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It’s Administrative Professionals Day! Last week we talked about the most ridiculous requests you’ve seen made of assistants, and here are 17 of my favorite stories you shared. 1. The flusher This was when I worked at a toxic doctor’s office. I was admin assistant to his wife, the practice manager, and my desk was closest to the bathroom. She always wore a headset and once took a call while in the bathroom. When she was done with the bathroom part, she came out and motioned for me to flush the toilet for her so her caller didn’t hear it. 2. The astrologist When I was an assistant, my boss made me input every day when Mercury would be in retrograde into her calendar. 3. The prayer My boss at a legal staffing company once sent me to a church to light a candle of remembrance to honor her late husband, asking me to be sure to pray for him on her behalf. She told me she was too busy to go on her own (I was her EA; she wasn’t) and I heard her explaining to her adult children the heart rending emotions she felt while she lit the candle. It was my first job out of college and I a great deference to authority, and so I did it. Even the prayers, although we did not share a religion. 4. The eye drops I was working at a Big8 accounting firm and for a brief period of time I had to put eye drops in the eyes of one of the senior partners. (Editor’s note: this has apparently happened enough that there were TWO stories submitted of two different bosses requesting this.) 5. The car When my boss couldn’t park in her preferred spot in the parking garage, she’d leave her car in the loading dock, come inside, and throw her keys on the reception desk. I was supposed to go park her car for her and then, of course, retrieve it again at the end of the day since she didn’t know where it was in the garage. 6. The binder clip prep I was an admin for three years to the president of a tiny medical software company. I would place office supply orders — pretty normal. But when I ordered new binder clips, I had to dump out the plastic cylinder of clips and flip up the tabs on each one, then put them back (at which point they never fit properly into the cylinder anymore and I had to kind of jam them in). This was because my boss was too busy to do this himself when he wanted to use a binder clip. 7. The mail chute This happened back in the early 1990s, before there was internet and email. I worked as an assistant to a salesman in a bank and used to wear dress suits and pantyhose to work. My job was to help him put together proposals for organizations. He was a type A personality, and I tried to comply to his demands, even making sure that the paper on which we printed had the watermark consistently facing in the same direction. One day we had accidentally sent out a proposal with a section missing. It had already been delivered to our mailroom’s DHL bin, awaiting its final destination. I asked why we couldn’t just send the missing section separately, but my boss was worried that it would appear unprofessional. Then he suggested that the two of us go to the mailroom together, where he would pick me up by the ankles and dip me upside-down, head-first into the DHL bin to retrieve the package. He was completely serious. For a second, I imagined this scenario in which my skirt would slide up my thighs. I refused. In the end, we got a couple of the smaller men from the mailroom to recover the proposal for us, so it all worked out and my dignity remained intact. 8. The coffee This wasn’t so much an unreasonable request, but I was so proud of my sneakiness at the time – I occasionally had to assist a woman who was notoriously mean to everyone. She always wanted Starbucks coffee, but the trouble was that the closest Starbucks was 4 blocks away and always had a huge line (this was before online ordering was a thing), so getting it would take forever. She DID. NOT. UNDERSTAND why her coffee wasn’t magically appearing two minutes after she asked for it. Finally, after being berated one too many times, I asked the Starbucks barista for a bunch of cups and lids, and from then on, any time this woman demanded her Starbucks coffee, I simply dipped into our kitched, poured whatever Folgers coffee was let in the shared pot into the Starbucks cup, popped a lid on, and brought it back to her. She never knew the difference. 9. The light My boss once texted me to come turn on his office light while he was already sitting in there. 10. The avocados The dumbest request I’ve ever gotten as an assistant: going out every morning to buy multiple avocados for the CEO to choose from. After she chose her preferred avocado, I had to slice it in half, put cayenne pepper on it, and serve it to her on a plate. With chopsticks. She once asked me to put the whole avocado setup on a paper plate in a ziploc bag so she could eat while driving to the Hamptons (again – with chopsticks). I made the more senior assistant handle that one as I didn’t want to be liable in case her dumb ass did something on the road. 11. The trash collector I worked for a tiny org, with a tiny office space. The boss refused to buy the city’s trash and recycling services because the rolling bins would have to be visible in the main space and that would “look unprofessional.” Instead, multiple times a week I was tasked to take office trash home to dispose of in my own residential bins. I even handled some bulky trash disposal piece by piece from a renovation prior to my start date. 12. The chef The EA at my first big job was responsible for preparing lunch for the CEO every day. She cooked it at home the night before and warmed it for him (always on the stove, no microwaves allowed) and served it to him at the same time daily. Every other task on her agenda was dropped for lunch. It took at least an hour a day, between prep and dishes afterwards. 13. The rehab driver I was voluntold to escort the nonprofit CEO’s adult child to rehab. To make matters worse, the adult child didn’t realize that the “appointment” was an intake to a 30-day program. Needless to say, she declined. That was an awkward Uber ride back to the office. 14. The swim instructor After my first year of law school, I was hired for the summer by a law firm in my hometown as a law clerk/paralegal/administrative assistant/whatever Weird Lawyer needed me to do. I mentioned I was on the swim team in college. He would swim for exercise a few times a week. I had to give him swim lessons. 15. The sofa Early in my career, I was part of a small army of assistants supporting the owner/CEO of a reasonably sized company. When I was hired, her office was mid-refurbishment — and she was profoundly offended by how new the leather sofa looked. Apparently, it didn’t align with her carefully curated vision. To fix this, another junior assistant and I were given a highly specialized assignment: make the sofa look lived-in. How? By taking turns jumping on it in 30‑minute shifts until it met her aesthetic standards. This was a very professional office. It was the 1990s. The dress code was strict. We wore pencil skirts and pantyhose. Picture two exhausted assistants aggressively bounce-testing a leather sofa like it owed us money. It’s honestly a miracle neither of us pulled a muscle, ripped hosiery, or had to explain to HR why we were airborne in the CEO’s office. The sofa survived. So did we. Barely. It was also the exact moment I realized I might want to explore a different career path — one that didn’t involve trampoline-based interior design. 16. The fish tank Years ago, I worked for the very sweetest, most lovely older man who happened to be very short. He also loved tropical fish, and in his office he had a wall-sized tank that he was very proud of. One day I heard him yelling my name, ran to his office, and turned the corner to see him standing in a stepstool, in his underwear, soaking wet. This was confusing, to understate it. Turns out one of his fish had died and he had been trying to use a net to get the body off the bottom of the tank, but couldn’t reach and fell in! He thought maybe I could help because I had longer arms. Once I got some clarity on What exactly Was Going On Here, I of course happily tried to help, but it was wall sized! I couldn’t get the poor deceased fish either, but I did call the fish tank guy (yes, we had a guy) for an emergency rescue. 17. The refusal My second day working for a renowned surgeon and department chair (and big muckety muck overall), he gave me his wife’s phone number to assist her with her afternoon social in three days. (Note: attendees were just her friends and social climbing assets.) I was so shocked, my spine grew unexpectedly and I told him that I was a state employee and would never perform any personal errands for him and certainly not his wife. To his credit, he just said okay and never brought it up again. I actually think he respected me for speaking up and the four years I worked for him were some of the best in my work life. The post the eye drops, the flusher, and other ridiculous requests made of assistants appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Michael is aiming for a record-breaking opening weekend. It’s also a critical flop. In a vacuum, the Michael Jackson biopic might sound like a perfectly palatable film. The movie stars Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson as the titular singer, following his childhood through the height of his career in the 1980s with non-stop musical sequences of the King of Pop’s greatest hits. But Michael Jackson’s legacy is more than just music. Audiences and critics alike are panning Michael for glossing over the dark side of Jackson’s life, proving that it takes more than a famous subject to make a biopic a critical success—even while Jackson’s star power propels the movie to a box office of $70 million its debut weekend. The elephant in the room As initial reviews for Michael roll in, the movie’s Rotten Tomatoes score has gone viral: a decidedly rotten 34%. Many critics are taking issue with the film’s exclusion of Jackson’s 1993 allegations of child abuse, which plagued the last two decades of his life and came to pop culture prominence again with the 2019 docuseries Leaving Neverland. In his only criminal trial in 2005, Jackson was acquitted, but his reputation never recovered. Michael, critics think, might be trying to change that. “There are scenes that can only be described as whitewashing, sainting Michael Jackson in such a way that it feels explicitly like calculated damage control,” reads Monica Castillo’s review of Michael for AV Club. Writing for The Associated Press, Jake Coyle said that Michael “slides a sequin glove over the pop star’s tarnished legacy.” But outside of what did or didn’t make the cut from Jackson’s life, critics also say the movie fails on its own merits. “Michael does the impossible: It makes the King of Pop boring,” wrote Siddhant Adlakha for IGN, calling it a “frictionless, flat, paper-thin story that’s so concerned with fidelity to bullet points and recognizable highlights that it robs its characters of soul.” In other words, it’s bad. Really, really bad. The film’s defenders point out that the movie’s timeline ends in 1987 before Jackson was ever accused, so it makes sense that the controversy isn’t included in the film—but that’s exactly the problem, its critics contend. On social media, viewers compared Michael’s framing to ending an O.J. Simpson biopic after he won the Heisman Trophy, a Harvey Weinstein biopic after he nabbed an Oscar for Shakespeare in Love, or a Bill Cosby biopic with the success of his sitcom. There’s an elephant in the room when it comes to Jackson’s legacy, and leaving it out with not so much as a nod reads to many viewers as an attempt at reputation rehab. Left on the cutting room floor Michael wasn’t always so heavily sanitized. An originally shot third act of the movie would have focused on Jackson’s allegations of child abuse and their impact on his life—but it all had to be scrapped. Attorneys from the Jackson estate, which produced the movie, noticed after filming that a clause in a settlement with one of Jackson’s accusers, Jordan Chandler, barred the depiction or mention of him in any movie. That led to 22 days of reshoots and a reimagined ending, adding $10 to $15 million to the movie’s already massive budget, according to Variety. The musical biopic craze continues Critics can come for Michael all they want, but it’s unlikely to stop the movie from box office domination. It’s currently projected to make $65 million to $70 million in its opening weekend, with some experts predicting the movie will cross the $80 million threshold. Even the low end of those projections would give Michael the highest-grossing debut for musical biopic of all time, topping 2018’s Bohemian Rhapsody, which earned $51 million in its opening weekend. Michael is only the latest in a decade-long flurry of musical biopics, kickstarted by the Freddie Mercury-focused Bohemian Rhapsody and continued by a cohort of icons like Elton John in 2019’s Rocketman, Elvis Presley in 2022’s Elvis, Bob Dylan in 2024’s A Complete Unknown, and Bruce Springsteen in last year’s Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere. The movies are by and large crowdpleasers, mixing beloved music with silver-screen spectacle, but Michael exemplifies their biggest issue: simplifying complicated, fascinating figures for the sake of preserving their legacies. Critics may decry the genre as oversaturated—but with numbers this massive even for a much-maligned movie like Michael, they’re unlikely to fall out of favor in Hollywood any time soon. View the full article

Creating a standard Chart of Accounts (CoA) for your business is vital for effective financial management. It involves organizing your financial data into categories, such as assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses. This structure not just aids in tracking transactions but additionally improves clarity in reporting. As you start this process, you’ll need to evaluate your specific financial needs and how to categorize your accounts effectively. Comprehending these aspects is fundamental, and the next steps will guide you through each phase of development. Key Takeaways Assess your business needs to determine the complexity and number of accounts required for effective financial tracking. Define clear categories for assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses, ensuring each account serves a specific purpose. Establish a logical numbering system that allows for future expansions and easy grouping of similar accounts. Use descriptive and consistent naming conventions for accounts to enhance clarity and understanding of financial data. Regularly review and update the Chart of Accounts to maintain relevance and compliance with accounting standards. What Is a Chart of Accounts? A Chart of Accounts (CoA) is fundamentally a structured list that organizes all the financial accounts used by your business to categorize financial transactions. This systematic approach includes various account types, such as assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses. Each account in the CoA is assigned unique chart of accounts codes, often adhering to a numerical system—for instance, assets might range from 1000 to 1999, whereas liabilities could be from 2000 to 2999. These accounting codes and classifications improve the clarity of your financial reporting, making it easier to prepare crucial financial statements like the balance sheet and income statement. A standard chart of accounts varies across industries, with organizations typically having between 20 to several hundred accounts based on their transaction diversity. A well-structured CoA not solely supports compliance with accounting standards but additionally simplifies tracking of expenses and account balances. Importance of an Effective Chart of Accounts Grasping the importance of an effective Chart of Accounts (CoA) is essential for any business aiming to maintain financial clarity and accuracy. A well-structured CoA provides a clear framework for categorizing financial transactions, ensuring compliance with standards like GAAP or IFRS. This organization enables you to easily access and interpret vital financial data for decision-making. It streamlines the preparation of financial statements, including your income statement accounts list. You’ll find it easier to manage your expense accounts list. Clear equity accounts examples help in comprehending your business’s financial position. Regular updates keep your CoA relevant and accurate. A concise CoA typically includes 20-30 accounts, avoiding unnecessary complexity. How Does a Chart of Accounts Work? Comprehending how a Chart of Accounts (CoA) works is vital for effective financial management. A CoA organizes financial accounts into a systematic structure, dividing them into Balance Sheet Accounts and Income Statement Accounts. This organization allows you to use only the appropriate accounts to prepare a balance sheet, ensuring that assets, liabilities, and equity are clearly defined. Each account is assigned a unique reference number, which simplifies identification and retrieval, following a standardized numbering system. By categorizing financial transactions, the CoA improves the clarity of financial data, making it easier for you and other stakeholders to analyze performance. Furthermore, a well-structured list of revenue accounts enables you to track income effectively. Regular updates and reviews of the CoA are vital to maintain its accuracy and relevance, ensuring compliance with accounting standards like GAAP or IFRS. This systematic approach lays the groundwork for accurate financial reporting. Types of Chart of Accounts Grasping the different types of accounts within a Chart of Accounts (CoA) is fundamental for effective financial tracking and reporting. The CoA is typically categorized into five primary types, each serving distinct purposes: Asset Accounts (1XXX): Resources owned by your company, like cash and inventory. Liability Accounts (2XXX): Obligations you owe, including loans and accounts payable. Equity Accounts (3XXX): Reflects owners’ residual interest after liabilities, such as retained earnings. Revenue Accounts (4XXX): Tracks income generated from your core business activities. Expense Accounts (5XXX – 7XXX): Records costs incurred to generate revenue, including salaries and rent. The structure of a CoA can vary considerably across industries. Small businesses often use around 20 accounts, whereas more complex organizations may require a detailed set for specific reporting needs. Comprehending these types will set a solid foundation for your financial management. How to Create a Chart of Accounts: 8 Key Steps Creating a Chart of Accounts starts with evaluating your business needs to understand the complexity of your financial transactions. From there, you’ll define specific account categories that suit your operations and establish a clear numbering system to organize these accounts logically. These initial steps set the foundation for effective tracking and reporting, ensuring your financial management remains streamlined and accurate. Assess Business Needs When you assess your business needs, it’s essential to recognize the complexity and diversity of your financial transactions, as this will guide you in determining the appropriate number of accounts for effective tracking and reporting. Start by identifying specific accounts relevant to your operations. Reflect on breaking down broad categories into detailed accounts for better granularity, making sure each serves a clear purpose. Remember to maintain a balance between simplicity and detail to avoid cumbersome management. Here are some key points to reflect on: Identify assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses. Limit the number of accounts for clarity. Regularly review your Chart of Accounts. Adjust accounts as your business evolves. Maintain compliance with accounting standards. Define Account Categories Defining account categories is crucial for establishing a well-structured Chart of Accounts (CoA) that accurately reflects your business’s financial position. Start by identifying the five main categories: assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses. Each category should be broken down into specific accounts; for example, list cash and inventory under assets, accounts payable under liabilities, and sales revenue under revenue. This approach allows for detailed tracking and reporting of financial activities. Use clear and concise naming conventions to avoid confusion and guarantee consistent comprehension across your organization. Regularly review and update your CoA to adapt to changes in your business operations or regulatory requirements, keeping it relevant and effective for your financial management needs. Establish Numbering System A well-organized numbering system is essential for your Chart of Accounts, helping you categorize and track your financial data effectively. Start by establishing a logical framework, grouping accounts into categories like: Assets (1000-1999) Liabilities (2000-2999) Equity (3000-3999) Revenue (4000-4999) Expenses (5000-5999) Leave gaps in the numbering (e.g., 1000, 1010, 1020) to allow for future additions without disrupting the structure. Use clear, descriptive names for accounts to improve comprehension. Make sure your numbering system aligns with industry standards and regulatory requirements, promoting compliance. Finally, regularly review and adjust the system as your business evolves, keeping it relevant and effective for tracking financial transactions. Best Practices in Chart of Accounts Establishing best practices in your Chart of Accounts is crucial for effective financial management, as it lays the foundation for accurate record-keeping and reporting. Start by categorizing accounts into five main groups: assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses. Use a standard numbering system to maintain order and consistency. Here’s a quick overview of best practices: Best Practice Description Clear Descriptions Maintain concise descriptions for easy tracking. Regular Reviews Update your Chart regularly to reflect business changes. Avoid Deleting Accounts Don’t delete accounts during the fiscal year; consolidate instead. Utilize Accounting Software Use software with templates to streamline management. Guarantee Compliance Align your Chart with accounting standards like GAAP or IFRS. Following these guidelines not only improves clarity but additionally boosts your financial reporting and overall business efficiency. Common Mistakes to Avoid When managing your Chart of Accounts, it’s easy to fall into common pitfalls that can undermine its effectiveness. To maintain accuracy and efficiency, steer clear of these mistakes: Misclassifying accounts, like recording dividends as expenses, can lead to compliance issues. Deleting accounts during the fiscal year disrupts financial data integrity, making reporting difficult. Overcomplicating your Chart of Accounts with too many detailed accounts creates confusion and inefficiencies. Neglecting regular reviews may leave outdated or irrelevant accounts that don’t align with your current operations. Failing to establish clear naming conventions and account numbering results in inconsistencies and tracking difficulties. Utilizing Accounting Software for Management Utilizing accounting software can greatly streamline the management of your Chart of Accounts (CoA), especially as your business grows and evolves. Tools like QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, and Xero offer predefined templates to set up your CoA quickly and in line with industry standards. You can customize account numbering and naming conventions, adapting the CoA to your specific needs as you ensure clarity. Additionally, these platforms provide real-time reporting capabilities, allowing you to track financial performance and make informed decisions. Automation reduces manual errors, making it easier to update and maintain account information. Integrating accounting software with other business systems improves efficiency, promoting seamless data flow and boosting overall financial reporting accuracy. Feature Benefit Predefined Templates Quick setup aligned with industry standards Customization Options Customized account names and numbers Real-Time Reporting Informed decision-making Automation Reduced manual errors Future Considerations for Your Chart of Accounts Designing a Chart of Accounts (CoA) with future growth in mind is vital for any business aiming to remain agile and responsive to changing conditions. As your organization evolves, consider the following strategies to guarantee your CoA remains effective: Scalability: Build a CoA that allows for easy addition of new accounts as your operations diversify. Annual Review: Regularly update your CoA to stay aligned with business needs and regulatory changes. Flexibility: Incorporate design elements that enable adaptation to reorganizations or acquisitions without disrupting financial tracking. Number Ranges: Implement a number range for accounts to create a multilevel hierarchy, which aids in thorough reporting and analysis. Governance Framework: Establish a strong maintenance framework to mitigate risks related to data inconsistency and guarantee efficient evolution of your CoA. Frequently Asked Questions Can I Customize My Chart of Accounts for Specific Business Needs? Yes, you can customize your chart of accounts to meet your specific business needs. Tailoring it allows you to categorize financial transactions that reflect your unique operations, enhancing clarity in reporting. You can add, modify, or remove accounts to align with your business model. Just make certain that your customization maintains compliance with accounting standards, facilitating accurate reporting and analysis. This flexibility can eventually improve financial management and decision-making in your organization. How Often Should I Update My Chart of Accounts? You should update your chart of accounts regularly, ideally at least once a year, or whenever significant changes occur in your business. This includes adding new accounts for different revenue streams or expenses, removing outdated ones, or adjusting account classifications. Keeping it current guarantees that your financial reporting accurately reflects your operations, making it easier to analyze performance, comply with regulations, and prepare for audits. Regular reviews help maintain the chart’s relevance and effectiveness. What Are the Consequences of a Poorly Structured Chart of Accounts? A poorly structured chart of accounts can lead to significant issues for your business. You may face difficulties in tracking financial performance accurately, resulting in poor decision-making. It can complicate tax preparation and compliance, increasing the risk of errors or audits. Moreover, inconsistent categorization of transactions can hinder financial reporting, making it hard to compare periods or assess profitability. In the end, these factors can affect your business’s credibility and financial health. Is Training Necessary for Staff to Understand the Chart of Accounts? Yes, training’s necessary for staff to understand the chart of accounts. Without proper training, employees may misinterpret account classifications, leading to inaccurate financial reporting. Training guarantees everyone knows how to use the chart effectively, which improves consistency across your organization. It helps staff understand the implications of each account and promotes better decision-making. Regular training sessions can likewise address updates or changes, guaranteeing that your team remains informed and efficient in their roles. Can I Integrate My Chart of Accounts With Other Financial Systems? Yes, you can integrate your chart of accounts with other financial systems, which streamlines your financial reporting and data management. Many accounting software platforms offer integration options, allowing you to synchronize data across systems. This integration guarantees consistency, reduces manual data entry errors, and improves overall efficiency. When selecting software, consider compatibility with your existing systems to facilitate a seamless integration process, eventually leading to more accurate financial analysis and decision-making. Conclusion Creating a standard Chart of Accounts is vital for effective financial management in your business. By systematically organizing accounts into assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses, you improve clarity and guarantee accurate reporting. Regularly review and update your CoA to align with your business’s growth and compliance needs. Utilizing accounting software can further streamline this process. Adopting best practices and avoiding common pitfalls will help you maintain a robust financial framework that supports informed decision-making. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Create a Standard Chart of Accounts for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The company that the global firm is investing in owns a U.S. mortgage correspondent business and another domestic lender that does business with brokers. View the full article

U-turn by Brussels would be bitterly contested by environmental groupsView the full article

In a time when financial decisions are at the forefront of many conversations, small business owners must navigate a complex landscape of affordability and consumer sentiment. A recent survey conducted by CNBC and SurveyMonkey sheds light on how both small business owners and their customers perceive affordability in 2026. The findings reveal significant implications for businesses ranging from pricing strategies to customer engagement. The quarterly CNBC and SurveyMonkey Money Survey highlights a stark reality: consumers are increasingly worried about their financial situations. According to the survey, 69% of respondents express concerns about their financial well-being, which is a notable increase from previous quarters. This shift in sentiment presents both challenges and opportunities for small businesses striving to remain competitive. One key takeaway from the survey is the shifting landscape of consumer priorities. While many continue to prioritize experiences over material possessions, affordability remains a critical concern. “Consumers are looking for value,” says a leading economist involved in the survey. “Businesses that can convey the value proposition effectively will have a distinct advantage.” This presents an actionable insight for small business owners: framing products and services as valuable investments, rather than expenses, can help bridge the gap between customer concerns and purchasing decisions. Small business owners can harness the survey data to refine their pricing strategies. With a looming recession in the minds of many, transparent pricing and clear value messaging will resonate more with consumers. Offering promotions, discounts, or loyalty programs can build customer loyalty while addressing affordability challenges. For instance, a coffee shop might introduce a subscription model, allowing customers to enjoy their daily brew at a reduced rate, thereby reinforcing the sense of value and affordability. However, small business owners should also consider potential pitfalls. While the desire to attract cost-conscious consumers is strong, slashing prices indiscriminately can lead to diminished profit margins. “There’s a fine line between being competitive and compromising profitability,” warns a small business consultant. Additionally, focusing solely on affordability could distract businesses from enhancing their overall brand value. Finding the right balance will be essential for sustainable growth. Another interesting insight from the survey is the rising importance of financial literacy among consumers. As many individuals seek to better understand their financial situations, small businesses can capitalize on this trend by providing educational resources. Workshops, free online seminars, or informational blog posts can position a business as a trusted source of information, fostering community connections and driving customer loyalty. The survey indicates that younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are driving this shift towards affordability while still seeking quality. According to the data, nearly 45% of respondents from these age groups would rather purchase from companies that prioritize ethical practices over lower prices. Small businesses that can showcase their commitment to sustainability and good practices may find a receptive audience even during challenging economic times. In essence, the CNBC and SurveyMonkey Money Survey illuminates a path for small business owners navigating a world increasingly concerned with affordability. By focusing on value, implementing transparent pricing strategies, and enhancing customer relationships, small businesses can not only survive but thrive in this evolving landscape. As financial pressures tighten for consumers, the insights gleaned from this survey can empower small business owners to adapt effectively. Emphasizing quality and value, while remaining mindful of pricing strategies, can lead to stronger customer relationships and a more robust bottom line. These findings underscore the importance of being attuned to consumer sentiment, as well as the necessity of ongoing adjustment to meet changing demands. For those interested in the full findings of the CNBC and SurveyMonkey Quarterly Money Survey, you can access the report here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "SurveyMonkey and CNBC Unveil New Insights on Q2 2026 Affordability" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Pause may put a lid on full-blown war without stopping hostilities or easing energy crisisView the full article

Google is rolling out App Consent Insights in Google Ads, giving advertisers a clearer view into how consent signals impact app campaign performance. What’s new. The new diagnostics view breaks down consent data across apps, platforms, regions, and traffic sources, helping marketers pinpoint gaps in their setup. Zoom in. Advertisers can see an overall consent rating — like “Excellent,” “Good,” or “Poor” — alongside a live count of apps actively sending consented data. A detailed table also shows consent rates for conversions, including splits between EEA and non-EEA users. Why we care. As privacy regulations tighten, consent isn’t just a compliance box — it directly affects measurement and optimization. Advertisers now get more visibility into where consent setups may be limiting performance. Between the lines. Google is making consent more measurable — and more actionable — as signal loss continues to impact campaign performance. What to watch. Expect advertisers to start optimizing not just for conversions, but for consent rates themselves as a performance lever. Bottom line. Better consent visibility means better data — and ultimately, better campaign outcomes. First seen. This update was first spotted by Google Ads specialist Thomas Eccel on LinkedIn. View the full article

The great jazz The Presidenteter Miles Davis once said, “Sometimes you have to play a long time to be able to play like yourself.” This is why the best artists are not only masterful at their craft but also distinctive in their voice; they’ve committed themselves to the process of being themselves. Subsequently, this means they committed themselves to the failure that comes along with it also. But that’s the part no one talks about—the work required to “become” who we are or, better yet, who we want to be. It’s as if we’re expected to go to the gym and walk out with a six-pack. That’s not how the gym works, nor is it how work works. And we know this. There’s a process to becoming, and that process inherently requires failure. Be that as it may, there are no LinkedIn claps reserved for failing. There are no at-a-boys for coming up short, despite the reality that we’ve all experienced failure to get to where we are. But of course, failure is just a natural part of the process of becoming. So why do we omit this truth from our stories when we tell the tale of becoming ourselves? Why do we whitewash the parts that aren’t so flattering and “yada yada yada” our narratives to a flatten expression of self. I get the fact that no one wants to fail, let alone admit to it. However, I also realize that in order to get good at something, we have to work through being not so good first. So, maybe we should practice sharing the entire story more frequently to help folks more successfully navigate this process of becoming. That’s exactly why we invited Courtnee LeClaire onto the FOR THE CULTURE podcast. LeClaire’s career trajectory consists of a who’s-who of brands. She was the head of worldwide app marketing and corporate partnerships at Apple after launching the iPod and iPhone. She’s held executive marketing seats at Disney and Intel before serving as CMO of the Oakland Raiders. But these days, LeClaire boasts a different title. Today, she is a chief “becoming” officer, an executive coach that helps leaders become their best selves, who they truly are, to help them achieve what Paul Coelho’s The Alchemist would call their personal legend. Despite her long list of impressive accomplishments, in this new role LeClaire spends more time talking about her failures, but she makes a pointed distinction between “failure” and “failing” that unlocks many of the challenges we have with failure. Failure, as LeClaire bifurcates, is a complete sentence. It’s done, and, therefore, it occupies real estate in our lives like a title—I failed, so I’m a failure. Failing, on the other hand, is an active sentence, meaning that there’s something that comes after it. And it’s the something that comes after it that enables us to do something about it. I’m failing, so I need to [fill the blank]. I was failing, so I [fill in a blank some action]. The reframing of failure to failing is what opens the door for success. Whether it’s something new or something new to us, there will be a point when we are failing relative to our ambition and taste. But when we perceive it as an active sentence, we give ourselves room to improve. Failure is something we experience, not who we are. It’s a moment in time, and because it’s something we’re merely experiencing, that means we can change it. This distinction is critical. One is a state of who we are (failure), and the other is a state of where we are (failing). When we reposition failure to failing (or I was failing), we acknowledge the reality of where we are relative to where we want to be and can now honor the fact that this is just a part of the process. To hear this from LeClaire during our conversation on the pod had a profound impact on me personally because I worked with her during my time at Apple. She was much more senior than I was, and I “totemized” her as the consummate example of having it all together. She wasn’t in my reporting vertical, but I got to engage her from time to time, where she’d drop marketing wisdom and sage advice for how to navigate life on One Infinite Loop. To hear her reveal her moments of failing on her way to becoming, even in those moments when I held her on a pedestal, was like learning that Spiderman is really Peter Parker. That is to say, LeClaire, like all of us, had to play a lot to learn to play like herself. Fancy that. Hearing this not only humanized LeClaire but also gave me permission to admit to my own failings and accept the fact that we’re all just buffering, even the best of us, as we become our best selves. Imagine how empowering that would be if we all started to share our own processes of becoming, moving from failure to failing; it might help us all navigate the process with a bit more grace—and perhaps even a bit more success. Check out the full episode of our conversation with Courtnee LeClaire on the latest episode of the FOR THE CULTURE podcast on Spotify or wherever you get your podcast. View the full article

Advertisers are sharing their experience of a new Ads Manager interface for ChatGPT, signaling a shift toward a more mature advertising platform with real-time campaign control. What’s new. The Ads Manager is described as a dashboard where marketers can run, monitor, and optimize campaigns in real time — a major step up from current reporting and controls. Digital marketers Juozas Kaziukėnas and Glenn Gabe shared images of what they saw. Why we care. Until now, ChatGPT ads have been early-stage and limited, with advertisers reportedly relying on basic reporting like weekly CSV files. The move to a full Ads Manager suggests OpenAI is building infrastructure closer to platforms like Google Ads or Meta. Zoom in. Advertisers are already seeing more ads appear inside ChatGPT, with brands like Best Buy and Expedia spotted in early tests. That increase in inventory, paired with a proper management interface, points to a rapid expansion of monetization efforts. What to watch: As the Ads Manager evolves, expect improvements in targeting, reporting, and automation — areas where early feedback suggests ChatGPT ads are still limited. First seen. Glenn Gabe shared the images of the ChatGPT ads manager on X. View the full article

Personal credit plays a significant role in obtaining business loans, as lenders assess your credit score during the approval process. A score above 700 usually results in better loan terms, whereas scores under 680 can limit your financing options. This credit evaluation affects not just traditional lenders but additionally the Small Business Administration and online lenders. Comprehending how your personal credit influences these decisions can be essential for your business’s financial future. What steps can you take to strengthen your credit profile? Key Takeaways Personal credit scores significantly influence loan approval, with higher scores improving chances of securing financing for businesses. Lenders often use personal credit as a risk assessment tool, affecting interest rates and loan terms offered to borrowers. Scores below 680 complicate approvals from traditional lenders, while SBA loans may accept scores as low as 650. Strong personal credit can enhance business credit, leading to better financing options and lower costs in the long run. Effective management of personal credit through timely payments and reduced debt improves overall funding opportunities for business growth. Understanding Personal Credit Scores Comprehending personal credit scores is critical for anyone looking to secure financing, particularly for business loans. Your personal credit score, which ranges from 300 to 850, considerably influences your ability to obtain funding. Lenders often consider scores above 700 favorable, as they indicate lower credit risk. So, does personal credit affect business credit? Absolutely. A solid personal credit score can help you secure better loan terms, whereas a low score complicates approval, especially with traditional lenders. Many online lenders may accept scores below 650, but often at higher interest rates. It’s also important to understand business credit vs personal credit; although they’re distinct, your personal credit can impact your business credit. In short, do business loans use personal credit? Yes, they often do, making it vital to manage your personal credit score effectively to improve your financing options for your business. How Personal Credit Scores Are Calculated Grasping how personal credit scores are calculated is vital for anyone aiming to improve their financial standing. Your credit score hinges on five key factors. First, payment history accounts for 35% of your score; this includes any late payments or bankruptcies. Next, the debt owed contributes 30%, which assesses your debt-to-credit limit ratio. Keeping your balances low relative to your available credit is fundamental. The length of your credit history makes up 15% of the score, considering how long your credit accounts have been active. Furthermore, the types of credit used contribute 10%, indicating the variety of credit sources you have. Finally, new credit inquiries, likewise 10%, can negatively affect your score if you have multiple hard inquiries in a short timeframe, suggesting potential financial instability. Comprehending these factors helps you manage your credit effectively, leading to better financial opportunities. The Impact of Personal Credit on Loan Approval Your personal credit plays a significant role in determining whether you’ll secure a loan for your business. Lenders closely evaluate your personal credit score alongside your business credit profile. A score below 680 can complicate approvals from traditional lenders, whereas scores above 700 are typically preferred. The Small Business Administration may accept scores as low as 650, but lower scores can hinder your chances. Here’s a breakdown of how personal credit factors into loan approval: Credit Score Range Loan Approval Likelihood Below 650 Low; high interest rates 650 – 679 Moderate; potential hurdles 680 – 699 Good; may need additional info 700 – 749 Strong; favorable terms 750 and above Excellent; easy approval Options for Borrowers With Varying Credit Scores How do different credit scores affect your options when seeking a business loan? Your personal credit score plays an essential role in the types of loans available to you. Here’s what to expect based on your score: Excellent Credit (700+): You’ll likely secure favorable terms and lower interest rates from traditional lenders. Good Credit (650-700): SBA loans may be an option, but you’ll need other strong business metrics for approval. Fair Credit (600-649): Qualifying for traditional loans can be tough, yet online lenders might consider your application, albeit at higher interest rates. Poor Credit (below 600): Your options diminish considerably, and you may face challenges in securing any loan. Impact of Credit Score: Lower scores often lead to shorter loan terms and increased total interest costs. Understanding these options can help you navigate your borrowing strategy effectively. The Importance of Managing Personal Credit Managing personal credit is a fundamental aspect of securing business financing, as lenders often evaluate personal credit scores when determining a borrower’s overall creditworthiness. A solid personal credit score can improve your chances of obtaining business loans. To maintain a good score, make timely bill payments and keep credit card balances low, as this indicates reliability to lenders. Here’s a quick look at how to improve your personal credit: Action Description Impact on Credit Score Timely Payments Pay bills on time Positive Reduce Debt Lower outstanding balances Positive Keep Accounts Open Maintain older accounts Positive Limit New Applications Avoid opening too many new accounts Negative Understanding these personal credit management strategies is essential for entrepreneurs. It maximizes funding opportunities and supports business growth effectively. Building a Strong Business Credit Profile To build a strong business credit profile, start by establishing business credit accounts in your company’s name. Maintaining a low credit utilization ratio, ideally under 30%, shows lenders that you manage your finances responsibly. Establishing Business Credit Accounts Establishing business credit accounts is a vital step for any entrepreneur looking to build a strong business credit profile. To effectively do this, you should consider the following actions: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business. Open a business credit profile with major credit bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet. Apply for a business credit card to start establishing credit. Set up vendor lines of credit with suppliers that report payments. Make timely payments on all credit accounts to improve your credit score. These steps help you create a solid credit history, which is important for securing future loans and demonstrating your reliability to lenders. Regularly monitoring your credit reports for accuracy can further elevate your standing. Maintaining Low Credit Utilization Building a strong business credit profile goes beyond simply establishing accounts; maintaining a low credit utilization ratio is a key factor in demonstrating financial responsibility. Ideally, you should keep your credit utilization below 30%, with lenders favoring rates of 10% or lower. This indicates that you can manage debts effectively and aren’t overly reliant on credit. Regularly monitoring your credit utilization helps you identify areas for improvement, protecting your creditworthiness. Using American Express credit cards for operational expenses during keeping balances low can considerably improve your credit profile, nurturing trust with lenders and vendors. Credit Utilization Rate Impact on Credit Profile Below 10% Excellent 10% – 30% Good 30% – 50% Fair Above 50% Poor Frequently Asked Questions Does Personal Credit Affect a Business Loan? Yes, personal credit does affect a business loan. Lenders often evaluate your personal credit score to determine your reliability as a borrower. A score below 680 can lead to difficulties in securing traditional loans, whereas a score above 700 is usually favored. Even the Small Business Administration has minimum score requirements. Maintaining a strong personal credit profile is crucial, as it can influence both the approval process and the terms of your business financing. Does Personal Credit Rating Affect Business Loans? Yes, your personal credit rating greatly affects your ability to secure business loans. Lenders often review both personal and business credit profiles, evaluating factors like your payment history and debt levels. A score below 680 can complicate approval processes, whereas scores above 700 typically lead to better loan terms. Even the Small Business Administration considers personal scores, with a minimum of 650, but lower scores can limit your financing options markedly. Can I Get a Business Loan if I Personally Have Bad Credit? You can still get a business loan with bad personal credit, but your options may be limited. Traditional lenders typically require a higher credit score, often above 700. If your score is below 680, you’ll face challenges. Some online lenders accept lower scores, but they often charge higher interest rates. Furthermore, programs like SBA loans might be available if your overall financial situation is strong, in spite of a low personal credit score. Can I Get a Business Loan Without Using Personal Credit? You can secure a business loan without using personal credit, but it often depends on the lender. Some online lenders and alternative options may not check personal credit; nevertheless, they typically charge higher interest rates. Many traditional lenders, on the other hand, still require a personal guarantee, linking your personal credit to the loan. If your business has a strong credit history and solid revenue, you might qualify based on those financials instead. Conclusion In conclusion, personal credit plays a crucial role in obtaining business loans, as lenders assess your credit score to determine eligibility and loan terms. A strong score can open doors to favorable financing options, whereas a lower score may limit your choices. It’s important to actively manage your personal credit and consider building a robust business credit profile. By comprehending these dynamics, you can improve your chances of securing the financial support needed for your entrepreneurial endeavors. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Role Does Personal Credit Play in Business Loans?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Personal credit plays a significant role in obtaining business loans, as lenders assess your credit score during the approval process. A score above 700 usually results in better loan terms, whereas scores under 680 can limit your financing options. This credit evaluation affects not just traditional lenders but additionally the Small Business Administration and online lenders. Comprehending how your personal credit influences these decisions can be essential for your business’s financial future. What steps can you take to strengthen your credit profile? Key Takeaways Personal credit scores significantly influence loan approval, with higher scores improving chances of securing financing for businesses. Lenders often use personal credit as a risk assessment tool, affecting interest rates and loan terms offered to borrowers. Scores below 680 complicate approvals from traditional lenders, while SBA loans may accept scores as low as 650. Strong personal credit can enhance business credit, leading to better financing options and lower costs in the long run. Effective management of personal credit through timely payments and reduced debt improves overall funding opportunities for business growth. Understanding Personal Credit Scores Comprehending personal credit scores is critical for anyone looking to secure financing, particularly for business loans. Your personal credit score, which ranges from 300 to 850, considerably influences your ability to obtain funding. Lenders often consider scores above 700 favorable, as they indicate lower credit risk. So, does personal credit affect business credit? Absolutely. A solid personal credit score can help you secure better loan terms, whereas a low score complicates approval, especially with traditional lenders. Many online lenders may accept scores below 650, but often at higher interest rates. It’s also important to understand business credit vs personal credit; although they’re distinct, your personal credit can impact your business credit. In short, do business loans use personal credit? Yes, they often do, making it vital to manage your personal credit score effectively to improve your financing options for your business. How Personal Credit Scores Are Calculated Grasping how personal credit scores are calculated is vital for anyone aiming to improve their financial standing. Your credit score hinges on five key factors. First, payment history accounts for 35% of your score; this includes any late payments or bankruptcies. Next, the debt owed contributes 30%, which assesses your debt-to-credit limit ratio. Keeping your balances low relative to your available credit is fundamental. The length of your credit history makes up 15% of the score, considering how long your credit accounts have been active. Furthermore, the types of credit used contribute 10%, indicating the variety of credit sources you have. Finally, new credit inquiries, likewise 10%, can negatively affect your score if you have multiple hard inquiries in a short timeframe, suggesting potential financial instability. Comprehending these factors helps you manage your credit effectively, leading to better financial opportunities. The Impact of Personal Credit on Loan Approval Your personal credit plays a significant role in determining whether you’ll secure a loan for your business. Lenders closely evaluate your personal credit score alongside your business credit profile. A score below 680 can complicate approvals from traditional lenders, whereas scores above 700 are typically preferred. The Small Business Administration may accept scores as low as 650, but lower scores can hinder your chances. Here’s a breakdown of how personal credit factors into loan approval: Credit Score Range Loan Approval Likelihood Below 650 Low; high interest rates 650 – 679 Moderate; potential hurdles 680 – 699 Good; may need additional info 700 – 749 Strong; favorable terms 750 and above Excellent; easy approval Options for Borrowers With Varying Credit Scores How do different credit scores affect your options when seeking a business loan? Your personal credit score plays an essential role in the types of loans available to you. Here’s what to expect based on your score: Excellent Credit (700+): You’ll likely secure favorable terms and lower interest rates from traditional lenders. Good Credit (650-700): SBA loans may be an option, but you’ll need other strong business metrics for approval. Fair Credit (600-649): Qualifying for traditional loans can be tough, yet online lenders might consider your application, albeit at higher interest rates. Poor Credit (below 600): Your options diminish considerably, and you may face challenges in securing any loan. Impact of Credit Score: Lower scores often lead to shorter loan terms and increased total interest costs. Understanding these options can help you navigate your borrowing strategy effectively. The Importance of Managing Personal Credit Managing personal credit is a fundamental aspect of securing business financing, as lenders often evaluate personal credit scores when determining a borrower’s overall creditworthiness. A solid personal credit score can improve your chances of obtaining business loans. To maintain a good score, make timely bill payments and keep credit card balances low, as this indicates reliability to lenders. Here’s a quick look at how to improve your personal credit: Action Description Impact on Credit Score Timely Payments Pay bills on time Positive Reduce Debt Lower outstanding balances Positive Keep Accounts Open Maintain older accounts Positive Limit New Applications Avoid opening too many new accounts Negative Understanding these personal credit management strategies is essential for entrepreneurs. It maximizes funding opportunities and supports business growth effectively. Building a Strong Business Credit Profile To build a strong business credit profile, start by establishing business credit accounts in your company’s name. Maintaining a low credit utilization ratio, ideally under 30%, shows lenders that you manage your finances responsibly. Establishing Business Credit Accounts Establishing business credit accounts is a vital step for any entrepreneur looking to build a strong business credit profile. To effectively do this, you should consider the following actions: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business. Open a business credit profile with major credit bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet. Apply for a business credit card to start establishing credit. Set up vendor lines of credit with suppliers that report payments. Make timely payments on all credit accounts to improve your credit score. These steps help you create a solid credit history, which is important for securing future loans and demonstrating your reliability to lenders. Regularly monitoring your credit reports for accuracy can further elevate your standing. Maintaining Low Credit Utilization Building a strong business credit profile goes beyond simply establishing accounts; maintaining a low credit utilization ratio is a key factor in demonstrating financial responsibility. Ideally, you should keep your credit utilization below 30%, with lenders favoring rates of 10% or lower. This indicates that you can manage debts effectively and aren’t overly reliant on credit. Regularly monitoring your credit utilization helps you identify areas for improvement, protecting your creditworthiness. Using American Express credit cards for operational expenses during keeping balances low can considerably improve your credit profile, nurturing trust with lenders and vendors. Credit Utilization Rate Impact on Credit Profile Below 10% Excellent 10% – 30% Good 30% – 50% Fair Above 50% Poor Frequently Asked Questions Does Personal Credit Affect a Business Loan? Yes, personal credit does affect a business loan. Lenders often evaluate your personal credit score to determine your reliability as a borrower. A score below 680 can lead to difficulties in securing traditional loans, whereas a score above 700 is usually favored. Even the Small Business Administration has minimum score requirements. Maintaining a strong personal credit profile is crucial, as it can influence both the approval process and the terms of your business financing. Does Personal Credit Rating Affect Business Loans? Yes, your personal credit rating greatly affects your ability to secure business loans. Lenders often review both personal and business credit profiles, evaluating factors like your payment history and debt levels. A score below 680 can complicate approval processes, whereas scores above 700 typically lead to better loan terms. Even the Small Business Administration considers personal scores, with a minimum of 650, but lower scores can limit your financing options markedly. Can I Get a Business Loan if I Personally Have Bad Credit? You can still get a business loan with bad personal credit, but your options may be limited. Traditional lenders typically require a higher credit score, often above 700. If your score is below 680, you’ll face challenges. Some online lenders accept lower scores, but they often charge higher interest rates. Furthermore, programs like SBA loans might be available if your overall financial situation is strong, in spite of a low personal credit score. Can I Get a Business Loan Without Using Personal Credit? You can secure a business loan without using personal credit, but it often depends on the lender. Some online lenders and alternative options may not check personal credit; nevertheless, they typically charge higher interest rates. Many traditional lenders, on the other hand, still require a personal guarantee, linking your personal credit to the loan. If your business has a strong credit history and solid revenue, you might qualify based on those financials instead. Conclusion In conclusion, personal credit plays a crucial role in obtaining business loans, as lenders assess your credit score to determine eligibility and loan terms. A strong score can open doors to favorable financing options, whereas a lower score may limit your choices. It’s important to actively manage your personal credit and consider building a robust business credit profile. By comprehending these dynamics, you can improve your chances of securing the financial support needed for your entrepreneurial endeavors. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Role Does Personal Credit Play in Business Loans?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Netflix's May slate is heavy on sports and comedy, including live events and documentaries in both categories. The streaming service will carry the full lineup of F1 Canadian GP weekend events, starting with spring qualifying on May 22 and ending with the race on May 24. Netflix will also host its first live MMA broadcast—Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano—on May 16. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup this summer, there are also a handful of soccer documentaries: USA 94: Brazil's Return to Glory (May 7) covers Brazil's World Cup run, while The Bus: A French Football Mutiny (May 13) looks at controversy surrounding France's 2010 bid. Several football-focused Untold UK episodes are dropping in May as well. Finally, Rafa (May 29) is a documentary series about Rafael Nadal's tennis career and final season. On the comedy side, competition series Funny AF with Kevin Hart will wrap up live on May 5. Also live is The Roast of Kevin Hart, airing on May 11 as part of the Netflix Is A Joke Festival. Wanda Sykes has a new standup hour (Legacy, May 19), and the month wraps up with AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Eddie Murphy (May 31), a ceremony honoring the comedian's life and work. Other highlights in May are the debut of Mating Season (May 22), a new adult animated comedy series from Big Mouth creator Nick Kroll about love, sex, and relationships in the animal world; and Ladies First (May 22), a comedy film starring Sacha Baron Cohen and Rosamund Pike. Tina Fey's comedy series The Four Seasons (May 28), in which she stars alongside Steve Carrell, also returns for a second season. Here's everything else coming to Netflix in May, and everything that's leaving. What's coming to Netflix in May 2026Available soon Jae-seok's B&B Rules!—Netflix Series Available May 1Glory—Netflix Series My Dearest Señorita—Netflix Film Son-In-Law—Netflix Film Swapped—Netflix Family 13 Going on 30 48 Hrs. Airport Airport '77 Airport 1975 Bad News Bears The Boss The Breakfast Club Burn After Reading Den of Thieves Domestic Disturbance Eat Pray Love Fried Green Tomatoes Green Book Hitch Home Jennifer's Body Jumanji Jumping the Broom La Brea: Seasons 1-3 The Land Before Time Meet the Parents Meet the Fockers Little Fockers National Lampoon's Animal House Ouija Ouija: Origin of Evil Pretty Woman The Proposal Schindler's List Starship Troopers Trainwreck Under the Skin Veronica Mars Waterworld Available May 4Dr. Seuss’s Horton!: Season 2—Netflix Family Funny AF with Kevin Hart—Netflix Live Event Lord of the Flies—Netflix Series Available May 5Funny AF with Kevin Hart—Netflix Live Event Available May 6Countdown: Rousey vs. Carano—Netflix Documentary Love is Blind Poland—Netflix Series Worst Ex Ever: Season 2—Netflix Series Available May 7The Chestnut Man: Hide and Seek—Netflix Series Legends—Netflix Series My Dearest Assassin—Netflix Film USA 94: Brazil's Return to Glory—Netflix Documentary Available May 8My Royal Nemesis—Netflix Series Remarkably Bright Creatures—Netflix Film Thank You, Next: Season 3—Netflix Series Available May 10The Roast of Kevin Hart—Netflix Live Event Available May 11Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris Pop Culture Jeopardy!—Netflix Series Available May 12Devil May Cry: Season 2—Netflix Series Marty, Life Is Short—Netflix Documentary Untold UK: Jamie Vardy—Netflix Documentary Available May 13Between Father and Son—Netflix Series The Bus: A French Football Mutiny—Netflix Documentary Perfect Match: Season 4—Netflix Series Roosters: Season 2—Netflix Series Available May 14Nemesis—Netflix Series Soul Mate—Netflix Series Available May 15Berlin and the Lady with an Ermine—Netflix Series The Crash—Netflix Documentary The WONDERfools—Netflix Series Available May 16Black Phone 2 Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano—Netflix Live Event Available May 18Abraham Lincoln: Season 1 FDR: Season 1 Grant: Season 1 The Great War Law and Order: Season 23-24 Navy SEALs: America's Secret Warriors : Seasons 1-2 Nope Theodore Roosevelt: Season 1 Thomas Jefferson: Season 1 Washington: Season 1 Available May 19Untold UK: Liverpool's Miracle of Istanbul—Netflix Documentary Wanda Sykes: Legacy—Netflix Comedy Special Available May 20Carizzma—Netflix Series Available May 21The Boroughs—Netflix Series James.—Netflix Documentary Available May 22Canada: Sprint Qualifying—Netflix Live Event F1 Canadian Grand Prix: Practice 1—Netflix Live Event Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie Ladies First—Netflix Film Mating Season—Netflix Series Available May 23F1 Canadian Grand Prix: Qualifying—Netflix Live Event F1 Canadian Grand Prix: Sprint—Netflix Live Event Available May 24F1 Canadian Grand Prix: Race—Netflix Live Event Available May 26Untold UK: Vinnie Jones—Netflix Documentary Available May 27A Good Girl's Guide to Murder: Season 2—Netflix Series My 2 Cents—Netflix Series Room to Move Available May 28Dead Man's Wire The Four Seasons: Season 2—Netflix Series Murder Mindfully: Season 2—Netflix Series Available May 29Brazil '70: The Third Star—Netflix Series Calabasas Confidential—Netflix Series Rafa—Netflix Documentary Available May 30K-Pops! Available May 31AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Eddie Murphy—Netflix Comedy Special The Theory of Everything What's leaving Netflix in May 2026Leaving May 1Blue Mountain State: Seasons 1-3 Blue Mountain State: The Rise of Thadland Focus Hell or High Water How to Train Your Dragon How to Train Your Dragon 2 Joy Ride Lee Daniels' The Butler Sicario You've Got Mail Leaving May 2Peninsula Train to Busan Leaving May 9Documentary Now!: Seasons 1-4 Sing Street Leaving May 16Widow Clicquot Leaving May 20The Addams Family The Addams Family 2 Leaving May 21Crossroads Leaving May 26Pig Leaving May 31Dirty John: Betty Broderick Dirty John: John Meehan Your Honor: Seasons 1-2 View the full article

A reader writes: Some colleagues and I have a question on interview etiquette from the interviewer side that we can’t agree on. If you give someone a job interview, should you give them a way to contact you? My thinking is, yes, if you interview a job candidate, you should give them either your work phone or work email so they can follow up if they need to. For example, what if they need to withdraw their application? Or if they have a change of phone number or email address they need to inform you about? Or if they would just like to send a thank-you/follow-up email after the interview? The other two managers on our team don’t like providing this information. They have had negative experiences in the past (one candidate calling way too often to check in, and another incident where a candidate called and yelled at the interviewer) and prefer to conduct phone interviews from a conference room phone line so their office number or work email isn’t shared. My worry is we never go back and check that conference line’s messages so if someone calls and leaves a message, they may be frustrated if no one returns their calls. Also, I think how candidates do or do not follow up can give us good information on if we should hire them (for example, the guy who called and yelled was not hired!). So what is considered standard practice? And does it change depending on first-round interviews vs second-round or in-person vs over the phone? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. The post should I give job candidates a way to contact me? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

While its geographic footprint is all west of the Mississippi, convenience store operator Yesway Inc. is making New York City headlines this week with its initial public offering (IPO). The company expects to begin trading Wednesday on the Nasdaq under the YSWY ticker. In the wake of global convenience store giant 7-Eleven announcing that it will close over 600 locations in the United States, it’s an interesting time for a smaller convenience store chain on the rise to go public. Seven & i Holdings, the Japan-based owner of 7-Eleven, recently delayed an IPO of its North American unit. Yesway hasn’t yet announced any plans for an expansion of its 440-plus-store, nine-state footprint, but the first returns on the IPO pave the way for that in the future. The company also owns the Allsup’s convenience store chain. Here’s what you need to know about Yesway, which is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. What is Yesway? Yesway Inc. is the owner of the Yesway and Allsup’s convenience store chains, with 448 locations across nine states, most prominently in West Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Iowa. Yesway opened in 2015 with the financial backing of Boston-based Brookwood Financial Partners, and has since expanded. The company is known for selling Allsup’s Burritos, but it also sells all of your typical convenience store goods, such as coffee, hot food, snacks, fountain drinks, and alcohol. Last year, Yesway generated revenue of $2.67 billion and reported net income of $54 million, according to a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC). When is Yesway’s IPO? Yesway priced its shares on Tuesday and expects to begin trading today. It filed for IPO initially in 2021, but withdrew in 2022 due to rising interest rates, Bloomberg reports. In a more active IPO market, it refiled and is finally offering now. What is Yesway’s Stock Ticker? The company will be traded under the YSWY ticker on the Nasdaq exchange. What is the IPO share price of Yesway? The IPO share price for Yesway is $20. How much will Yesway raise in its IPO? Yesway sold approximately 14 million shares at that $20 price point, raising $280 million. How much is Yesway worth? That IPO price gives Yesway a valuation of approximately $1.2 billion, Bloomberg estimates. View the full article

SpaceX still has deep roots in the rocket business, but the Elon Musk-owned company is doubling down on artificial intelligence as it prepares for an IPO. In a social media post Monday afternoon, SpaceX announced it had started a working relationship with AI coding startup Cursor, which includes an option to buy the company for $60 billion. (Should SpaceX decide against buying Cursor, it will pay $10 billion for its work.) “The combination of Cursor’s leading product and distribution to expert software engineers with SpaceX’s million H100 equivalent Colossus training supercomputer will allow us to build the world’s most useful models,” the company said in the post. The announcement comes just over two months after SpaceX acquired Musk’s xAI, which runs the Grok chatbot. It also comes as the rocket company prepares for what is expected to be a record-setting IPO later this year, potentially bringing in billions of dollars. Cursor is a standalone startup that offers AI that writes code and debugs software, much like Anthropic’s Claude Code and OpenAI’s Codex. The product is called Composer. The tool, which has been publicly praised by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, learns a developer’s coding style, then autocompletes, reviews, and, when necessary, edits code. Users can switch between different AI models at present, which has increased Cursor’s costs. Composer has achieved cult status among many tech companies, though critics say Composer can be slow, especially when used with larger codebases. (It also suffered a PR black eye when its customer support AI hallucinated, triggering a wave of cancellations.) While many investors expect AI companies to play a major role in future development, the systems are currently major financial drains. xAI, for instance, reported a net loss of $1.46 billion in the quarter ending Sept. 30, 2025, and lost $1 billion the quarter before that. More than 60% of SpaceX’s 2025 revenue came from the Starlink satellite internet service, according to reports based on the company’s confidential IPO paperwork. Still, the company is reinventing itself with a heavy focus on AI as that IPO looms. Cursor was founded in 2023 by four MIT graduates, all still in their 20s. It raised $2.3 billion in funding last November from investors including Nvidia and Google, giving it a valuation of $29.3 billion at the time. The SpaceX offer is more than twice that amount. The founders had previously resisted takeover offers from major AI companies. Michael Truell, co-founder and chief executive officer of Cursor, told The Wall Street Journal last year that “all of the AI labs are important partners to us.” An acquisition by SpaceX would likely change Cursor’s relationship with AI giants such as OpenAI and Anthropic, which are xAI competitors (and the history between Musk and OpenAI is a tense one, to put it mildly, with a fierce court battle between the two beginning soon). “Excited to partner with the SpaceX team to scale up Composer,” Truell wrote on X after the deal was announced. “A meaningful step on our path to build the best place to code with AI.” Musk has been focusing more attention on the AI sector recently. In addition to merging SpaceX and xAI, he unveiled plans last month for the Terafab chip manufacturing factory in Austin, Texas, which will produce chips for SpaceX and xAI. While xAI and other artificial intelligence companies have largely depended on TSMC, Samsung, and Micron for the chips that power their systems, Musk said existing semiconductor manufacturers were not producing chips fast enough for his needs. Intel said earlier this month it had joined forces with Musk to help with manufacturing at the facility, though details about the arrangement were not announced. View the full article

Human beings are obsessed with change. As large scale scientific studies show, most of us would like to change at least some aspects of our personality, defined as consistent patterns of behaviors or habits that make us who we are and different from others. For example, I’d love to be less impulsive, excitable, or cynical, which is why I have been working on not being myself for many years. Likewise, most individuals want to grow, to develop new adaptations that make them a better version of themselves, and organizations are equally interested in transforming, which typically depends on their people’s ability to grow and evolve. At its core, change is not about becoming someone else. Rather, it is about becoming a less exaggerated or extreme version of yourself. Most of our strengths, when overused, become weaknesses. Confidence becomes arrogance, attention to detail turns into obsessional perfectionism, and resilience mutates into stubbornness or “false hopes” in the face of problems and challenges that undermine our potential. Real development is not reinvention but calibration. Think of it as the ability to regulate your natural tendencies so they fit the demands of the situation, or optimize your behavior to develop better adaptations and become a more versatile and effective version of yourself, keeping your limitations and flaws in check, especially in high-stakes or critical situations. Sadly, left to our own devices, we rarely change. Human behavior is remarkably stable. Personality traits show high levels of consistency over time, and even when people receive feedback, they tend to interpret it in ways that protect their self-image. We are biased toward seeing ourselves as better than we are, and we systematically underestimate the gap between how we see ourselves and how others see us. This is where coaching comes in… The evidence is clear: coaching works, but not always, and not equally for all. A landmark meta-analysis by Tim Theeboom and colleagues found that coaching has significant positive effects on performance, well-being, coping, and goal attainment, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to large. More recent meta-analyses confirm that workplace coaching consistently leads to positive organizational outcomes, particularly when it focuses on behavior change. The key insight is that coaching is not a placebo. It is a scientifically validated intervention. But like most interventions, its effectiveness depends on how it is designed and delivered, who it’s delivered by, and of course who the recipient of coaching is. Some coaching relationships are transformative. Others are pleasant but inconsequential, like chatting to a friend of hairdresser. The difference is rarely about whether coaching “works” in principle. It is about whether the right coach is matched to the right person, for the right goal, in the right way. Four factors Choosing a coach, therefore, should be treated as a high-stakes decision. Yet most people approach it casually, relying on reputation, referrals, or vague impressions of “chemistry.” That is not enough. There are four factors that matter most. 1) First, personality chemistry and style fit. Coaching is fundamentally a relationship, and like any relationship, it depends on trust. But chemistry is not just about liking someone. It is about alignment between the coach’s style and the coachee’s needs. Some coaches are direct and confrontational, excelling at telling people what they need to hear, even when they really don’t want to hear it. They challenge assumptions, provide blunt feedback, and push for rapid change. Others are more facilitative and supportive, helping individuals reflect and arrive at their own conclusions. Neither approach is inherently superior. The question is which one works for you. If you are defensive, overconfident, or prone to dismiss feedback, you may need a coach who is willing to confront you. If you are already self-critical or risk-averse, a more supportive approach may be more effective. The goal is not comfort, but progress. There is also a personality dimension. Research suggests that similarity can build rapport, but difference can drive growth. A coach who mirrors your worldview may feel comfortable but may not stretch you. A coach who is too different may create friction without insight. The optimal point is somewhere in between: enough overlap to build trust, enough difference to challenge your thinking. 2) Second, method fit to goal. Not all coaching is the same, and not all goals require the same approach. If your objective is to improve a specific skill, such as communication or decision-making, a structured, behavioral approach with clear feedback loops may be most effective. If your challenge is more psychological, such as managing derailers, improving self-awareness, or navigating interpersonal dynamics, a deeper, more reflective approach may be required. Some coaches draw on cognitive-behavioral techniques. Others rely on psychodynamic frameworks, systems thinking, or data-driven assessments. Increasingly, coaching is also augmented by analytics and AI. None of these approaches is universally better. What matters is alignment with the outcome you seek. Too often, organizations adopt a one-size-fits-all approach to coaching, offering the same intervention regardless of the problem. This is equivalent to prescribing the same medication for every illness. It is convenient, but ineffective. 3) Third, expertise and proficiency. The coaching industry is largely unregulated, which means quality varies significantly. Anyone can call themselves a coach. Not everyone should, and not everyone is qualified. It is not enough for a coach to have a preferred method. They need to be good at it. This includes formal training, relevant experience, and, critically, a track record of impact. Have they worked with people at your level? Do they understand your context? Can they translate insight into action? In an era where AI can generate generic advice instantly, the value of a coach lies not in providing information, but in interpreting it, contextualizing it, and applying it to your specific situation. As I have argued in I, Human, the differentiator in the AI age is not access to answers, but the quality of judgment applied to those answers. A good coach enhances your judgment. A mediocre one simply adds noise. 4) Fourth, and avoid stagnation through measurement and iteration. Coaching should not be an open-ended, indefinite process. It should be structured, with clear goals, regular checkpoints, and measurable outcomes. This is where many coaching engagements fall short. They focus on conversations rather than outcomes. They create insight, but not change. Effective coaching requires experimentation. Try new behaviors, gather feedback, adjust, and repeat. It also requires measurement. Progress should be assessed not only through self-reports, but through observable indicators. These may include improvements in team engagement, changes in leadership behavior as captured by 360 feedback, enhanced performance metrics, or even hard business outcomes. Research suggests that coaching has its strongest impact on behavioral change, which is precisely what should be measured. Indeed, without measurement, coaching risks becoming what much of corporate life already is: well-intentioned but performative. The AI role In many ways, selecting a coach is similar to selecting a leader. You are making a bet on someone’s ability to influence behavior and drive outcomes. You would not make that decision lightly in a business context. You should not make it lightly here. In the age of AI, the stakes are even higher. As machines take over more of the cognitive heavy lifting, the human edge will depend on adaptability, self-awareness, and the ability to evolve. Coaching, when done right, can enhance all three. The right coach will not change who you are. They will help you become a more effective version of yourself. They will challenge your assumptions, expose your blind spots, and help you build the adaptations you need to succeed so that the best version of yourself shows up more frequently, and the worst version is contained or silenced, at least during critical work interactions. View the full article

Bob Dylan, a native of the Upper Midwest, famously crooned that “the times they are a-changin’.” Nowhere is that more prescient now than in and around the Midwest’s largest city, Chicago, which is attempting to shed its skin as a Rust Belt metropolis and be born anew in the twenty-first century as the capital of the “Silicon Prairie,” a hub for the burgeoning quantum computing industry. It’s a literal transformation, too. The decommissioned U.S. Steel South Works, a decaying U.S. Steel foundry that once employed tens of thousands of people and shut down in 1992, is being resurrected as the new Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), a 128-acre campus that will host quantum companies and technology development, due for completion in 2027. Matt Herman, senior vice president and project principal for engineering and professional services firm WSP, which is taking a heavy role in the project’s development, says that the project is notable for several reasons, but the physical site’s location is particularly noteworthy. “U.S. Steel ran their facilities there for decades, and it’s well-documented the decline in the number of employees that the steel mill had,” due to automation and globalization, “and at the end of the day, the steel mill was cleared, demolished, and sold off,” he says. “But the foundation remained.” A Rust Belt foundation for quantum computation? That foundation—which is as much physical concrete as it is the talent and people who live in and around the site—is now giving rise to a new industry, quantum computing, in place of the old one. And the IQMP park is only one part of a greater plan to draw the quantum industry to the region; however, an effort that is being spearheaded by the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE). “The CQE is a consortium of universities, Department of Energy National Labs, and companies that are global in nature, with concentric circles leading to the Midwest and Chicago,” says Kate Waimey Timmerman, CEO of the CQE. Timmerman says the CQE started in 2017 with the National Labs and universities at its core, and has since expanded—it includes member institutions The University of Chicago, Argonne National Laboratory, Fermilab, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Northwestern University, and Purdue University. It also has more than 50 corporate partners, which include Fortune 500 firms, all the way down to tiny quantum startups. The goal, she says, is to focus on research, commercialization, and building a workforce for the quantum industry, and its “overarching goal is to build an integrated discovery through deployment ecosystem.” In other words, through collective effort, the member institutions engage in basic research, which can then be applied and turned into products and technologies. That can include the creation of quantum sensors for airlines, the discovery of new drugs and materials, and more. But why Chicago? A combination of factors: Several big, research-focused universities kicking out quantum talent, along with access to federal laboratories, first and foremost. “The Midwest has always had these phenomenal resources, these huge and impactful research institutions and phenomenal talent—for decades, the Midwest has been the driver of quantum talent,” Timmerman says, “but they didn’t have a place to go for their careers unless they wanted to be in academia. What our ecosystem is aiming to do is catalyze all those resources that have been here for decades and turn the region into one where you can grow quantum companies and their careers.” A quantum hub is needed, too, as quantum computing is quickly becoming viable and commercialized. “The exciting thing about quantum is that there’s a ubiquitous way that these technologies can revolutionize industries—because of where we see quantum computing accelerating the value chain fundamentally in industries—chemistry, biology, physics—it affects everyone,” says Jordan Kenyon, chief scientist at Booz Allen Hamilton’s quantum portfolio. The issue, Kenyon says, is that there isn’t yet a pipeline for quantum scientists and workers. “We need more quantum scientists,” she says, adding that the “technology is moving at such an unprecedented pace” that the industry needs to beef up for what’s ahead. “As a nation, we need to cultivate a multi-disciplinary, mission-focused workforce that can develop, integrate, and operate the technologies wherever they’re applied.” A cross-state and bipartisan effort That is one of the primary goals of the broader initiatives to develop the Midwest into Silicon Prairie. Those initiatives, too, are even leading to some unlikely bedfellows. For example, Illinois and Indiana—two states often at polar ends of the spectrum in terms of political affiliations—have worked closely together to nurture the region’s quantum consortium. That may be because the region is in something of an arms race with other, similar efforts, such as the Capital of Quantum in Maryland and the Washington D.C. area, and the Northwest Quantum Nexus in the Pacific Northwest. Ryan Lafler, CTO of Quantum Corridor, a quantum networking infrastructure that stretches 12 miles across the Illinois-Indiana state line, says that fueling the quantum sector is “a bipartisan issue, and a bipartisan effort.” Quantum Corridor also recently announced that, in partnership with Toshiba, it successfully demonstrated quantum-secured communications between data centers in both states. “This is a bi-state cooperation; it was built out of a public-private partnership,” he says. Both Democratic Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois and Republican Mike Braun of Indiana “see this as a really pivotal project to connect Northwest Indiana to Chicago,” and have worked together to make it happen. The incentives provided by the states are another critical piece of the puzzle for creating a Midwest quantum hub, along with the consortium of universities and laboratories, and the talent pool. For instance, there are tax incentives for quantum companies and projects in Indiana, and public funding for quantum projects (such as the IQMP) in Illinois, along with other investments. Herman notes as well that “Governor Pritzker has been really effective at leaning in to create incentives” for the industry, and that quantum talent and companies are now “coming for the incentives,” and that includes the ability to work with or at the facilities at sites like IQMP. The Corridor, too, is going to play a big role as a piece of underlying infrastructure helping grow the Midwest’s quantum sector. While Chicago jockeys with other parts of the country to become the next Silicon Valley, perhaps what’s ultimately the most compelling element to the story is that the people in and around Chicago will see a literal rebirth of an industry. That’s particularly true for Terry Cronin, VP of Business Development and Quantum Key Distribution Evangelist at Toshiba, which also had a hand in developing the Quantum Corridor. It’s “very unique that red and blue states are working together, and that they both recognize that the area is larger than their state boundaries,” he says, adding that the growing industry will go far in revitalizing some communities that never fully recovered from the decline in manufacturing over the past several decades. “My dad actually worked in the steel plant back in the 1950s,” says Cronin, about the U.S. Steel facility that’s being rebuilt as the IQMP. “It’s a neat thing to see where we’ve moved from that industry to now, designing the future.” View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The Nike Run Club app is a longtime favorite for many runners, and for good reason. It offers GPS tracking, guided runs led by coaches and athletes, structured training plans, and a social layer that lets you cheer on friends and compete on leaderboards. But like a lot of polished apps, a handful of its most useful tricks aren't spelled out anywhere official. Whether you downloaded NRC last week to get into running for the first time, or you're been logging miles on it for years, these hacks will help you get more out of every run. Sort your runs to track your progress and challenge yourselfYou might be satisfied scrolling through your activity feed in reverse chronological order and never think to sort it differently. But being able to instantly surface your longest run ever (or your fastest mile, or what have you) is a great way to both celebrate progress and benchmark where you are right now. This one sounds obvious, but it's surprisingly not intuitive on the app. In fact, I found this tip buried in a Reddit comment thread. Here's how to do it: open NRC, go to Activity → All Activity, then tap the Filter button in the top right corner. From there, select Sort By and choose from options like Longest Distance, Fastest Pace, and more. Once you know how to find your personal records, you can take it a step further: use those past efforts as competition. One of my favorite ways to stay motivated is revisit a previous run and essentially race against it. Use the beginner-friendly 'First Run' to improve pacing even as a proNRC's "First Run" guided run is ostensibly designed for beginners, which is exactly why most experienced runners skip right past it. Here's my tip: Don't! Even as seasoned runner myself, I found real value in it this guided run. It forced me to recalibrate my internal pacing. Plus, it felt like necessary onboarding for the app itself, taking you through how NRC coaching actually works. It covers how the audio cues are timed, how effort-based prompts land mid-run, how to mentally engage with the coaching format rather than just tolerating it as background noise. If you've ever zoned out during a guided run or felt like the coaching wasn't landing, there's a good chance you've been passively receiving it rather than actively running with it. Maybe you really, truly don't need to revisit the basics of running slower than you think you should. In this case, think of the 'first run' less as a beginner workout, and more as an onboarding session you probably skipped. Use a minimalist background to protect your privacy when sharing your routesA few years ago, NRC made it easy to share your route on a stripped-down, street-name-free background. I know I love sharing the shape of my run without broadcasting exactly where I live or train. That option became harder to find over time, and some users are left missing it. There are now two ways to get this minimalist background: one annoying, and one easy. The annoying way: After your run uploads, tap the three dots → Share → Route (to the left of "Camera Roll") → More → Remove Background in CapCut. That last step kicks you out of NRC and into CapCut, which I personally don't feel like using. Sorry! The easier way: Share → Posters (to the right of "Camera Roll"), then scroll through the poster options until you find the simplest black or gray background available. That gives you a clean, minimal route display without leaving the app or involving a third-party editor. If privacy or aesthetics matter to you when posting your runs, this is the move. Use a companion app to add back lost distance during speed workoutsWhen you do one of NRC's interval workouts, the app tracks your hard efforts, but it doesn't record your recovery laps. That means your total elapsed time and distance are both undercounted by the time the workout ends. The real workaround is to run a second app simultaneously. Strava works well for this, as does a GPS watch if you have one. When your run is done, you'll have an accurate total distance from the secondary source. You can then go back into NRC, find the interval run, and manually edit the distance to reflect what you actually covered. It's an extra step, but if your weekly mileage tracking matters to you—or you're following a training plan where volume is the point—it's worth doing. Get the guidance you want—without all the monologuesYou may be a part of Coach Bennett's cult-like following, but that doesn't mean every one of your guided runs needs a lengthy motivational monologue. Unfortunately, there's no in-app setting for you to commit the blasphemous sin that is cutting off a coach's speech. Instead, use this workaround: Once the speech starts, exit the app. Wait a few seconds, then re-open the app. This cuts off the coach's speech without pausing your run. You have to do this manually every time you want to skip through your trainer's words of wisdom, but at least it works. Otherwise, a certain amount of customization is readily available. Some runners want a check-in every half mile; others find that disruptive and prefer updates every two miles. Some want pace, distance, and time every time; others only care about pace. In you run settings, you can adjust the frequency of audio updates (how often you hear your time, distance, and pace), toggle individual metrics on or off depending on what you actually want to know mid-run, and choose between different voice options for the coaching and cues. View the full article

Don’t be afraid of giving too much information away. By August Aquila MAX: Maximize Productivity, Profitability and Client Retention Go PRO for members-only access to more August J. Aquila. View the full article

Don’t be afraid of giving too much information away. By August Aquila MAX: Maximize Productivity, Profitability and Client Retention Go PRO for members-only access to more August J. Aquila. View the full article

Marketing encompasses many things. By Ed Mendlowitz Call Me Before You Do Anything: The Art of Accounting Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

Marketing encompasses many things. By Ed Mendlowitz Call Me Before You Do Anything: The Art of Accounting Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

There’s a surprising amount of science in a bag of potato chips. Researchers have spent decades developing potatoes for chip makers that can grow in all kinds of climates, avoid diseases and pests, sit in storage for months and still deliver a satisfying crunch. They’ve also kept an eye on consumer trends; a shift to snack-size portions has increased the demand for smaller chipping potatoes, for example. “The potato industry is dynamic,” said David Douches, a Michigan State University professor who leads the school’s Potato Breeding and Genetics Program. “The needs change, the costs, the pressures that they have, and the markets change. So we have to adapt to that with our varieties.” Douches has developed five new potato varieties for chips in the the last 15 years. His latest breakthrough is a bioengineered potato that can maintain a proper sugar balance when stored at colder temperatures, which can help keep potatoes from rotting. He is currently growing seeds for commercial testing of the potato, which is not yet on the market. Douches’ work helps fight world hunger; he has developed disease-resistant varieties for farmers in Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and Bangladesh. But he’s also helping U.S. chip makers, grateful snackers and Michigan’s $2.5 billion potato industry. While Idaho leads the U.S. in potato production, Michigan is the top producer of potatoes for chips. There are around 50 unique potato varieties grown for chips in the U.S. right now, according to the National Chip Program, a cooperative that brings together Michigan State and 11 other university breeding programs with growers, companies that make chips, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Efforts to improve those varieties are constant. The National Chip Program evaluates around 225 new potato varieties each year and selects 100 for further trials, said Tim Rendall, the director of production research at Potatoes USA, a trade group that oversees the chip program. The close partnership between researchers, farmers and potato chip companies is unusual in the food industry, said Phil Gusmano, the vice president of purchasing at Better Made Snack Foods, which has produced potato chips in Detroit since 1930. Better Made worked closely with Douches when he was developing two of the varieties the company uses now, Gusmano said. “We were able talk about size profile and different needs that make a really good chip,” Gusmano said. “And the great thing is, they’re willing to listen to what we have to say, because if they put together a potato that doesn’t really meet the needs for the end processor, it doesn’t do them any good.” Breeding a new type of potato can take up to 15 years, Douches said. The simple potato has a surprisingly complicated genetic structure, with four chromosomes in each cell compared to two in most species, including humans. That makes it harder to predict which traits that cross-bred plants will inherit, he said. “We’re never able to fix a trait and carry that over to the next generation, so it’s very difficult to find a potato that has all the traits that we want,” Douches said. Douches became fascinated with potato breeding and genetics while in graduate school. At Michigan State, he focuses on chipping potatoes, since Michigan is a leading producer. Around 70% of the state’s potato crop is destined for chip processing, according to the Michigan Ag Council. The trade group estimates that one of every four bags of potato chips produced in the U.S. contains Michigan potatoes. Breeding potatoes that can sit in storage for nearly a year has been one of the biggest challenges in Douches’ 40-year career. Historically, farmers harvested potatoes and then stored them in huge piles at around 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). Temperatures any colder cause sugar levels to rise in the root vegetables, and higher sugar content leads to darker potato chips. But warmer storage conditions can lead to rot. “You think they’re just these inanimate objects, but they actually are respiring and breathing,” Douches said. “When you do that to them, you’ve got, like, a two- to three-day window where they’re happy.” His Manistee variety, which was released in 2013, can be safely stored until July at 45 F (7.2 C) degrees. His new bioengineered potato can be stored at 40 F (4.4 C). Gusmano said Better Made used to source potatoes from outside of Michigan for half the year because the Michigan potatoes it harvested in the fall only could be stored until February. The company now uses newer varieties, like Douches’ Mackinaw potato, which can be stored until July and is resistant to several common diseases. “We’re not shipping potatoes from all over the country to be fried here in Michigan,” Gusmano said. “Instead, they’re being shipped from an hour and a half away all year long.” —Dee-Ann Durbin and Mike Householder, Associated Press View the full article

Grasping the meaning of a franchisee is crucial for anyone considering entering the realm of franchising. A franchisee buys the rights to run a business under an established brand, which comes with a proven business model and support. Before jumping in, you need to evaluate your skills, finances, and interests. By exploring various franchise types, you can identify which aligns with your goals. Curious about what steps to take next? Key Takeaways A franchisee is a business owner who purchases rights to operate under an established brand and benefits from franchisor support. Franchise ownership provides access to a proven business model, enhancing success rates and customer trust. Assess your transferable skills, financial resources, and personal readiness before pursuing franchise ownership. Explore different franchise types, such as product distribution, investment, and job franchises, to align with your goals. Success as a franchisee involves operational excellence, team development, and leveraging continuous support from the franchisor. What Is a Franchisee? A franchisee is fundamentally a business owner who buys the rights to operate under a well-known brand, such as McDonald’s or The UPS Store. The franchisee meaning involves purchasing a business model from a franchisor, which is a company that grants these rights. By doing so, you gain access to established trademarks, proven marketing strategies, and operational support, enhancing consumer trust. Nevertheless, you must pay an initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties, which can vary by brand. As a franchisee, you operate independently but must follow the franchisor’s guidelines to maintain brand consistency. Your franchise agreement will outline territorial rights, contract duration, and training obligations, ensuring compliance with the established business model. The Benefits of Becoming a Franchisee Becoming a franchisee offers numerous advantages that can greatly improve your business expedition. Here are some key benefits you can expect: Established Brand: You’ll operate under a recognized name, enhancing customer trust and visibility. Proven Business Model: Accessing a successful framework increases your chances of success compared to independent ventures. Marketing Support: You can leverage franchisor advertising efforts, reducing your need for personal marketing investments while benefiting from national recognition. Flexible Lifestyle: Many franchises provide adaptable hours and low ongoing costs, allowing you to balance work and life as you aim for substantial earnings, often exceeding £100k annually. These benefits combine to create a compelling case for considering franchise ownership as a viable business option. Assessing Your Readiness for Franchise Ownership How can you determine if you’re truly ready for franchise ownership? Start by evaluating your transferable skills, like leadership and customer service, which are vital for successfully managing a franchise. Next, review your financial resources, including savings, credit, and financing options, to guarantee you can cover initial investments and ongoing fees. Reflect on the time and effort required, as many franchises demand substantial commitment in the early stages. It’s additionally fundamental to align the franchise with your personal strengths and interests, enhancing motivation and success potential. Finally, conduct a self-evaluation to see if your past experiences match the operational challenges of running a franchise, paving the way for informed decision-making in your path ahead. Types of Franchises and Their Characteristics When considering franchise ownership, it’s essential to understand the different types available, as each type has unique characteristics and operational guidelines. For instance, business format franchises offer a thorough system for operation and marketing, whereas investment franchises require a more substantial financial commitment and focus on managing multiple teams. Major Franchise Types Franchising offers various models customized to different business needs, making it essential to understand the major types of franchises. Here are four key types: Product Distribution Franchises: You distribute goods from the franchisor, acting as an intermediary, like Coca-Cola or John Deere. Investment Franchises: These require significant financial investment and often involve managing multiple locations, where you take a more passive role. Job Franchises: Ideal for individual entrepreneurs, these focus on small businesses with lower initial investments and emphasize service delivery. Conversion Franchises: You convert an existing independent business into a franchise, benefiting from established brand recognition. Understanding these types will help you select a franchise that aligns with your goals and capabilities. Business Format Franchises Business format franchises stand out due to their structured approach, which offers franchisees an extensive system for running their operations. In this model, the franchisor maintains significant control over key aspects, ensuring brand consistency and a unified customer experience across all locations. As a franchisee, you’ll need to follow strict operational guidelines, including product offerings, pricing strategies, and service protocols, set by the franchisor. This structure not only helps maintain quality but also simplifies your management process. Furthermore, business format franchises often allow for multiple units, enabling you to scale your operations and potentially increase your income by overseeing several locations. Successful examples include renowned brands like McDonald’s and The UPS Store, illustrating the model’s effectiveness in various industries. Investment Franchise Characteristics Investment franchises present a unique opportunity for individuals looking to invest significant capital while benefiting from established brands. These franchises typically focus on sectors like hotels, restaurants, and retail, allowing you to leverage the franchisor’s reputation. Here are some key characteristics: High Initial Investment: Expect to invest between $100,000 and over $1 million. Passive Role: You’ll often manage multiple locations or teams, avoiding daily operations. Established Systems: Franchisors provide operational frameworks to guarantee consistency and efficiency. Potential Risks and Rewards: Although high returns are possible, thorough financial assessments are crucial before committing. Successful candidates usually have strong management skills, significant financial resources, and a commitment to follow established guidelines from the franchisor. Key Steps to Becoming a Successful Franchisee Before you jump into franchise ownership, it’s essential to assess your personal readiness, including your skills and financial situation. Once you have a clear comprehension of your capabilities, start researching franchise options that align with your interests and values. This thorough evaluation will set the foundation for a successful franchise expedition. Assess Personal Readiness Evaluating your personal readiness to become a franchisee is a vital step in the process toward successful business ownership. To guarantee you’re prepared, consider these key factors: Transferable Skills: Identify your strengths in areas like leadership, customer service, and financial management, as these are critical for franchise success. Financial Readiness: Review your savings and credit history to confirm you can cover the initial investment and ongoing fees. Time Commitment: Reflect on the significant dedication needed to manage a franchise effectively, meeting operational and customer service expectations. Alignment: Confirm the franchise aligns with your interests and strengths, as this increases your chances of success and satisfaction in your new venture. Research Franchise Options Researching franchise options is crucial for anyone looking to become a successful franchisee, as it helps you identify opportunities that not merely match your interests but also meet the demands of your local market. Start by conducting thorough market research to find franchises that align with community needs, guaranteeing profitability. Carefully evaluate the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for vital financial data and investment requirements. Networking with existing franchisees can provide valuable insights into their experiences and the support from the franchisor. Assess the franchisor’s training programs and ongoing support to make sure you’ll have the resources needed for success. Finally, consider attending franchise expos and workshops to explore various brands and gather information to make an informed decision. Understanding Franchise Costs and Financing Options Comprehending the costs associated with franchising is fundamental for anyone considering this business model, as these expenses can vary widely based on the brand and industry. To help you navigate this terrain, here are key financial considerations: Initial Franchise Fees: These can range from $20,000 to over $100,000, depending on the brand. Ongoing Royalties: Typically a percentage of your sales, these fees support franchisor services. Marketing Contributions: Franchisors may require additional fees to support brand promotion. Working Capital: Budgeting for operational costs and unexpected expenses is vital during the startup phase. Exploring financing options, such as bank loans or SBA loans, can help you meet these costs and assess your financial readiness. Operational Excellence in Franchise Management Operational excellence in franchise management is fundamental for achieving long-term success and profitability. Implementing best practices in inventory management and cost control helps maintain efficiency and profitability. Consistency in service delivery meets customer expectations and reinforces your brand reputation across all locations. You should focus on creating a memorable customer experience through high-quality service and engagement, as this can substantially boost customer loyalty and repeat business. Collaborating closely with your franchisor during the location selection process can improve visibility and foot traffic, contributing to overall success. Finally, investing in team training and development is imperative; skilled employees are critical for effectively representing your brand and delivering exceptional experiences to customers, eventually driving sales and growth. Continuous Support and Development for Franchisees Continuous support and development are crucial for franchisees, as they navigate the challenges of running a successful business. By leveraging the resources provided by franchisors, you can improve your operations and growth potential. Key components of this support include: Ongoing Training Programs: Stay updated on industry best practices and operational improvements. Network of Fellow Franchisees: Collaborate and share experiences, creating a supportive community. Marketing Resources: Access strategic guidance to effectively attract and retain customers. Regular Assessments: Identify areas for improvement and capitalize on growth opportunities. These initiatives, including workshops and seminars, are designed to help you boost your skills and adapt to ever-changing market conditions, eventually contributing to your business’s success. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Meaning of Franchisee in Business? A franchisee is someone who purchases the rights to operate a business under an established brand. You’ll typically pay an initial fee and ongoing royalties to the franchisor, who provides support and training. As a franchisee, you manage your own business while following the franchisor’s guidelines. This arrangement allows you to tap into a proven business model, which can improve your chances of success compared to starting an independent business from scratch. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. You need to offer high-quality products that align with your franchisor’s brand. When setting prices, make sure they’re competitive but follow the franchisor’s guidelines. Choosing the right Place is vital; consider demographics and foot traffic for accessibility. Finally, leverage the franchisor’s Promotion strategies to improve your marketing efforts and attract customers effectively to grow your franchise successfully. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It costs only $10,000 to own a Chick-fil-A franchise since the company covers most startup costs, including construction and equipment. This low initial fee contrasts sharply with other franchises that can exceed $100,000. Nevertheless, you must be heavily involved in daily operations, which helps reduce overhead. Moreover, Chick-fil-A employs a profit-sharing model, allowing the company to retain a significant portion of revenue as franchisees earn a percentage of sales. What Is Your Understanding of the Role of a Franchisee? A franchisee’s role involves operating a business under a franchisor’s established brand. You manage daily operations, ensuring compliance with brand standards and maintaining quality. This includes paying an initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties, which support access to proven marketing strategies. You likewise benefit from training and operational guidance provided by the franchisor. Conducting thorough research, including reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document, is crucial to understand your financial obligations and growth potential. Conclusion In summary, comprehending the role of a franchisee is crucial for anyone contemplating this path in business. By recognizing the benefits, evaluating your readiness, and exploring different franchise types, you can make informed decisions. The key steps to success involve not merely financial planning but additionally operational management and continuous support from the franchisor. With careful preparation and dedication, you can effectively navigate the franchise environment and work in the direction of achieving your entrepreneurial goals. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Understanding Franchisee Meaning – A How-To Guide for Aspiring Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article