Engaging in building challenges encourages collaboration and creativity, as teams work under time constraints. Fun competitions like egg drops promote strategic thinking, and quick icebreakers, such as Two Truths and a Lie, strengthen interpersonal relationships. Outdoor activities, like sandcastle wars, provide a relaxed setting to bond and improve teamwork skills effectively. What Is an Example of Teamwork in Construction? In construction, teamwork often manifests in collaborative projects, where professionals from various trades, like electricians and plumbers, unite to achieve a common goal. For instance, when you work alongside a diverse team to complete a building, each member’s expertise contributes to the project’s success. This cooperation not merely improves efficiency but additionally nurtures innovative problem-solving, leading to timely project completion and improved safety outcomes, making teamwork essential in the construction industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ8DEJ6wbn8 What Are the 7 C’s of Team Building? The 7 C’s of team building are vital for a successful group dynamic. They include Collaboration, which focuses on team efforts to reach shared goals. Communication guarantees everyone’s on the same page, reducing confusion. Cohesion nurtures unity, enhancing trust among members. Creativity encourages innovative solutions to challenges. Finally, Commitment means dedicating time and effort to the team’s success, promoting accountability and responsibility. Together, these elements create a strong foundation for effective teamwork. Conclusion Incorporating team building activities for construction workers is crucial for enhancing collaboration and communication on job sites. Activities like building a Lego house or lifting an object promote strategic planning and creativity. Engaging in a safety trivia game reinforces knowledge of protocols, whereas joint community service nurtures a sense of shared purpose. Finally, constructing a frostbite shelter encourages resourcefulness and teamwork among diverse skill levels. These activities not only strengthen team dynamics but additionally contribute to project success in the construction industry. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Effective Team Building Activities for Construction Workers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

IDEAS shared have the power to expand perspectives, change thinking, and move lives. Here are two ideas for the curious mind to engage with: I. Heidi Grant on feedback: “What happens when people lack a feeling of effectiveness? In the short term, it wipes out motivation. Research shows that when people are unable get any kind of feedback about how well they are doing on a task, they quickly become disengaged from it.” Source: Reinforcements: How to Get People to Help You II. Simon Sinek on trust: “Leading is not the same as being the leader. Being the leader means you hold the highest rank, either by earning it, good fortune or navigating internal politics. Leading, however, means that others willingly follow you—not because they have to, not because they are paid to, but because they want to.” Source: Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action * * * Look for these ideas every Thursday on the Leading Blog. Find more ideas on the LeadingThoughts index. * * * Follow us on Instagram and X for additional leadership and personal development ideas. View the full article

Science fiction and science leaders alike have warned us that artificial intelligence may one day take over the world, but until those predictions come to pass, generative AI's biggest impact on my life has been overloading my social media feeds with slop. It seems I can't open TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube without running smack into bizarre and troubling AI concoctions featuring babies in danger and cats having affairs. It really is the wild west (or maybe Westworld) out there. I think few among us really believe these videos are any good, and it's pretty obvious they aren't good for us, or for the world. Short-form video is already numbing enough, but this AI content is generally completely devoid of any meaning or substance. And yet, it's everywhere. I haven't spent too much time on YouTube Shorts recently, but in my limited experience, the feed has been chock full of AI, especially if I'm logged out of my personal account. Still, if you're a dedicated YouTube Shorts user (or a frequent YouTube user in general) you might have noticed something odd in recent days: There don't seem to be quite as many AI videos on the platform right now. There are still a lot, don't get me wrong, but it turns out YouTube has recently taken action to remove some of its AI content—the sloppiest of the slop. YouTube's war on AI slopAndroid Police spotted the development on Wednesday, basing its findings on a November report from Kapwing, a company that develops an online video editor. Kapwing investigated AI slop across YouTube's vast content library, noting the top 100 most-subscribed YouTube channels that publish this sort of AI content. In the two months since that report, Android Police noticed that 16 of those 100 channels are no longer with us. That includes the most popular AI channel on YouTube, at least according to Kapwing. "CuentosFacianantes" had 5.95 million subscribers at the time of their initial report, and produced AI-generated shorts inspired by Dragon Ball. The channel had amassed roughly 1.28 billion views by the end of last year; despite launching in 2020, it had curated its library to begin Jan. 8, 2025, so those numbers were racked up pretty recently. The number two channel, "Imperio de Jesus" with 5.87 million subscribers, and the number seven channel "Super Cat League," with 4.21 million subscribers, were also shut down. According to Android Police, the 16 channels in question had a total of 35 million subscribers and over 4.7 billion views across their collective videos. Some of these channels are completely gone, while others simply have had their videos removed. Why is YouTube removing AI slop?YouTube CEO Neal Mohan published a post on Jan. 21 of this year describing the company's vision for 2026. Towards the end of that letter, he acknowledges AI content, predicting that, "AI will be a boon to the creatives who are ready to lean in," and comparing it to tools like Photoshop and CGI, adding "AI will remain a tool for expression, not a replacement." However, Mohan was also critical of the technology, noting that it's becoming more difficult to tell real videos from AI. He notes that YouTube is now removing "any harmful synthetic media that violates our Community Guidelines," and is giving creators tools to help identify and block deepfakes. More interestingly, the letter includes a section labeled "Managing AI slop," which is the first time I've seen a company like YouTube use that expression. Mohan says that YouTube's goal is to be a place where free expression thrives, but also a place "where people feel good spending their time." To that point, he says, "To reduce the spread of low quality AI content, we’re actively building on our established systems that have been very successful in combatting spam and clickbait, and reducing the spread of low quality, repetitive content." Mohan doesn't call out any accounts by name, nor does he acknowledge the accounts and content the company has already deleted, but it's a clear line in the sand: YouTube is not against AI-generated content, but it will remove low-quality AI content it feels is, well, slop. That's good news for anyone who uses YouTube (so, pretty much everyone), even if it's far from a cure for the growing problem. I've reached out to YouTube for comment on this story, and will update this piece if I hear back. View the full article

In terms of community management, choosing the right tools can greatly improve engagement and interaction. Sprout Social and Agorapulse are excellent for social media management, whereas Khoros and Bettermode offer extensive customization for enterprises. Platforms like Mighty Networks and Discourse create unique spaces for discussions and networking. Each of these tools has its strengths, and comprehending their features can help you select the best fit for your needs. Let’s explore these options further. Key Takeaways Sprout Social offers real-time notifications and analytics tools for enhanced audience engagement and strategic assessment of social media interactions. Agorapulse provides tailored community management features, including automated responses and detailed analytics, ideal for small to mid-market businesses. Khoros delivers an enterprise-level platform with extensive customization options, content moderation tools, and integration capabilities for community managers. Mighty Networks enables organizations to create branded community hubs, fostering multi-channel communication and driving member resource sharing. Discourse focuses on meaningful conversations in customizable forums, offering gamification elements and robust analytics to track user engagement. Sprout Social Sprout Social stands out as a thorough social media management platform that integrates community management features aimed at improving audience engagement. This community management system offers real-time notifications for comments, replies, and messages, allowing you to respond quickly to community interactions. Its robust social media analytics tools track engagement metrics, helping you assess the effectiveness of your community management strategies and optimize future content. Additionally, Sprout Social’s team collaboration tools streamline community management workflows, enabling efficient handling of conversations and reducing response times. The platform supports various social media management services, making it easier for your team to stay connected and engaged with your audience. Plus, you can take advantage of a free trial social media management to explore its features, such as Instagram integration, without immediate financial commitment. Agorapulse Agorapulse stands out as a thorough community management tool customized for small to mid-market businesses. It offers key features like social media monitoring, scheduled posts, and detailed analytics to help you engage effectively with your audience. With various pricing plans available, Agorapulse provides options that can fit different budgets, making it an attractive choice for those looking to improve their social media management strategies. Key Features Overview When managing a community, having the right tools can greatly increase your efficiency and effectiveness. Agorapulse stands out as a strong community management tool, offering crucial features for automated social media growth. With its robust social media listening features, you can gain insights into audience sentiment and engagement trends, enabling you to tailor your responses. It allows you to schedule posts and manage comments seamlessly, helping you streamline workflow. Moreover, Agorapulse provides performance metrics that measure engagement rates and track user interactions, ensuring you stay informed about your community’s health. Plus, its automated responses for frequently asked questions improve customer interactions, allowing your team to focus on more complex queries, eventually boosting overall engagement. Pricing and Plans Grasping the pricing and plans for Agorapulse is crucial for determining whether it aligns with your community management needs. Agorapulse offers several pricing plans, starting at $99 per month for the Pro plan, which includes key community management features suitable for small to mid-market businesses. The Premium plan, priced at $199 per month, adds advanced reporting and social listening tools. For larger organizations, the Enterprise plan features customized pricing and dedicated account management designed to your unique operational needs. Each Agorapulse pricing plan includes a 28-day free trial, allowing you to explore the platform’s capabilities. Flexible payment options, including monthly and annual subscriptions, improve cost-effectiveness, especially with discounts available for annual commitments, making it a practical choice among social media management tools. Khoros Khoros stands out as an enterprise-level platform that offers extensive customization options for managing branded community forums. Although it includes vital content moderation tools to facilitate peer-to-peer support, many users find its overall experience somewhat outdated and clunky. Comprehending these aspects can help you determine if Khoros aligns with your community management needs. Customization Options Available Many organizations find that Khoros offers extensive customization options for community forums, allowing them to tailor the appearance and functionality of their spaces to align with branding and user preferences. With Khoros, you can boost member engagement through various features: Customizable user profiles that let members showcase their interests. Unique discussion categories for organized and relevant conversations. Gamification elements, like badges and leaderboards, to motivate member participation. Custom reporting to track engagement metrics aligned with community goals. Tailored conversations based on specific interests and needs. These robust customization options serve as effective community management tools, helping you create a more engaging environment that encourages active member participation and achieves your community goals. Content Moderation Tools When managing an online community, effective content moderation is crucial for cultivating a positive and engaging environment. Khoros offers robust content moderation tools as part of its community management solutions, enabling you to oversee discussions and guarantee compliance with community guidelines. These tools facilitate peer-to-peer support, allowing members to share knowledge and resolve issues collaboratively. Khoros integrates seamlessly with major CRM and ITSM systems, enhancing workflow integration for community managers. Furthermore, its analytics capabilities provide valuable insights into member engagement and community health, helping you with performance tracking. By creating branded community forums, Khoros promotes a customized user experience, strengthening the sense of community among members during the maintenance of a safe and respectful space for discussions. User Experience Challenges User experience challenges in community management often arise from the intricacies of maneuvering various features and tools. With community management software like Khoros, you may encounter issues related to user engagement and satisfaction. To improve your experience, consider these factors: Peer-to-peer support promotes interaction among users. Knowledge sharing helps users find answers quickly. Social media analytics enable performance tracking. Customer interaction management streamlines communication. Community-driven engagement encourages authentic connections. Khoros offers robust analytics to monitor engagement and satisfaction, helping you identify areas for improvement. By integrating seamlessly with CRM systems, it augments the user experience, ensuring that your community remains lively and active. Utilizing effective engagement tools can greatly mitigate these challenges. Bettermode Bettermode stands out as a versatile community management platform designed to encourage engagement among members through a variety of robust features. This platform improves user engagement by offering customizable profiles, allowing individuals to tailor their experience and nurture personal connections. Bettermode supports both public and private channels, ensuring secure and organized conversations among community members. With its discussion forums, polls, and event calendars, users can engage in meaningful interactions and share valuable resources effectively. For community managers, Bettermode includes thorough analytics tools to track engagement metrics, helping to identify participation trends and optimize strategies accordingly. Furthermore, the platform’s integration capabilities allow organizations to streamline community management processes, improving overall functionality. By leveraging these community management tools, you can create an engaging environment that promotes collaboration and active participation among members, making it an effective choice for cultivating dynamic online communities. Hivebrite Hivebrite serves as an all-encompassing community management platform that empowers organizations to build branded online communities customized to their specific needs. This tool improves member engagement through various features that support event management, resource sharing, and professional networking. Key aspects of Hivebrite include: User moderation to maintain community standards. An analytics dashboard that provides insights into member interactions and engagement metrics. Tools for tracking community health and adapting strategies for improvement. Monetization options to generate revenue through membership fees and sponsorships. Promoting active participation among members, nurturing a lively community atmosphere. Hivebrite effectively caters to diverse sectors, including non-profits and associations, improving overall member experiences. Mighty Networks Mighty Networks allows organizations to create branded community hubs that promote engagement and collaboration among members. This platform excels in community management by providing customizable features customized to your specific needs, enhancing member interactions. With its multi-channel communication capabilities, members can engage via web, mobile, and social media, ensuring broad accessibility. Mighty Networks additionally includes robust analytics and reporting tools that help community leaders track engagement metrics, facilitating data-driven decision-making. The ease of use is a standout aspect, allowing both community managers and members to navigate the platform effortlessly. By nurturing a sense of belonging, Mighty Networks encourages members to share resources and participate in events, ultimately driving higher engagement. Whether you’re hosting courses or managing discussions, this tool is designed to optimize the community experience, making it a valuable asset for any organization aiming to strengthen member connections. Discourse When you’re looking to cultivate meaningful conversations within a community, Discourse stands out as an open-source platform designed for creating customizable discussion forums. This community engagement platform offers a wide range of features that improve user interaction and support community growth. Extensive moderation tools help maintain a healthy environment. Rich content creation capabilities allow embedding images, videos, and links. Gamification features, like badges and trust levels, incentivize participation. Robust analytics and reporting tools track user activity and engagement metrics. Customizable discussion forums cater to specific community needs. With Discourse, you can effectively manage posts and users, ensuring a productive atmosphere for discussions. The platform’s focus on user engagement through gamification and detailed analytics allows community leaders to encourage meaningful conversations and monitor progress over time, making it a valuable tool for any community manager. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Steps to Effective Community Engagement? To effectively engage your community, start by defining clear goals that outline your objectives. Next, nurture a sense of belonging by creating inclusive spaces for discussion. Utilize data analytics to track participation rates and sentiment, adjusting strategies as needed. Implement a multi-channel communication approach to reach members on their preferred platforms. Finally, encourage feedback through polls, ensuring continuous refinement of your engagement tactics based on community preferences and needs. What Are the 7 Approaches to Community Development? You can explore seven key approaches to community development: asset-based, participatory planning, sustainable development, social capital building, technology integration, collective impact, and place-based strategies. Each method emphasizes unique aspects, such as leveraging existing community strengths, involving residents in decision-making, and ensuring long-term viability. What Are Community Management Tools? Community management tools are platforms that help you build, manage, and engage with your community. They typically include features like discussion forums, member directories, event management, and analytics for tracking engagement. What Are the 5 C’s of Community? The five C’s of community are connection, collaboration, communication, content, and culture. Connection nurtures relationships among members, enhancing engagement. Collaboration encourages joint projects and events, strengthening ties within the community. Communication involves sharing information through various channels, ensuring members stay informed. Content refers to providing valuable, relevant materials that meet members’ interests, promoting trust and participation. Finally, culture establishes an inclusive atmosphere, making members feel valued and supported in their contributions. Conclusion To sum up, selecting the right community management tool can greatly improve engagement and communication within your organization. Tools like Sprout Social and Agorapulse offer robust social media management features, whereas Khoros and Bettermode cater to enterprise-level needs with customization. Platforms such as Hivebrite, Mighty Networks, and Discourse provide unique functionalities that promote interaction and community building. By leveraging these tools effectively, you can create a lively community that encourages active participation and strengthens member relationships. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 Tools for Community Management to Boost Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In terms of community management, choosing the right tools can greatly improve engagement and interaction. Sprout Social and Agorapulse are excellent for social media management, whereas Khoros and Bettermode offer extensive customization for enterprises. Platforms like Mighty Networks and Discourse create unique spaces for discussions and networking. Each of these tools has its strengths, and comprehending their features can help you select the best fit for your needs. Let’s explore these options further. Key Takeaways Sprout Social offers real-time notifications and analytics tools for enhanced audience engagement and strategic assessment of social media interactions. Agorapulse provides tailored community management features, including automated responses and detailed analytics, ideal for small to mid-market businesses. Khoros delivers an enterprise-level platform with extensive customization options, content moderation tools, and integration capabilities for community managers. Mighty Networks enables organizations to create branded community hubs, fostering multi-channel communication and driving member resource sharing. Discourse focuses on meaningful conversations in customizable forums, offering gamification elements and robust analytics to track user engagement. Sprout Social Sprout Social stands out as a thorough social media management platform that integrates community management features aimed at improving audience engagement. This community management system offers real-time notifications for comments, replies, and messages, allowing you to respond quickly to community interactions. Its robust social media analytics tools track engagement metrics, helping you assess the effectiveness of your community management strategies and optimize future content. Additionally, Sprout Social’s team collaboration tools streamline community management workflows, enabling efficient handling of conversations and reducing response times. The platform supports various social media management services, making it easier for your team to stay connected and engaged with your audience. Plus, you can take advantage of a free trial social media management to explore its features, such as Instagram integration, without immediate financial commitment. Agorapulse Agorapulse stands out as a thorough community management tool customized for small to mid-market businesses. It offers key features like social media monitoring, scheduled posts, and detailed analytics to help you engage effectively with your audience. With various pricing plans available, Agorapulse provides options that can fit different budgets, making it an attractive choice for those looking to improve their social media management strategies. Key Features Overview When managing a community, having the right tools can greatly increase your efficiency and effectiveness. Agorapulse stands out as a strong community management tool, offering crucial features for automated social media growth. With its robust social media listening features, you can gain insights into audience sentiment and engagement trends, enabling you to tailor your responses. It allows you to schedule posts and manage comments seamlessly, helping you streamline workflow. Moreover, Agorapulse provides performance metrics that measure engagement rates and track user interactions, ensuring you stay informed about your community’s health. Plus, its automated responses for frequently asked questions improve customer interactions, allowing your team to focus on more complex queries, eventually boosting overall engagement. Pricing and Plans Grasping the pricing and plans for Agorapulse is crucial for determining whether it aligns with your community management needs. Agorapulse offers several pricing plans, starting at $99 per month for the Pro plan, which includes key community management features suitable for small to mid-market businesses. The Premium plan, priced at $199 per month, adds advanced reporting and social listening tools. For larger organizations, the Enterprise plan features customized pricing and dedicated account management designed to your unique operational needs. Each Agorapulse pricing plan includes a 28-day free trial, allowing you to explore the platform’s capabilities. Flexible payment options, including monthly and annual subscriptions, improve cost-effectiveness, especially with discounts available for annual commitments, making it a practical choice among social media management tools. Khoros Khoros stands out as an enterprise-level platform that offers extensive customization options for managing branded community forums. Although it includes vital content moderation tools to facilitate peer-to-peer support, many users find its overall experience somewhat outdated and clunky. Comprehending these aspects can help you determine if Khoros aligns with your community management needs. Customization Options Available Many organizations find that Khoros offers extensive customization options for community forums, allowing them to tailor the appearance and functionality of their spaces to align with branding and user preferences. With Khoros, you can boost member engagement through various features: Customizable user profiles that let members showcase their interests. Unique discussion categories for organized and relevant conversations. Gamification elements, like badges and leaderboards, to motivate member participation. Custom reporting to track engagement metrics aligned with community goals. Tailored conversations based on specific interests and needs. These robust customization options serve as effective community management tools, helping you create a more engaging environment that encourages active member participation and achieves your community goals. Content Moderation Tools When managing an online community, effective content moderation is crucial for cultivating a positive and engaging environment. Khoros offers robust content moderation tools as part of its community management solutions, enabling you to oversee discussions and guarantee compliance with community guidelines. These tools facilitate peer-to-peer support, allowing members to share knowledge and resolve issues collaboratively. Khoros integrates seamlessly with major CRM and ITSM systems, enhancing workflow integration for community managers. Furthermore, its analytics capabilities provide valuable insights into member engagement and community health, helping you with performance tracking. By creating branded community forums, Khoros promotes a customized user experience, strengthening the sense of community among members during the maintenance of a safe and respectful space for discussions. User Experience Challenges User experience challenges in community management often arise from the intricacies of maneuvering various features and tools. With community management software like Khoros, you may encounter issues related to user engagement and satisfaction. To improve your experience, consider these factors: Peer-to-peer support promotes interaction among users. Knowledge sharing helps users find answers quickly. Social media analytics enable performance tracking. Customer interaction management streamlines communication. Community-driven engagement encourages authentic connections. Khoros offers robust analytics to monitor engagement and satisfaction, helping you identify areas for improvement. By integrating seamlessly with CRM systems, it augments the user experience, ensuring that your community remains lively and active. Utilizing effective engagement tools can greatly mitigate these challenges. Bettermode Bettermode stands out as a versatile community management platform designed to encourage engagement among members through a variety of robust features. This platform improves user engagement by offering customizable profiles, allowing individuals to tailor their experience and nurture personal connections. Bettermode supports both public and private channels, ensuring secure and organized conversations among community members. With its discussion forums, polls, and event calendars, users can engage in meaningful interactions and share valuable resources effectively. For community managers, Bettermode includes thorough analytics tools to track engagement metrics, helping to identify participation trends and optimize strategies accordingly. Furthermore, the platform’s integration capabilities allow organizations to streamline community management processes, improving overall functionality. By leveraging these community management tools, you can create an engaging environment that promotes collaboration and active participation among members, making it an effective choice for cultivating dynamic online communities. Hivebrite Hivebrite serves as an all-encompassing community management platform that empowers organizations to build branded online communities customized to their specific needs. This tool improves member engagement through various features that support event management, resource sharing, and professional networking. Key aspects of Hivebrite include: User moderation to maintain community standards. An analytics dashboard that provides insights into member interactions and engagement metrics. Tools for tracking community health and adapting strategies for improvement. Monetization options to generate revenue through membership fees and sponsorships. Promoting active participation among members, nurturing a lively community atmosphere. Hivebrite effectively caters to diverse sectors, including non-profits and associations, improving overall member experiences. Mighty Networks Mighty Networks allows organizations to create branded community hubs that promote engagement and collaboration among members. This platform excels in community management by providing customizable features customized to your specific needs, enhancing member interactions. With its multi-channel communication capabilities, members can engage via web, mobile, and social media, ensuring broad accessibility. Mighty Networks additionally includes robust analytics and reporting tools that help community leaders track engagement metrics, facilitating data-driven decision-making. The ease of use is a standout aspect, allowing both community managers and members to navigate the platform effortlessly. By nurturing a sense of belonging, Mighty Networks encourages members to share resources and participate in events, ultimately driving higher engagement. Whether you’re hosting courses or managing discussions, this tool is designed to optimize the community experience, making it a valuable asset for any organization aiming to strengthen member connections. Discourse When you’re looking to cultivate meaningful conversations within a community, Discourse stands out as an open-source platform designed for creating customizable discussion forums. This community engagement platform offers a wide range of features that improve user interaction and support community growth. Extensive moderation tools help maintain a healthy environment. Rich content creation capabilities allow embedding images, videos, and links. Gamification features, like badges and trust levels, incentivize participation. Robust analytics and reporting tools track user activity and engagement metrics. Customizable discussion forums cater to specific community needs. With Discourse, you can effectively manage posts and users, ensuring a productive atmosphere for discussions. The platform’s focus on user engagement through gamification and detailed analytics allows community leaders to encourage meaningful conversations and monitor progress over time, making it a valuable tool for any community manager. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Steps to Effective Community Engagement? To effectively engage your community, start by defining clear goals that outline your objectives. Next, nurture a sense of belonging by creating inclusive spaces for discussion. Utilize data analytics to track participation rates and sentiment, adjusting strategies as needed. Implement a multi-channel communication approach to reach members on their preferred platforms. Finally, encourage feedback through polls, ensuring continuous refinement of your engagement tactics based on community preferences and needs. What Are the 7 Approaches to Community Development? You can explore seven key approaches to community development: asset-based, participatory planning, sustainable development, social capital building, technology integration, collective impact, and place-based strategies. Each method emphasizes unique aspects, such as leveraging existing community strengths, involving residents in decision-making, and ensuring long-term viability. What Are Community Management Tools? Community management tools are platforms that help you build, manage, and engage with your community. They typically include features like discussion forums, member directories, event management, and analytics for tracking engagement. What Are the 5 C’s of Community? The five C’s of community are connection, collaboration, communication, content, and culture. Connection nurtures relationships among members, enhancing engagement. Collaboration encourages joint projects and events, strengthening ties within the community. Communication involves sharing information through various channels, ensuring members stay informed. Content refers to providing valuable, relevant materials that meet members’ interests, promoting trust and participation. Finally, culture establishes an inclusive atmosphere, making members feel valued and supported in their contributions. Conclusion To sum up, selecting the right community management tool can greatly improve engagement and communication within your organization. Tools like Sprout Social and Agorapulse offer robust social media management features, whereas Khoros and Bettermode cater to enterprise-level needs with customization. Platforms such as Hivebrite, Mighty Networks, and Discourse provide unique functionalities that promote interaction and community building. By leveraging these tools effectively, you can create a lively community that encourages active participation and strengthens member relationships. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 Tools for Community Management to Boost Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Strong holiday season and boost from China leads to record revenueView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. QLED TVs are, in my opinion, a perfect sweet spot between budget TVs and OLEDs—they're a huge improvement in video quality without having to pay the thousands required for an OLED. And honestly, most people can't tell the difference between an OLED and a QLED anyway, but most people see the difference between a budget TV and a solid QLED. If you're looking for a steal on one of the best QLED TVs of 2025, the Hisense 65" Class U8GQ is $898.32 (originally $1,498) after a 40% discount, bringing it down to its lowest price ever, according to price-tracking tools. The other, bigger sizes are also seeing great discounts right now. Amazon Hisense 65" Class U8 Mini-LED $898.32 at Amazon $1,498.00 Save $599.68 Get Deal Get Deal $898.32 at Amazon $1,498.00 Save $599.68 Amazon Hisense 75" Class U8 Mini-LED $1,297.99 at Amazon $1,698.00 Save $400.01 Get Deal Get Deal $1,297.99 at Amazon $1,698.00 Save $400.01 Amazon Hisense 85" Class U8 Mini-LED $1,697.99 at Amazon $2,297.99 Save $600.00 Get Deal Get Deal $1,697.99 at Amazon $2,297.99 Save $600.00 Amazon Hisense 100" Class U8 Mini-LED $2,997.99 at Amazon $4,999.99 Save $2,002.00 Get Deal Get Deal $2,997.99 at Amazon $4,999.99 Save $2,002.00 SEE 1 MORE The Hisense U8QG is a mid-tier QLED TV that was released in April of 2025, and it's in my list of the best budget QLEDs of that year. It's a solid, well-rounded TV that will work well in bright rooms and excels for watching sports, movies, and playing video games. The brightness, black levels, and colors are its most impressive specs, as PCMag noted in its "excellent" review. This TV also has a Hi-View AI Engine Pro processor, HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on all three ports, and a USB-C display port that PC gamers can use to play directly on the TV. It can handle 4K resolution at a 165Hz refresh rate and 1080p at 288Hz. It also has support for arguably the most important HDR formats: Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The TV OS, Google TV, is my personal favorite because it lets you seamlessly cast your phone or computer directly to the TV. It also supports voice controls. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $399.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet (Silver) — $159.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

If you and your friends have the same taste in music, you probably text each other what you're listening to. I know when I stumble upon a new discovery I love—or even something I think is trash—I fire it off to the group chat to talk about it. Of course, I just forward the song to the group chat in the Messages app, like any other thing I'd want to send to that group. If you have Spotify, however, you have a new group chat option to choose from: Spotify itself. Spotify heads might already know that the app has had a messaging feature since August. While the point of the feature is to send Spotify content to your friends, it's a basic messaging service, which means you can send any text you want—including emojis. It's available to any Spotify user, whether you have Premium or just a free account, so long as you're 16 or older. None of that is new today. What is new today is the amount of people you can text at once in Spotify. Since August, chats have been limited to one-on-one interactions. Now, you're able to add up to nine other people at once to a thread. That means 10-person group chats to talk about new music, podcasts, audiobooks, or, of course, anything at all—assuming you actually want to move your DMs to Spotify. How to start a group chat on SpotifyTo start, open Spotify on mobile (this isn't supported on desktop at this time) then tap your profile in the top right corner. Look for "Messages" at the bottom of this menu, then choose "New Message." If this is your first time interacting with people on Spotify, you'll need to invite others to chat before you can craft a new message. Here, you'll have the choice to share a link to invite a friend to join your message. You can also find this option from the share menu on any piece of Spotify content, and hitting the "Invite friends" option. Once you've initiated a message, you'll be able to start crafting new ones—including group chats. Head back to this Messages menu—or hit the share button on a song, podcast, or audiobook—then choose "Create group." Here, tap any friends from the suggestions you'd like to add, then choose "Create group" again to finalize the chat. Spotify says the people that appear in the list of suggestions are those you have shared content to before, created a playlist or Blend with previously, were in a "recent" Jam together, or are on an active Family or Duo plan. If they don't appear, you can always choose the invite option to reach out directly. Whoever creates the group is officially its admin. As the admin, you have the power to add or remove anyone from the group chat. If you're in the group chat, you're labeled as a "Participant." Invited members are labeled "Pending." The admin as well as any participants are allowed to block any group chat user for any reason. The issue is, do you really want to dedicate a group chat to Spotify itself? Maybe if this feature rolled out when the app launched way back when, it'd be different. But people are set in their ways: It's so hard to get people to move chat apps, especially when it's for one specific purpose. Rather than open yet another thread to keep track of, I think I'd rather just text links to my main group chat—and I'm guessing the other members of the chat would agree. How to turn off Spotify MessagesIf you don't want to use Spotify's messaging service at all, you can leave it behind, and save yourself from getting added to all future group and one-on-one chats. To do so, tap your profile, choose "Settings and privacy," then hit "Privacy and social." Here, scroll down to "Social features" and turn off "Messages." View the full article

Microsoft stock just suffered its biggest single day drop since 2020. Meanwhile, Meta stock popped by 10%. Both tech giants are spending billions on AI talent and infrastructure, but investors clearly feel skittish about Microsoft at the start of 2026 and bullish on Meta’s tale of near-term upside. For a company that famously whiffed on the metaverse, Meta is looking more reasonable these days. The company is still poised to invest eye-popping sums into artificial intelligence in the coming years, but so are all of its peers, Microsoft included. In an era of AI hype and sky-high expectations, Meta is following the crowd—not leading it—for better or worse. In 2026, the company is building a grounded narrative around its strong revenue growth. Meta is an advertising company through and through, and in 2026, it’s emphasizing that core competency while pointing to strong revenue growth to back up the story. Meta reported $59.89 billion in revenue in the last quarter, beating Wall Street’s estimate by over $1 billion. The company said more people are using its wide family of social apps, with 7% daily active user growth year over year across its products. Mark Zuckerberg took some time in Wednesday’s earnings call to declare that he can’t imagine a world “where most glasses that people wear aren’t AI glasses” within the next few years, but at least he didn’t lead with the company’s latest cash-burning consumer hardware bet. Meta’s AI spending green light The Menlo Park tech giant’s investment in AI is only growing. In 2026, Meta expects to splash out between $115 billion and $135 billion in capital expenditures, way up from the $72.22 billion it spent across 2025. Meta says the increase will largely be driven by upped investment into Meta Superintelligence Labs, its AI division. “We’re in this interesting period where we’ve been rebuilding our AI effort, and we’re six months into that, and I’m happy with how it’s going,” Zuckerberg said. Meta is bullish on its near-future revenue, too. The company is expecting to bring in between $53.5 and $56.5 billion next quarter. On its earnings call, executives highlighted how weaving AI into its existing products is explicitly boosting its ad business. “There are several major business opportunities that we’re focused on . . . one is just going to be improving the core products and accelerating the current business,” Zuckerberg said, noting that Meta’s products are already benefitting from AI integration into their recommendation engines. The company says that advertisers are responding to ad performance improvements already, and those successes are driving conversion growth—and revenue. Investors took note, the stock popped and the company’s narrative about where all that AI spend will go seems to make sense to the market, at least for now. Microsoft’s story is complicated Investors seem to appreciate that Meta is eating its vegetables and bolstering its ad business these days, but Microsoft is a different story. Microsoft, once the boring PC company, is on the cutting edge of the AI boom. The company handily beat expectations in its own earnings report this week, notching $81.3 billion in quarterly revenue – a 16% year over year increase. Its net income bested expectations too. So what went wrong? If investors are worried about being over indexed on Microsoft, Microsoft may be worried about being in too deep with OpenAI. The tech stalwart’s AI bets are complex due to being bound up with OpenAI, which the larger company has invested more than $11 billion into to date. Microsoft’s latest earnings were buoyed by OpenAI’s transformation into a more traditional for-profit company, which Microsoft will own a 27% stake in, valued at $135 billion. That investment delivered Microsoft $7.6 billion in net income in the last quarter. Microsoft increasingly competes with its longtime partner, but remains worryingly dependent on it at the same time. The company is holding onto an astronomical $625 billion backlog in pent up demand for its cloud computing business, but just disclosed that OpenAI accounts for 45% of those outstanding cloud contracts. If OpenAI stumbles, Microsoft does too. Microsoft may be powering the AI revolution, but, until solved, its capacity woes put an awkward cap on the revenue that business can bring in. To fix the problem, the company is feeding its voracious appetite for cloud computing capacity – but all of that spending may start to rattle investors. Microsoft shelled out $37.5 billion in capital expenditures in the last quarter, a figure that includes AI infrastructure investment like data centers. Meanwhile, its Azure cloud business grew 39% in the quarter, beating expectations but staying flat from last quarter’s growth. In the company’s earnings report, CEO Satya Nadella argued that Microsoft is well-positioned in the “beginning phases” of AI adoption. “We are pushing the frontier across our entire AI stack to drive new value for our customers and partners,” Nadella said. AI’s major players are set to sink more cash than ever into the technology this year. But after a few years of AI-driven sugar highs, the industry may finally be tempered by investors eager for an endgame. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Garmin smartwatches have been gaining popularity in recent years for health-conscious and sports enthusiasts alike. Their Garmin Venu 3S, which was released in late 2023, is one of their premium watches that works great for beginners and more advanced athletes thanks to their user-friendly fitness tracking. You can get the 41mm Venu 3S for $349.99 (originally $449.99), the lowest price it has been, according to price-tracking tools. Garmin Venu 3S Operating System: Android, Memory Storage Capacity: 8 GB $349.99 at Amazon $449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $349.99 at Amazon $449.99 Save $100.00 The Venus 3S offers Android and Apple users a long battery life of up to 10 days (depending on your use and settings), 8GB of storage, a built-in GPS to track your activity, and a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen. This 41mm size is perfect for people with smaller-sized wrists. The Venus 3S is user-friendly, with three buttons and a touchscreen to navigate its features and avoid accidentally stopping your workout. The smartwatch has a speaker and microphone so you can take your calls directly from your watch. You can also use it to listen to its guided meditation feature or your playlists from Spotify and Amazon music; just keep in mind there is no LTE support, so you'll need to be within Bluetooth or wifi range of your phone to use these features. If you're looking for a smartwatch to do trail runs, this smartwatch is not it, since there's no trail-run feature. However, you can get stats on your recovery time after workouts as well as the benefits of your training, a morning report of your health status, heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, on-screen workouts you can follow along, their Body Battery Energy Monitoring that shows you how much or little energy you might have, as well as a Sleep Coach feature that helps you improve your sleep. View the full article

VA- and FHA-backed mortgages helped drive the increase in property volume, but sales did not maintain the same pace, according to Auction.com. View the full article