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The Super Bowl LX ad blitz was a big budget highwire act—from Anthropic’s shot at OpenAI to Lady Gaga’s homage to Mr. Rogers and Dunkin’s nostalgia-fueled celeb fest. Autodesk CMO Dara Treseder breaks down what worked, what didn’t, and what the ads reveal about where marketing is headed next. Treseder also unpacks the business impact of Bad Bunny’s halftime show, and what it signals for the NFL and Apple. This is an abridged transcript of an interview from Rapid Response, hosted by former Fast Company editor-in-chief Robert Safian. From the team behind the Masters of Scale podcast, Rapid Response features candid conversations with today’s top business leaders navigating real-time challenges. Subscribe to Rapid Response wherever you get your podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode. I have to say that the on-field game wasn’t much of a contest, kind of a blowout, but plenty of trick plays and Hail Marys in the ad battle. The cost for a 30-second ad this year was somewhere between $8 [million] and $10 million to place. You talk about ROMI—return on marketing investment—what’s worthwhile, what breaks through. Just quick off the bat, any big winners or losers that jumped out at you? There were some big winners. I think Anthropic was a big winner this year. Rocket and Pepsi were big winners this year. So we can go into details, but off the bat, I would say those were some of the big winners this year. I saw a lot of mentions in the other lists of the Dunkin ad, the “Good Will Dunkin’” spot fronted by Ben Affleck. Does it fit on all of the criteria that you’re looking at? So I thought that that ad was sincere. You saw a lot of insincere use of celebrity. The only winners this year from a celebrity standpoint were the celebrities who got paid. Okay? A lot of brands used celebrities in ways that they really did not need to do that. Over $250 million was spent on celebrity placements for these Super Bowl ads. That’s a quarter of a billion dollars. Wow. And the ROI was really not there. In fact, 60% of the Super Bowl ads this year used celebrities, and many did not use them intentionally or use them well. I think “Good Will Dunkin’” was where celebrity use made sense. We all know one thing is true about Ben Affleck. He does like a Jennifer, and he does like Dunkin’ Donuts. And like some of the more artsy highbrow ads, like Emma Stone for Squarespace or Adrien Brody’s TurboTax—sort of purposely overacting. That was effective or sort of modest? I think it was modest. I don’t think it quite cut through as well. I would say that the Squarespace one was simple. Get a domain name using Squarespace. Many people might have thought about Squarespace to design their website, but not necessarily like, “I’m not even ready to design yet, but have I gotten my domain name yet?” That “If emmastone.com is unavailable, girl, what you sitting on? Go get your domain name right now”—that cut through. I even had my kid say, “Mommy, should I get my domain name?” I was, like, “Wow, this is cutting through all generations right now.” We’ve got an 8-year-old wanting to figure out if he needs to get his domain name or not. He better. Otherwise, someone else is going to get it. He better. Right. In some ways, one of the simplest ads to me that sort of cut through was the Levi’s ad, which just focused on rear ends. It worked. It worked. My son was, like, “Are we looking at butts? What’s going on here?” But you know what? It showed that: “Look, every human body is original. And whoever you are, we’ve got jeans for you.” The other ad that you mentioned and was also a bold shot was Anthropic’s jab at OpenAI. Definitely came in hard with their Claude spots. Did they win even before the Super Bowl ad ran? They won. Because people were talking about it. Well, before the Super Bowl ad ran, they were talking about it. Very few times my husband sends me a text about an ad. It grabbed a lot of people. The ads were incredibly well done. When you also think about the 360 strategy of, “Hey, we are going to maximize conversation and ROI,” they absolutely did that. When you take a shot at another company, and the CEO and the CMO of that company start to comment, you know you’ve won because you struck a nerve. Now I think that the proof will be in the pudding. Because now, if they start to bring ads to their platform, the internet will not forgive. Yes. It’s a strategic business decision to play that up. It’s not just a tagline. You got to live with it. You got to live with that. You absolutely have to live with that. There were a lot of AI-related ads. Something like one in four of the ads I was tracking were AI. One of my producers really liked OpenAI’s ad for Codex. Another one hated the Genspark ad, the one with Matthew Broderick, for being tone-deaf about people’s fear of AI. All of these ads around AI. Is it like it was a couple of years ago, where suddenly every ad seemed like it was from a crypto company? Is this a bubble? What does all that mean? I think the big picture was AI is here to stay. That was the big picture. The ads were not as spot-on or bull’s-eye as they could have been. So there wasn’t a single AI ad that I would say, other than the Anthropic ad, that we talked about. It almost felt like Anthropic was over here, and everybody else was over here. So there was a huge gap. So the AI winner was Anthropic, and everybody else was either meh or even in the loser category. But in general, the AI ads, they were overdone this year. I would say the overarching theme this year was disappointment. I think a lot of the ads were not that great. There were a few standout ads, and we’ve talked about them. And, I think, a few honorable mentions, and we’ve talked about a few of them as well. But the majority of the ads were a little meh. It’s like, when your agency comes to you and suggests Bowen Yang, Jon Hamm, and Scarlett Johansson in a spot, your question should be: “Why?” And if it’s not clear, maybe don’t do that. They were just trying to reach every demographic. It doesn’t work. When you try to speak to everyone, you speak to no one. In many ways, the biggest statement of the Super Bowl was the halftime show. Bad Bunny, singing in Spanish. At the Super Bowl party that I was at, some folks loved it. Some honestly were put off. “I don’t understand what he’s saying.” What was the larger impact, do you think? The best ad of the day, of the night, was Bad Bunny for Bad Bunny. I thought he did an incredible job. And at my Super Bowl party, I was up. I was dancing. I had a great time. Now, there were also people at my Super Bowl that were, like, they were not up, they were not dancing. And I think that was reflective. I think your Super Bowl party and my Super Bowl party were reflective of what’s going on in the world today. The people who didn’t want Bad Bunny there, there was nothing he could have done to have pleased them. So to have tried to please them would have been a failure. I thought he was a tremendous success because he spoke to the people who he needed to speak to, and he did it in a way that was incredibly authentic to them. From a real life couple getting married, to Lady Gaga performing, to just the joy. The overwhelming thing was joy and unity. He said, “God bless America.” And he said it in English, so everybody could understand that. He had the football that said, “Together, we are America.” But the America he referred to then wasn’t just the United States of America, right? He referred to all of the countries in the Americas—which again, turned some people off. There’s risk in that. I thought what he was saying—and this might be my own little interpretation—but I thought he was talking about all of these people come to America, and then they are American. And that very much resonated with me as an immigrant. I’ll go a step further and say I thought it was a win for Apple. I thought it was a win for the NFL because they are trying to be global. These are global brands. And guess what? Who is global? Bad Bunny is global. A lot of people all over the world love Bad Bunny. The NFL is trying to go global. You saw that they were even showing the watch parties. Here are people watching the NFL in London. And they’re trying to be more global as an institution. View the full article

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. We have to demote a really dedicated manager I’m involved in a small, local nonprofit animal shelter. I started as a volunteer and am now an officer of the board. Two years ago, our very competent office manager quit. After two crash-and-burn failed hires, one of our part-time kennel help wanted to try to step up into the position. On a trial basis. Over a year ago. And while she was never officially given the job, things just … limped along. Kasie is awesome in many ways, great with people and incredible with the animals. But she lacks the initiative and judgement to successfully fill this role. I will add she is open about having ADHD, which (from what I’ve read) is probably the source of her shortcomings. For the last year or more, we have been operating with the board president fulfilling way too many of the manager responsibilities for Kasie, which is not sustainable. One of our long-time board members, Jane, is willing to step into the job and has been hired with a tentative start date soon. Kasie is a very dedicated employee, and being manager of our animal shelter is way more than just a paycheck to her. I’m comfortable stating this is her dream job. She knows Changes Are Coming and has voiced she has no plans to leave, but I want to make this change as smooth as possible. I guess I’m looking for advice on moving someone who is dedicated to a cause to step down to a lower position and accept a new manager. I’m also wondering if ADHD is (or should be) a factor in dealing with any of this. Has someone been giving Kasie feedback all along and is she aware that the board didn’t think she was performing the role successfully? If so, this is a lot easier because it will be a logical extension of that conversation, which you can frame as, “As you know, we’ve been concerned about X and Y and need someone in this role who can do Z. The work has been suffering in ABC ways and we’re now at the point where we need to bring in someone to run things differently. We’d like you to move to focusing on DEF while Jane takes over the manager role.” But if no one has been giving Kasie clear feedback, this is messier! You’d still use the basic framing above (without the “as you know”) and be candid about the ways in which things haven’t been working … but in that case, the board should recognize its own role in making this harder, and use this as impetus to commit to being more forthright about concerns in the future. Also — make sure you’re not hiring Jane just because she stepped up, or you risk the same situation you had with Kasie. The board needs to be really clear with Jane (and with itself) about what doing the job well looks like and needs to be more hands-on about ensuring the new staffing decision is working out. 2. Our training about hostile work environments feels like a hostile work environment I work at a small but thriving business with a small group of employees at headquarters (myself among them) and a larger contingent of contract workers at other locations. Our city and state require all employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy and to provide employees with sexual harassment prevention training. While most places I’ve worked complete this requirement using an online curriculum consisting of pre-recorded videos and multiple choice questions, this business teaches it live via video call with a member of the C-suite who is not in charge of HR. (In fact, as far as I can tell, we don’t have a dedicated HR team; HR-related duties are instead spread across a number of directors and execs along with their other duties). This class happens in a video call with the executive (“Kyle”) and about 20 other participants at a time, cameras are required to be on, and he will call on anyone and everyone at some point during the class to answer questions. I’m sure this format works fine for some people, but I find it deeply uncomfortable. His blunt delivery on some of these topics leaves a really bad taste in my mouth (“Pop quiz, if nobody else is in the office and two coworkers at an equal level decide to have sex on their desk, is it technically harassment? Jane, you’ve been quiet, I bet you have an opinion on this”). There are also scenarios in this training that are sadly relevant to my personal history in a way that other people in the office are definitely aware of (and to a certain extent Kyle is also aware of), so I feel really exposed having my face on camera for that — or worse, being called on to answer pop quizzes that hit too close to home. I’m sure other people aren’t thinking about me as much as I am in those moments, but after the last session I wound up in the bathroom crying and I really don’t want to repeat that experience. I reached out to Kyle and my manager and asked if this year I could fulfill the requirement with a pre-recorded version of the training instead (the city provides one on their website free of charge). I used the word “accommodation” and directly referenced why this training is difficult for me without getting into sordid details. I immediately received a phone call from Kyle stating that he does not believe the training provided by the city government and authorized by the state are legally compliant with city and state regulations (both city and state websites say it is), but further that he doesn’t want to accommodate requests for alternate training because “holding these trainings in-house is a huge source of revenue for the business.” (cleardot.gifYour guess is as good as mine about what that means. If I had to guess, I bet we pass the cost of training the contractors on to their companies as part of the services they contract us for. ) This is bonkers, right? Is it legal? I did ask him if he was saying that the revenue stream was more important than the risk of creating a hostile work environment during a training about hostile work environments, and he did then say I could take the state-and-city authorized version instead, so my immediate problem is solved. But he emphasized that I shouldn’t tell anyone else because he doesn’t want people thinking they have other options, and I’m wondering if that’s as legally shady as it feels. It’s weird, but as long as they offer accommodations as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act, they’re not breaking any law. It’s odd that they want to create their own (apparently badly done) training rather than using the ready-made one offered by the city (and even odder that they’re trying to claim the city’s training wouldn’t comply with city regulations), but given Kyle’s remark about it being a source of revenue, I’d bet you’re right that they charge the contractors’ companies for it. (Even that doesn’t fully make sense, but what else could it be? Is unqualified Kyle out there selling this to completely separate companies too?!) The part about him telling you not to tell your colleagues that you’re getting this accommodation is sketchy — you have a legally protected right to talk with coworkers about working conditions (unless you’re a supervisor, in which case you don’t) — but the rest of it is legal. 3. If I’m graduating this spring, when should I apply for jobs? I have a question about applying for jobs as a college senior. I can imagine that higher level jobs will have long hiring processes, but for entry-level office jobs is it okay to apply now, even though graduation is four months away? Or is it better to wait until closer to when a person will actually be available to start working? Yes, start applying now. You might be too early for some jobs, but for a lot of them, the hiring process could easily take four months (if not longer). 4. Are there really so many nonprofit jobs? You reference not-for-profit vs for-profit sectors a lot. I used to think I understood what nonprofit work was … like the Cancer Society or Doctors Without Borders or something. But you reference it so often, I’m beginning to wonder …. can there really be that many nonprofit jobs the U.S., or am I misunderstanding what it is? Your international audience thanks you. Nonprofits accounted for 12.8 million jobs in the U.S. — nearly 10% of private-sector employment — in 2022, the latest year with data available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and there are 1.9 million registered nonprofits in the U.S. But nonprofits aren’t just the type of advocacy or service-based charities you’re thinking of; they also include arts organizations, museums, trade associations, religious institutions, private foundations, fraternal organizations, chambers of commerce, civic leagues, and lots more. 5. How to ask for more vacation time instead of a raise I’ve been with my employer for the better part of a decade. I’m a senior-level employee and have a lot of capital, get great reviews, etc. The work is challenging and rewarding and we help a lot of people. We aren’t expected to put in crazy hours, but I often feel like I’m close to my limit in terms of what I can reasonably do without sacrificing quality, and the work can be very draining. My employer is a small-ish but growing local business. I’m in the U.S. and employees who have been there a few years get just over four weeks’ PTO annually, only some of which can roll over. We don’t have separate sick leave, so PTO covers illness and vacation. What I want more than anything is more time off. I’d happily forgo a salary increase for a few years if I could get more PTO. I’m wondering how I can try to negotiate for this, what arguments I could use, and how much to ask for. I’m sure they won’t love the idea but I don’t think there’s any downside to asking, and if I was successful, it would be incredible. I’m even open to periodic unpaid leave. I just want more time to rest. The next time it would be appropriate to ask for a raise, ask for this instead. You can be pretty straightforward about it: “The thing that I really want right now more than a raise is additional PTO. Would you be open to giving me two additional weeks of PTO per year in lieu of a raise?” I picked two weeks because it’s a good solid chunk while still being reasonable, and also gives them room to come back with one week if they balk at two. You could also run the math on how many weeks of pay a typical raise there would be equivalent to, and factor that into your thinking too. The post demoting a dedicated employee, asking for more vacation time, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

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Reward loyalty cards are programs that businesses use to encourage customers to return for more purchases. When you sign up, you receive a unique ID that tracks the points you earn with every transaction. These points can lead to various rewards, like discounts or free products, based on your spending. Comprehending how these systems function can reveal their benefits and variations. So, what makes these cards appealing to both businesses and customers? Key Takeaways Reward loyalty cards are programs designed to encourage customer retention by offering various incentives for repeat purchases. Customers register for a unique loyalty ID, accumulating points with each purchase tracked through integrated Point of Sale systems. Points can lead to rewards like discounts, free products, and unique experiences, varying based on spending and promotions. Effective implementation involves clear communication of benefits, staff training, and regular evaluation based on customer feedback. Loyalty programs drive repeat purchases, enhancing sales and customer lifetime value, while providing businesses with valuable consumer insights. Definition of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards are programs that businesses implement to encourage customer retention and repeat purchases. These cards, whether physical or digital, are linked to a unique identifier for each customer, allowing for easy tracking of purchases and the accumulation of rewards. Typically, you earn points for every dollar spent, and these points can later be redeemed for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers within the business. Many reward loyalty cards feature tiered systems, where you discover additional benefits as you reach higher spending thresholds, enhancing your shopping experience. In addition, the data collected through your loyalty card usage provides businesses valuable insights into your preferences and spending habits, which aids them in tailoring their marketing strategies. How Reward Loyalty Cards Work When you participate in a loyalty program, you begin accumulating points or credits with each purchase you make at the participating business. To get started, you typically register for loyalty program cards, which provide you with a unique loyalty ID. You present this ID during transactions to track your points. The points you earn can vary based on how much you spend or through specific promotional activities, encouraging you to increase your spending or engagement with the brand. Many loyalty programs integrate with Point of Sale (POS) systems, allowing for automatic tracking and real-time updates of your points during checkout. This seamless process helps guarantee that you don’t miss out on any rewards. Furthermore, successful reward loyalty cards often utilize customer data to personalize offers and incentives, enhancing your shopping experience and nurturing brand loyalty. Overall, these cards offer a structured way to reward your loyalty. Benefits of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards offer you increased savings opportunities through points and discounts, making your shopping experience more rewarding. By participating in these programs, you not merely save money but additionally enjoy improved benefits customized to your preferences. Increased Savings Opportunities Loyalty cards provide a straightforward way for you to save money over time as you accumulate points with each purchase. These loyalty reward cards enable you to redeem points for discounts, free items, or exclusive offers, effectively boosting your savings. Many programs even offer bonus points during promotional periods, allowing you to maximize savings by timing your purchases strategically. Additionally, personalized discounts based on your shopping habits can lead to significant, customized savings. Participating in tiered loyalty systems means you can access greater rewards as your spending increases, encouraging more frequent purchases. Research shows that loyalty program members often spend 12-18% more, as the potential for earning rewards incentivizes additional purchases, translating to higher overall savings. Enhanced Shopping Experience Many shoppers find that using loyalty cards greatly improves their shopping experience by offering exclusive discounts and rewards for repeat purchases. Customer loyalty cards allow you to accumulate points with every purchase, which can later be redeemed for free products or special offers. This not only encourages you to return but also boosts your engagement with the brand. Many programs feature tiered benefits, meaning your spending can reveal better rewards, adding a sense of exclusivity. Furthermore, businesses can gather valuable customer data through these cards, leading to personalized marketing strategies that cater to your preferences. Different Types of Reward Loyalty Cards In terms of reward loyalty cards, points-based systems and tiered loyalty structures are two popular options that businesses use to encourage customer engagement. In a points-based program, you earn points for every purchase, which you can later redeem for discounts or special offers. Conversely, tiered structures reward you based on your spending level, providing better perks as you reach higher tiers, motivating you to spend more to access those benefits. Points-Based Reward Systems Points-based reward systems have become a popular strategy for businesses aiming to improve customer retention and engagement. With loyalty cards for small business, you can earn points for each purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers. Here are some key features of these systems: Points typically accumulate at a rate, like one point per dollar spent. Bonus points may be offered for specific promotions or purchases. Redemption options vary; some allow immediate discounts, whereas others require a minimum point threshold. Engagement beyond purchases, like social media shares, can additionally earn points. These systems nurture brand loyalty and encourage repeat business, making them a win-win for both you and the business. Tiered Loyalty Structures Tiered loyalty structures offer a strategic way to improve customer engagement by categorizing consumers into different levels based on their spending habits. These programs often feature tiers like Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each providing increasingly valuable rewards. As you spend more, you reveal perks such as exclusive discounts, early access to new products, or even free shipping. You typically progress through these tiers by accumulating points or meeting specific spending thresholds, encouraging you to shop more frequently. Some loyalty card designs as well include time-limited bonuses or challenges, which can help you achieve a higher tier faster. Businesses benefit, too, as these structures provide valuable data on customer behavior, allowing for personalized marketing and targeted promotions customized to each tier level. Examples of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards have become a popular tool for businesses to encourage customer retention and improve the shopping experience. These loyalty business cards not only reward frequent shoppers but also create a sense of community around brands. Here are some notable examples of reward loyalty cards: Starbucks Rewards: Earn stars for purchases, redeemable for free drinks and food items. The North Face XPLR Pass: Points for purchases and outdoor activities, offering exclusive gear and member events. Sephora‘s Beauty Insider: Tiered rewards based on spending, featuring discounts and birthday gifts. Chick-fil-A One: Points for purchases and personalized rewards based on previous orders. Expedia Rewards: Accumulate points for travel bookings, redeemable for discounts on future travel and accommodations. These programs effectively nurture brand loyalty as they enhance the overall customer experience. Tips for Implementing a Reward Loyalty Card Program When launching a reward loyalty card program, it is crucial to start with a clear comprehension of your goals, as this will help guide the design and implementation process. Choose a digital platform that integrates easily with your current systems, allowing customers to accumulate and redeem points effortlessly. Offering a variety of monetary and non-financial rewards can cater to different customer motivations effectively. To maintain engagement, regularly analyze customer data and adjust your program to keep rewards relevant. Promote your loyalty card program through multiple channels—social media, email campaigns, and in-store signage—to increase awareness and participation. Reward Type Description Discounts Exclusive price reductions Free Products Complimentary items Unique Experiences Special events or services Bonus Points Extra points for referrals Implementing these strategies can help you create a successful loyalty card program that drives engagement and retention. Frequently Asked Questions What Is a Loyalty Card and How Does It Work? A loyalty card is a tool businesses use to encourage repeat purchases. When you present your card during transactions, you earn points for every dollar spent. These points can later be redeemed for discounts or rewards, enhancing your shopping experience. Often, you’ll need to register by providing personal information, which helps businesses tailor offers to your preferences. Some programs even have tiers, where spending more reveals greater rewards, incentivizing you to engage more. How Does a Rewards Card Work? A rewards card works by allowing you to earn points for every dollar spent at participating retailers. When you make a purchase, you present your card, which tracks your spending. Over time, these points accumulate and can be redeemed for discounts, free items, or special offers. Some programs in addition provide bonus points for activities like social media engagement or participating in promotions, enhancing your potential rewards. What Is the Difference Between a Loyalty Card and a Rewards Card? A loyalty card focuses on building long-term relationships by rewarding you with points for your purchases, which you can redeem later. Conversely, a rewards card offers immediate benefits, like cash back or discounts at the point of sale. Whereas loyalty programs are often tiered, providing improved rewards as you spend more, rewards cards typically offer a fixed percentage back on every purchase, allowing for more straightforward savings without the need for personal registration. How Do Loyalty Rewards Work? Loyalty rewards work by allowing you to earn points for your purchases. As you spend, you accumulate points, which can be redeemed later for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers. Typically, you register for a program, receiving a unique identifier that tracks your points. Some programs have tiers, where higher spending increases your rewards. When you’re ready to redeem, you can apply your points at checkout, reducing your total cost effectively. Conclusion In conclusion, reward loyalty cards are effective tools for enhancing customer retention and engagement. By tracking purchases and offering points or incentives, these programs create personalized experiences that benefit both customers and businesses. Different types of loyalty cards cater to various consumer preferences, making them versatile marketing strategies. When implemented thoughtfully, these programs can nurture long-term relationships, eventually leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. Comprehending the mechanics of these cards can help you maximize their potential. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Are Reward Loyalty Cards and How Do They Function?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Reward loyalty cards are programs that businesses use to encourage customers to return for more purchases. When you sign up, you receive a unique ID that tracks the points you earn with every transaction. These points can lead to various rewards, like discounts or free products, based on your spending. Comprehending how these systems function can reveal their benefits and variations. So, what makes these cards appealing to both businesses and customers? Key Takeaways Reward loyalty cards are programs designed to encourage customer retention by offering various incentives for repeat purchases. Customers register for a unique loyalty ID, accumulating points with each purchase tracked through integrated Point of Sale systems. Points can lead to rewards like discounts, free products, and unique experiences, varying based on spending and promotions. Effective implementation involves clear communication of benefits, staff training, and regular evaluation based on customer feedback. Loyalty programs drive repeat purchases, enhancing sales and customer lifetime value, while providing businesses with valuable consumer insights. Definition of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards are programs that businesses implement to encourage customer retention and repeat purchases. These cards, whether physical or digital, are linked to a unique identifier for each customer, allowing for easy tracking of purchases and the accumulation of rewards. Typically, you earn points for every dollar spent, and these points can later be redeemed for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers within the business. Many reward loyalty cards feature tiered systems, where you discover additional benefits as you reach higher spending thresholds, enhancing your shopping experience. In addition, the data collected through your loyalty card usage provides businesses valuable insights into your preferences and spending habits, which aids them in tailoring their marketing strategies. How Reward Loyalty Cards Work When you participate in a loyalty program, you begin accumulating points or credits with each purchase you make at the participating business. To get started, you typically register for loyalty program cards, which provide you with a unique loyalty ID. You present this ID during transactions to track your points. The points you earn can vary based on how much you spend or through specific promotional activities, encouraging you to increase your spending or engagement with the brand. Many loyalty programs integrate with Point of Sale (POS) systems, allowing for automatic tracking and real-time updates of your points during checkout. This seamless process helps guarantee that you don’t miss out on any rewards. Furthermore, successful reward loyalty cards often utilize customer data to personalize offers and incentives, enhancing your shopping experience and nurturing brand loyalty. Overall, these cards offer a structured way to reward your loyalty. Benefits of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards offer you increased savings opportunities through points and discounts, making your shopping experience more rewarding. By participating in these programs, you not merely save money but additionally enjoy improved benefits customized to your preferences. Increased Savings Opportunities Loyalty cards provide a straightforward way for you to save money over time as you accumulate points with each purchase. These loyalty reward cards enable you to redeem points for discounts, free items, or exclusive offers, effectively boosting your savings. Many programs even offer bonus points during promotional periods, allowing you to maximize savings by timing your purchases strategically. Additionally, personalized discounts based on your shopping habits can lead to significant, customized savings. Participating in tiered loyalty systems means you can access greater rewards as your spending increases, encouraging more frequent purchases. Research shows that loyalty program members often spend 12-18% more, as the potential for earning rewards incentivizes additional purchases, translating to higher overall savings. Enhanced Shopping Experience Many shoppers find that using loyalty cards greatly improves their shopping experience by offering exclusive discounts and rewards for repeat purchases. Customer loyalty cards allow you to accumulate points with every purchase, which can later be redeemed for free products or special offers. This not only encourages you to return but also boosts your engagement with the brand. Many programs feature tiered benefits, meaning your spending can reveal better rewards, adding a sense of exclusivity. Furthermore, businesses can gather valuable customer data through these cards, leading to personalized marketing strategies that cater to your preferences. Different Types of Reward Loyalty Cards In terms of reward loyalty cards, points-based systems and tiered loyalty structures are two popular options that businesses use to encourage customer engagement. In a points-based program, you earn points for every purchase, which you can later redeem for discounts or special offers. Conversely, tiered structures reward you based on your spending level, providing better perks as you reach higher tiers, motivating you to spend more to access those benefits. Points-Based Reward Systems Points-based reward systems have become a popular strategy for businesses aiming to improve customer retention and engagement. With loyalty cards for small business, you can earn points for each purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers. Here are some key features of these systems: Points typically accumulate at a rate, like one point per dollar spent. Bonus points may be offered for specific promotions or purchases. Redemption options vary; some allow immediate discounts, whereas others require a minimum point threshold. Engagement beyond purchases, like social media shares, can additionally earn points. These systems nurture brand loyalty and encourage repeat business, making them a win-win for both you and the business. Tiered Loyalty Structures Tiered loyalty structures offer a strategic way to improve customer engagement by categorizing consumers into different levels based on their spending habits. These programs often feature tiers like Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each providing increasingly valuable rewards. As you spend more, you reveal perks such as exclusive discounts, early access to new products, or even free shipping. You typically progress through these tiers by accumulating points or meeting specific spending thresholds, encouraging you to shop more frequently. Some loyalty card designs as well include time-limited bonuses or challenges, which can help you achieve a higher tier faster. Businesses benefit, too, as these structures provide valuable data on customer behavior, allowing for personalized marketing and targeted promotions customized to each tier level. Examples of Reward Loyalty Cards Reward loyalty cards have become a popular tool for businesses to encourage customer retention and improve the shopping experience. These loyalty business cards not only reward frequent shoppers but also create a sense of community around brands. Here are some notable examples of reward loyalty cards: Starbucks Rewards: Earn stars for purchases, redeemable for free drinks and food items. The North Face XPLR Pass: Points for purchases and outdoor activities, offering exclusive gear and member events. Sephora‘s Beauty Insider: Tiered rewards based on spending, featuring discounts and birthday gifts. Chick-fil-A One: Points for purchases and personalized rewards based on previous orders. Expedia Rewards: Accumulate points for travel bookings, redeemable for discounts on future travel and accommodations. These programs effectively nurture brand loyalty as they enhance the overall customer experience. Tips for Implementing a Reward Loyalty Card Program When launching a reward loyalty card program, it is crucial to start with a clear comprehension of your goals, as this will help guide the design and implementation process. Choose a digital platform that integrates easily with your current systems, allowing customers to accumulate and redeem points effortlessly. Offering a variety of monetary and non-financial rewards can cater to different customer motivations effectively. To maintain engagement, regularly analyze customer data and adjust your program to keep rewards relevant. Promote your loyalty card program through multiple channels—social media, email campaigns, and in-store signage—to increase awareness and participation. Reward Type Description Discounts Exclusive price reductions Free Products Complimentary items Unique Experiences Special events or services Bonus Points Extra points for referrals Implementing these strategies can help you create a successful loyalty card program that drives engagement and retention. Frequently Asked Questions What Is a Loyalty Card and How Does It Work? A loyalty card is a tool businesses use to encourage repeat purchases. When you present your card during transactions, you earn points for every dollar spent. These points can later be redeemed for discounts or rewards, enhancing your shopping experience. Often, you’ll need to register by providing personal information, which helps businesses tailor offers to your preferences. Some programs even have tiers, where spending more reveals greater rewards, incentivizing you to engage more. How Does a Rewards Card Work? A rewards card works by allowing you to earn points for every dollar spent at participating retailers. When you make a purchase, you present your card, which tracks your spending. Over time, these points accumulate and can be redeemed for discounts, free items, or special offers. Some programs in addition provide bonus points for activities like social media engagement or participating in promotions, enhancing your potential rewards. What Is the Difference Between a Loyalty Card and a Rewards Card? A loyalty card focuses on building long-term relationships by rewarding you with points for your purchases, which you can redeem later. Conversely, a rewards card offers immediate benefits, like cash back or discounts at the point of sale. Whereas loyalty programs are often tiered, providing improved rewards as you spend more, rewards cards typically offer a fixed percentage back on every purchase, allowing for more straightforward savings without the need for personal registration. How Do Loyalty Rewards Work? Loyalty rewards work by allowing you to earn points for your purchases. As you spend, you accumulate points, which can be redeemed later for discounts, free products, or exclusive offers. Typically, you register for a program, receiving a unique identifier that tracks your points. Some programs have tiers, where higher spending increases your rewards. When you’re ready to redeem, you can apply your points at checkout, reducing your total cost effectively. Conclusion In conclusion, reward loyalty cards are effective tools for enhancing customer retention and engagement. By tracking purchases and offering points or incentives, these programs create personalized experiences that benefit both customers and businesses. Different types of loyalty cards cater to various consumer preferences, making them versatile marketing strategies. When implemented thoughtfully, these programs can nurture long-term relationships, eventually leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. Comprehending the mechanics of these cards can help you maximize their potential. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Are Reward Loyalty Cards and How Do They Function?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Jimmy Ba will be the sixth member of the founding team to departView the full article

FCA says regulation, due to take effect in July, is designed to boost consumer confidenceView the full article

When choosing the right online forum software, it’s essential to reflect on your specific needs and goals. Options like Bbpress integrate smoothly with WordPress, whereas Discourse offers real-time notifications and advanced moderation tools. Flarum presents a modern look with extensive customization, and Phpbb features a strong anti-spam system. MyBB is user-friendly, making it perfect for beginners. Each platform has distinct advantages, so comprehending their features can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore which might be the best fit for you. Key Takeaways Bbpress offers seamless WordPress integration and customizable discussion boards, making it ideal for existing WordPress users. Discourse features real-time notifications and advanced moderation tools, fostering active community engagement and safe discussions. Flarum is known for its user-friendly interface and extensibility, supporting a modern approach to community engagement. Phpbb provides extensive customization options and a strong anti-spam system, suitable for both small and large communities. MyBB is user-friendly with a simplified admin panel, perfect for beginners looking for efficient forum management. Bbpress bbPress stands out as a strong option for anyone looking to create a forum integrated with their WordPress website. This open-source forum software, developed by the WordPress Foundation, offers seamless WordPress integration, making it ideal for users familiar with the ecosystem. With bbPress, you can set up discussion boards quickly, utilizing user-selectable themes to customize the look and feel. The platform features crucial moderation tools, allowing you to manage discussions effectively and guarantee a healthy community environment. Moreover, bbPress provides built-in spam defenses and duplicate thread prevention, which improve user experience by maintaining the quality of conversations. By leveraging community support and extensive documentation, you’ll find it easy to troubleshoot issues or improve functionality with compatible plugins. Plus, with free forum hosting, bbPress gives you a cost-effective solution for building engaging online communities. Overall, it’s a strong choice for anyone seeking robust discussion board software. Discourse If you’re exploring more advanced forum software that offers extensive features, Discourse is worth considering. This open-source forum software, developed by Civilized Discourse Construction Kit, is built primarily in Ruby and JavaScript and supports a PostgreSQL database for robust data management. Discourse’s customizable interface lets you tailor the forum’s design and functionality, enhancing user engagement. You’ll find features like real-time notifications, gamification elements, and badges to encourage participation among your community members. Additionally, the platform includes advanced moderation tools and trust-based user permissions, ensuring a safe environment for discussions. With a robust API, Discourse integrates smoothly with various third-party applications, adding to its flexibility and usability. Whether you’re building a small community or a large forum website, Discourse provides the crucial tools to encourage interaction and manage user contributions effectively. This makes it an excellent choice for those serious about online discussions. Flarum Flarum stands out as one of the most innovative options in online forum software, designed for modern community engagement. This open-source forum software, built on PHP, is perfect for those looking to create discussion forum websites. With its latest version, 1.8.10, released in March 2025, Flarum supports MySQL and MariaDB databases, ensuring flexible data storage options. Licensed under the MIT license, it’s a free online forum that you can easily modify to meet your specific needs. Flarum’s user-friendly interface focuses on speed and simplicity, providing a smooth experience for both administrators and participants. One of its key strengths is its extensibility; the rich ecosystem of extensions allows you to customize the forum site builder to improve functionality and appearance. With Flarum, you can create the best forum software customized to your community’s requirements, making it a go-to choice for many. Phpbb phpBB serves as a robust option for those seeking free and open-source forum software, equipped with a diverse array of features that improve user interaction. This discussion board software supports user registration, allowing members to create profiles and engage in conversations easily. One of its standout features is a strong anti-spam system, which protects user data and cultivates a safe environment for discussions. With extensive customization options, you can tailor your online forum to suit specific needs and branding through themes and plugins. phpBB is likewise known for its scalability, making it suitable for both small communities and large forums with high user volumes. Nevertheless, keep in mind that setting up and maintaining phpBB requires some technical expertise, which may pose a challenge for less tech-savvy users. MyBB MyBB stands out as a user-friendly, free, open-source forum software ideal for those looking to create and manage online communities without extensive technical skills. Its user-friendly admin panel simplifies the setup process, making it accessible even for beginners. With advanced moderation tools and community governance features, you can effectively manage user permissions and thread management. Feature Benefit Impact Extensive Plugin Support Customize functionality Customized user experience Anti-Spam Measures Protects community data Safe discussion environment Regular Updates Guarantees reliability Keeps software current MyBB additionally provides free online forum hosting, making it a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized forums. Overall, it is considered one of the best forum software options for nurturing engaging online discussions. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Online Community Platform? When choosing the best online community platform, consider your community’s needs. For user-friendly discussions and content sharing, Circle is a strong option. If you focus on education, Thinkific’s course management features are effective. BuddyBoss creates social media-like environments, whereas MemberPress improves WordPress membership management. For a customizable solution, Discourse offers peer-to-peer discussions with engagement tools. Assess these platforms based on your goals, budget, and desired community interaction level. Do People Still Use Forums in 2025? Yes, people still actively use forums in 2025. About 76% of internet users engage in online communities, indicating their ongoing relevance. Forums enable knowledge sharing and improve customer engagement, with organizations seeing up to a 21% increase in interaction. They likewise enhance user experience in customer support, reduce support workload, and create spaces for user-generated content. Modern forum software offers features like gamification and real-time notifications, attracting users and nurturing lively communities. Which Website Is Best for Discussion Forum? To determine the best website for discussion forums, consider your specific needs. If you prioritize customization and user engagement, Discourse is an excellent choice. For budget-conscious users, phpBB offers robust features for free, but requires technical skills. XenForo suits larger discussions with its premium tools, whereas MyBB is user-friendly for beginners, though its design may feel outdated. If you need enterprise-level solutions, Vanilla Forums provides extensive integrations and customizable themes for effective community management. What Is the Top 10 Forum With Most Users Online? The top forums with the most users online include Reddit, boasting over 430 million active users, and Discourse, known for modern engagement features. phpBB supports millions of forums globally, whereas MyBB has a significant yet decentralized user base. XenForo and vBulletin likewise attract thousands in specialized communities. These platforms cater to a diverse range of topics, making them crucial for online discussions and user interactions across various interests and niches. Conclusion In summary, selecting the right online forum software depends on your specific needs and goals. Bbpress is ideal for WordPress users, whereas Discourse offers robust moderation tools. Flarum’s modern design and customization options appeal to those seeking flexibility, and Phpbb provides solid anti-spam features. Finally, MyBB caters to beginners with its user-friendly interface. By evaluating these options, you can find the best platform to encourage engaging online communities that align with your objectives. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Best Online Forum Software Options" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When choosing the right online forum software, it’s essential to reflect on your specific needs and goals. Options like Bbpress integrate smoothly with WordPress, whereas Discourse offers real-time notifications and advanced moderation tools. Flarum presents a modern look with extensive customization, and Phpbb features a strong anti-spam system. MyBB is user-friendly, making it perfect for beginners. Each platform has distinct advantages, so comprehending their features can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore which might be the best fit for you. Key Takeaways Bbpress offers seamless WordPress integration and customizable discussion boards, making it ideal for existing WordPress users. Discourse features real-time notifications and advanced moderation tools, fostering active community engagement and safe discussions. Flarum is known for its user-friendly interface and extensibility, supporting a modern approach to community engagement. Phpbb provides extensive customization options and a strong anti-spam system, suitable for both small and large communities. MyBB is user-friendly with a simplified admin panel, perfect for beginners looking for efficient forum management. Bbpress bbPress stands out as a strong option for anyone looking to create a forum integrated with their WordPress website. This open-source forum software, developed by the WordPress Foundation, offers seamless WordPress integration, making it ideal for users familiar with the ecosystem. With bbPress, you can set up discussion boards quickly, utilizing user-selectable themes to customize the look and feel. The platform features crucial moderation tools, allowing you to manage discussions effectively and guarantee a healthy community environment. Moreover, bbPress provides built-in spam defenses and duplicate thread prevention, which improve user experience by maintaining the quality of conversations. By leveraging community support and extensive documentation, you’ll find it easy to troubleshoot issues or improve functionality with compatible plugins. Plus, with free forum hosting, bbPress gives you a cost-effective solution for building engaging online communities. Overall, it’s a strong choice for anyone seeking robust discussion board software. Discourse If you’re exploring more advanced forum software that offers extensive features, Discourse is worth considering. This open-source forum software, developed by Civilized Discourse Construction Kit, is built primarily in Ruby and JavaScript and supports a PostgreSQL database for robust data management. Discourse’s customizable interface lets you tailor the forum’s design and functionality, enhancing user engagement. You’ll find features like real-time notifications, gamification elements, and badges to encourage participation among your community members. Additionally, the platform includes advanced moderation tools and trust-based user permissions, ensuring a safe environment for discussions. With a robust API, Discourse integrates smoothly with various third-party applications, adding to its flexibility and usability. Whether you’re building a small community or a large forum website, Discourse provides the crucial tools to encourage interaction and manage user contributions effectively. This makes it an excellent choice for those serious about online discussions. Flarum Flarum stands out as one of the most innovative options in online forum software, designed for modern community engagement. This open-source forum software, built on PHP, is perfect for those looking to create discussion forum websites. With its latest version, 1.8.10, released in March 2025, Flarum supports MySQL and MariaDB databases, ensuring flexible data storage options. Licensed under the MIT license, it’s a free online forum that you can easily modify to meet your specific needs. Flarum’s user-friendly interface focuses on speed and simplicity, providing a smooth experience for both administrators and participants. One of its key strengths is its extensibility; the rich ecosystem of extensions allows you to customize the forum site builder to improve functionality and appearance. With Flarum, you can create the best forum software customized to your community’s requirements, making it a go-to choice for many. Phpbb phpBB serves as a robust option for those seeking free and open-source forum software, equipped with a diverse array of features that improve user interaction. This discussion board software supports user registration, allowing members to create profiles and engage in conversations easily. One of its standout features is a strong anti-spam system, which protects user data and cultivates a safe environment for discussions. With extensive customization options, you can tailor your online forum to suit specific needs and branding through themes and plugins. phpBB is likewise known for its scalability, making it suitable for both small communities and large forums with high user volumes. Nevertheless, keep in mind that setting up and maintaining phpBB requires some technical expertise, which may pose a challenge for less tech-savvy users. MyBB MyBB stands out as a user-friendly, free, open-source forum software ideal for those looking to create and manage online communities without extensive technical skills. Its user-friendly admin panel simplifies the setup process, making it accessible even for beginners. With advanced moderation tools and community governance features, you can effectively manage user permissions and thread management. Feature Benefit Impact Extensive Plugin Support Customize functionality Customized user experience Anti-Spam Measures Protects community data Safe discussion environment Regular Updates Guarantees reliability Keeps software current MyBB additionally provides free online forum hosting, making it a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized forums. Overall, it is considered one of the best forum software options for nurturing engaging online discussions. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Online Community Platform? When choosing the best online community platform, consider your community’s needs. For user-friendly discussions and content sharing, Circle is a strong option. If you focus on education, Thinkific’s course management features are effective. BuddyBoss creates social media-like environments, whereas MemberPress improves WordPress membership management. For a customizable solution, Discourse offers peer-to-peer discussions with engagement tools. Assess these platforms based on your goals, budget, and desired community interaction level. Do People Still Use Forums in 2025? Yes, people still actively use forums in 2025. About 76% of internet users engage in online communities, indicating their ongoing relevance. Forums enable knowledge sharing and improve customer engagement, with organizations seeing up to a 21% increase in interaction. They likewise enhance user experience in customer support, reduce support workload, and create spaces for user-generated content. Modern forum software offers features like gamification and real-time notifications, attracting users and nurturing lively communities. Which Website Is Best for Discussion Forum? To determine the best website for discussion forums, consider your specific needs. If you prioritize customization and user engagement, Discourse is an excellent choice. For budget-conscious users, phpBB offers robust features for free, but requires technical skills. XenForo suits larger discussions with its premium tools, whereas MyBB is user-friendly for beginners, though its design may feel outdated. If you need enterprise-level solutions, Vanilla Forums provides extensive integrations and customizable themes for effective community management. What Is the Top 10 Forum With Most Users Online? The top forums with the most users online include Reddit, boasting over 430 million active users, and Discourse, known for modern engagement features. phpBB supports millions of forums globally, whereas MyBB has a significant yet decentralized user base. XenForo and vBulletin likewise attract thousands in specialized communities. These platforms cater to a diverse range of topics, making them crucial for online discussions and user interactions across various interests and niches. Conclusion In summary, selecting the right online forum software depends on your specific needs and goals. Bbpress is ideal for WordPress users, whereas Discourse offers robust moderation tools. Flarum’s modern design and customization options appeal to those seeking flexibility, and Phpbb provides solid anti-spam features. Finally, MyBB caters to beginners with its user-friendly interface. By evaluating these options, you can find the best platform to encourage engaging online communities that align with your objectives. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Best Online Forum Software Options" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The dark web has a bad reputation—one it has earned, at that. It's a complex subsection of the web, and it's not all bad by any means, but its nature does allow illicit and illegal activity to prosper anonymously. That's why hackers choose the dark web as their point of sale for stolen user data: If you're going to traffic digital contraband, you're going to do so as privately as possible. As such, you might be a bit stressed if you're told your email address was found on the dark web. Maybe you use an identity theft service, which discovered your information here. Perhaps you're noticing an uptick in spam, especially spam that seems targeted to you personally. In any case, it's understandable to be anxious. The good news is, this is more common than you think, and there are steps you can take to protect your data going forward. What is the dark web?Despite its aforementioned reputation, the dark web is not "Evil Doers Central." It's simply one part of the deep web, or the part of the internet not indexed by search engines. The deep web makes up the vast majority of the global internet, but the dark web is unique, because it requires a specific type of browser, like Tor, and knowledge of specific dark web addresses, to access. The dark web is inherently private, and inherently anonymous. That's why it attracts bad actors. But that doesn't mean that's all it's good for. Anyone who needs to access the internet without worrying about intervention can use the dark web. Think about journalists in countries that would rather they not tell their stories, or citizens whose governments censor the public internet. There's plenty of bad to be had, to be sure, but there's also perfectly innocent and productive content, too. For more information about this murky, mysterious place, check out our full explainer and guide here. Why is my email address on the dark web?If your email address is on the dark web, it's likely because one of the companies you shared it with suffered a data breach. Unfortunately, data breaches happen all the time, and there's really no way to ensure that a company you choose to share your email address with won't be a victim of a breach at some point in the future. Sometimes the company itself is breached; other times, it's a third-party the company shares data to. When bad actors break into an organization's systems and steal their data, they often put the spoils on the dark web. This makes it easier to sell the stolen data anonymously. As such, it's really no surprise if your email ends up on the dark web—though that might not be much consolation. What can hackers do with my email on the dark web?Your email address is for sale, and someone buys it. Now what? Well, such a hacker could choose a few tactics here. First, they'll likely want to try breaking into different accounts you might have used that email address with. If you lost any passwords in the data breach, they might try those, too. That's why it's an excellent idea to change your passwords as soon as you learn about the breach—but more on that later. If they can't break into your accounts on their own, they'll want to enlist your services—unknowingly, of course. To do so, they'll likely target you in phishing attacks, and, seeing as they know your email address, they'll probably come via email. There are a lot of phishing campaigns out there, but here are some examples: You might receive fake data breach notices, with a link to check your account; you might find a message telling you it's time to change your password; you might get an email warning you about a login attempt; you might even receive an aggressive email, with demands from the hackers. Hackers may also choose to impersonate you. They might create an email that looks very similar to yours, and reach out to your contacts in order to trick them into thinking it's really you. Tell your close contacts (especially any you think won't look close at the "from" line in an email) that your email was leaked on the dark web, and to watch out for imposters. Here's what to do if your email address is on the dark webFirst of all, don't panic. Again, data breaches happen so often that many of our email addresses (among other data) have leaked onto the dark web. While this isn't a good thing, it also isn't the end of the world. Next, change your passwords, starting with your email account itself. If you know the account the email was stolen from, make sure to change this next, as your password may have also be affected in the data breach. As usual, make each password strong and unique: You should never reuse passwords with any account, and all of them should be long and difficult for both humans and computers to guess. As long as each of your accounts uses a strong and unique password, you really shouldn't have to change all of your passwords: Hackers may have your email, but they won't have all these passwords to use with it. From here, make sure all of your accounts use two-factor authentication (2FA), when available. 2FA ensures that even if you have the email address and password for a given account, you still need access to a trusted device to verify your identity. Hackers won't be able to do anything with your stolen credentials if they don't have physical access to, say, your smartphone. This is a crucial step for maintaining your security following a data breach. You could also choose to use passkeys instead of passwords for any accounts that offers it. Passkeys combine the convenience of passwords with the security of 2FA: You log in with your fingerprint, face scan, or PIN, and there's no password to actually steal. From here, monitor your various accounts connected to this email, especially your financial accounts. Your email address alone likely won't put you in too much jeopardy, but if you lost additional information, you'll want to ensure hackers don't breach your important accounts. You could take drastic steps, like freezing your credit, but, again, if it's just your email address, this is likely a step too far. Can I remove my email from the dark web?While some data removal services claim to be able to remove data like email addresses from the dark web, it's just not 100% possible. The dark web is vast and unregulated, and once the data leaks onto it, the cat's kind of out of the bag. Sure, a service like DeleteMe could request data web hosts to take down your email, but they don't have to. Plus, hackers who buy your email already have it. Again, exposed email addresses are not the end of the world. But if you can't stand having your email on the dark web, your best bet may be to make a new account. Preventing your email address from winding up on the dark web What you can do is take measures to prevent data loss in the future. The best step to take is to stop sharing your email in the first place. You don't need to be a hermit, though: Use an email alias service, like Apple's Hide My Email or Proton's email alias feature, to generate a new alias every time you need to share your email. Messages sent to the alias are forwarded to your inbox, so the experience is the same for you, all without exposing your actual address to the world. If one of these companies suffers a data breach, no problem: Just retire the alias. To that point, going forward, consider using a data monitoring and removal service. Maybe you already do, and that's how you learned about your email on the dark web to begin with. But if you don't, there are many options out there to choose from. While none can promise they'll remove email addresses from the dark web, they might spot your email if it ends up there. If you use aliases, you can then kill that particular address and make a new one for the affected account. Plus, if your email ends up somewhere other than the dark web, they might be able to remove it for you. View the full article

Keeping track of money on a construction project is rarely straightforward once work is underway. Labor hours shift, material prices fluctuate and change orders make planned costs shift. A job cost report gives teams a clear way to stay grounded in the numbers, helping project owners, project managers and contractors understand how actual costs are shaping up as the job progresses. What Is a Job Cost Report? A job cost report in construction is a financial document that tracks all costs incurred on a specific project against the budget. It typically organizes expenses by cost codes, such as labor, materials, equipment and subcontractors. The report shows the project costs that were budgeted, what has been spent to date and what costs are still forecasted. Job cost reports are updated regularly during construction to reflect real-time spending and current financial status. ProjectManager is an award-winning construction project management software that excels at resource planning, cost tracking and project reporting thanks to features such as timesheets, workload charts and real-time dashboards and reports. Get started for free today /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/construction-gantt-resources-costs-150-CTA-BUTTON-1.jpgLearn more What Is the Purpose of a Job Cost Report In a Construction Project? The main purpose of a job cost report is to track how actual costs are developing as construction work is carried out, to contrast them against what was originally budgeted. It gives project teams visibility into where money is being spent at the cost-code level, helping them spot cost overruns, unused budget or abnormal spending patterns while the project is still active and decisions can still be made. Job cost reports become especially important when projects experience change orders, fluctuating labor productivity, scope adjustments or shifts in material pricing. In these situations, the report serves as a cost control tool that supports updated cost forecasts, cash flow planning and funding decisions. By reflecting current conditions instead of static construction cost estimates, it allows teams to respond early and steer the project financially before small issues grow into larger problems. Who Is Responsible for Creating Job Cost Reports? The project manager is typically the role accountable for creating and maintaining the job cost report. They are responsible for ensuring costs are tracked accurately and reviewed regularly against the budget. That said, job cost reporting is still a team effort. The project manager relies on timely, accurate input from several roles across the field and office to keep the report current and meaningful as the project progresses. Project manager: Owns the job cost report, reviews cost performance regularly and uses the data to adjust forecasts, manage risk and guide financial decisions throughout the project. Superintendent: Provides field-level insight into labor productivity, completed work and upcoming activities that affect cost trends and help validate what is being reported financially. Project engineer: Tracks quantities, cost codes and approved change orders, ensuring costs are assigned correctly and supporting accurate updates to the job cost report. Estimator: Supplies the original budget and cost breakdown, helping teams compare current spending to baseline assumptions and understand where variances are occurring. Accounting team: Records invoices, payroll and vendor payments, ensuring actual costs are captured correctly and reflected in the job cost report on time. Procurement or purchasing: Shares material pricing, purchase orders and delivery updates that influence committed costs and future spending projections. Subcontractor managers: Confirm subcontractor progress, billings and change impacts so subcontracted work costs align with both physical progress and financial records. When to Make a Construction Job Cost Report A construction job cost report is first created at the start of the project, once the construction budget is approved and cost codes are established. This initial version sets the cost baseline for tracking actual costs as work begins. As construction progresses, the report is shared with project managers, superintendents, executives and accounting teams to support cost reviews and decision-making. After the first report, job cost reports are typically updated weekly or monthly, depending on project size and company controls, to reflect new costs, commitments and forecasts. This construction cost reporting activity continues throughout the life cycle of the construction project, including the closeout phase, and stops only once final costs are posted, subcontractors are paid and the project’s financials are fully closed. What Should Be Included In a Job Cost Report? A construction job cost report should bring together all the financial details needed to understand how money is being spent on a project. It must clearly show where costs are coming from, how they compare to the budget and how they are organized so teams can analyze performance, spot issues and make informed decisions as work progresses. 1. Project Information Basic project information ensures the job cost report is clearly tied to the correct project and reporting period. It provides context for interpreting the numbers and avoids confusion when construction reports are shared across teams. Project name and job number to uniquely identify the project. Project manager and superintendent responsible for execution. Reporting period or cutoff date for the cost data. Client name and contract reference for traceability. 2. Cost Breakdown Structure A cost breakdown structure is a systematic way of organizing a project’s budget into defined cost categories, often called cost codes. These categories typically separate labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors and indirect costs, allowing expenses to be tracked consistently and compared against planned amounts throughout the construction project lifecycle. Within a construction job cost report, the cost breakdown structure acts as the framework that holds all financial data together. It ensures every dollar spent is assigned to the correct category, making it easier to analyze variances, track trends and understand which parts of the project are driving costs as work progresses. 3. Project Cost Baseline A project cost baseline is the approved construction budget used as the reference point for cost tracking and control. It is established before work begins and reflects expected costs across all cost codes, including labor, materials, equipment and subcontracted work. The baseline represents the financial plan against which actual and forecasted costs are measured throughout the project. In a construction job cost report, the cost baseline provides the benchmark needed to evaluate financial performance. It allows teams to compare actual spending and commitments against planned amounts, identify variances early and understand whether the project is trending over or under budget as work progresses. 4. Committed Costs Committed costs are expenses that have been contractually agreed to but not yet fully incurred. In construction, these include approved subcontracts, purchase orders, rental agreements and material orders. Although payment may not have occurred, these costs represent obligations that will impact the final project cost and must be accounted for during execution. Including committed costs in a job cost report is critical for accurate forecasting. They show future spending that is already locked in, preventing teams from underestimating total costs. By accounting for commitments, project managers gain a clearer picture of remaining budget, cash flow needs and potential financial exposure. 5. Actual Costs to Date Actual costs to date represent the real expenses that have already been incurred on a construction project. These costs come from payroll, supplier invoices, equipment charges and subcontractor billings that have been recorded and approved. Unlike estimates or commitments, actual costs reflect money that has been spent and posted to specific cost codes. Including actual costs to date in a job cost report is essential because it shows how the project is performing right now. These figures anchor forecasts in reality, help validate productivity assumptions and allow teams to compare real spending against both the budget and committed costs. 6. Cost Variance Cost variance in construction is the difference between what was budgeted and what has actually been spent or committed for a specific scope of work. It is usually calculated at the cost-code level and can indicate overruns or underruns caused by productivity changes, pricing shifts or scope adjustments. Tracking cost variance in a job cost report highlights where financial performance is drifting from plan. It helps project teams pinpoint problem areas, understand why costs are changing and take corrective action before overruns spread and affect the overall project budget. 7. Estimate at Completion (EAC) The estimate at completion (EAC) is a forecast of the total cost of a construction project once all work is finished. It combines actual costs to date with updated projections for remaining work, based on current productivity, committed costs and expected changes. EAC reflects the most realistic view of final project cost as conditions evolve. Including an estimate at completion in a job cost report is critical because it shifts focus from past spending to future outcomes. It helps teams anticipate final budget position, evaluate financial risk and make informed decisions while there is still time to correct course or mitigate cost overruns. 8. Revenue and Billing Revenue and billing are included in a job cost report to show how project income aligns with costs incurred. By tracking billed amounts, pending invoices and earned revenue, teams can monitor cash flow, assess profitability and ensure that costs being recorded are supported by timely and accurate client billing. 9. Change Log A change log in construction is a centralized record of all approved, pending and rejected changes that affect project scope, schedule or cost. It documents each change order with details such as description, status, cost impact and approval date, providing a clear audit trail of how the project has evolved over time. Within a construction job cost report, the change log explains why costs deviate from the original budget. It links financial variances to specific scope changes, helping teams distinguish between performance issues and approved adjustments. This context is essential for accurate forecasting, client communication and defending final project costs. Construction Job Cost Report Example Hypothetical scenario: A commercial general contractor is building a 5-story office building for a tech company. Reporting period: Month 6 (cutoff: 2026-02-07). Project Information Field Value Project Name Orion Tech HQ – 5-Story Office Build Job Number GC-26-014 Client Orion Tech (Tenant Improvement + Core/Shell) Project Manager Jordan Lee Superintendent Maria Santos Contract Type GMP with allowances Reporting Period 2026-01-08 to 2026-02-07 Cost Breakdown Structure Cost Code Category Cost Type Notes 01 General Conditions Indirect Site staff, temp facilities, permits, safety 02 Concrete Direct Foundations, slabs, structural concrete 03 Steel Direct Structural steel supply and erection 04 MEP Direct Mechanical, electrical, plumbing scope 05 Interiors Direct Drywall, finishes, millwork 06 Exterior Envelope Direct Curtain wall, roofing, waterproofing Baseline, Committed Costs, Actual Costs, Cost Variance & EAC Cost Code Budget Baseline (USD) Committed (USD) Actual to Date (USD) Committed + Actual (USD) Variance vs Budget (USD) EAC (USD) 01 General Conditions 650,000 120,000 330,000 450,000 200,000 670,000 02 Concrete 1,450,000 1,100,000 820,000 1,920,000 -470,000 1,980,000 03 Steel 1,250,000 1,180,000 940,000 2,120,000 -870,000 2,150,000 04 MEP 2,300,000 1,900,000 620,000 2,520,000 -220,000 2,560,000 05 Interiors 1,150,000 520,000 210,000 730,000 420,000 1,170,000 06 Exterior Envelope 1,600,000 1,420,000 360,000 1,780,000 -180,000 1,820,000 Total 8,400,000 6,240,000 3,280,000 9,520,000 -1,120,000 10,350,000 Revenue and Billing Billing Item Amount (USD) Notes Contract (GMP) 12,000,000 Original contract value Approved Change Orders 450,000 Added scope approved Revised Contract Value 12,450,000 Contract + approved changes Amount Billed to Date 6,100,000 6 pay apps submitted/approved Cash Received to Date 5,540,000 Net of retainage timing Under/Over Billed -320,000 Costs/earned revenue ahead of billing Change Log Change ID Description Status Cost Impact (USD) Schedule Impact Approval Date CO-014 Tenant IT room upgrade (power + cooling) Approved 160,000 +3 days 2026-01-19 CO-017 Steel connection redesign (RFI-driven) Pending 240,000 +5 days — CO-019 Lobby finish upgrade package Approved 90,000 0 days 2026-02-03 Free Construction Cost Management Templates We’ve created dozens of free construction project management templates for Excel, Word, Google Sheets and more. Here are some that can help manage project costs. Cost Breakdown Template Break down construction costs by scope, resources and responsibility with this cost breakdown template. Track materials, equipment and labor against budgeted and actual costs, flag variances by task priority and maintain clear visibility into project financial performance. Construction Budget Template Track construction costs by task and WBS with this construction budget template. Capture labor hours and rates, materials, travel, equipment and fixed costs, then compare budgeted versus actual totals to instantly see under or over budget performance at any project level. Budget Dashboard Template Visualize planned versus actual construction costs with this budget dashboard template. Monitor materials, labor, equipment and overhead through charts and detailed tables, track variances in real time and quickly identify cost overruns or savings across the entire job. How ProjectManager Helps with Construction Cost Management ProjectManager is designed to allow construction project managers to create detailed project plans, allocate resources for the execution of tasks, create construction budgets and compare estimated costs against actual project costs in real-time dashboards and reports to identify cost overruns and financial risks before they become a threat to projects. Related Construction Cost Management Content Our content library features over 100 construction blogs, templates, ebooks and other types of content to help construction project managers better understand the many moving parts that must be managed to deliver successful construction projects. Here are some of them. Construction Cost Management: Ultimate Guide Construction Cost Tracking: Complete Guide Construction Estimating Guide: How to Make a Construction Estimate Construction Budget: A Quick Guide (with Examples) 39 Construction Documents (Templates Included) Value Engineering in Construction: Phases & Techniques The post How to Make a Job Cost Report for Construction appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Investment in British energy system is happening at a time of soaring costs for new equipment, says CEO Chris O’SheaView the full article

The answer is an E-E-A-T audit. If you’re unfamiliar with E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust), start with our guide to E-E-A-T in SEO. This post assumes you understand the basics and are ready to audit a brand you’re working…Read more ›View the full article

On a sidewalk, an unassuming junction box sits strapped to a fence. Inside, dozens of keychains, stickers, mini figurines, and other novelties wait to be discovered by eagle-eyed passersby or trinket traders who have traveled across the city to exchange their treasure. Trinket trading has taken off on social media in recent weeks. The trend first originated in Philadelphia, where Philly’s Trinket Trove began documenting the contents of a repurposed junction box on TikTok in September of last year. It has since spread nationwide, with communities from New York to San Francisco setting up their own boxes of assorted knick-knacks for anyone to stop by and trade. The only rule: “Give a trinket, take a trinket.” TikTok creators across the platform have jumped on the trend with enthusiasm, documenting what they find and what they leave behind in vlog-style videos. Others are announcing new trinket box locations, inviting neighbors and fellow social media users to spread the word and join the fun. While the trinket boxes are primarily aimed at children, trinkets themselves are having a moment globally. Since hitting the market in 2019, Labubus have become a global phenomenon, sparking a viral craze for the palm-sized monster dolls in 2025. Smiskis and Sonny Angels, both cutesy figurines, have also had their own viral moments as blind boxes continue to populate social feeds. Even Michaels and Walmart have begun carrying their own mystery boxes to capitalize on the trend. In much the same way, the trinket box trend offers a wholesome moment of surprise. Instead of encouraging people to purchase something new, it promotes the more sustainable idea that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Like little free libraries or geocaches before them, trinket boxes lean into whimsy and analog activities, two trends forecasted for 2026 as antidotes to brainrot and digital fatigue. Across social media, one of the biggest trends right now is being offline. Analog bags, snail mail and grandma hobbies have all been trending in recent months. The hashtag #AnalogLife is up 330% this year, according to TikTok data shared with Axios, and “analog wellness” was named a top trend for 2025 by the Global Wellness Summit. Parents have long expressed concern about the iPad generation and the impact of growing up glued to screens and reliant on technology for perpetual distraction. Here, something as simple as a trinket could offer a small moment of respite in an increasingly saturated technological world. Just make sure to leave something behind for the next person. View the full article

La Caisse to suspend future ventures with the Dubai-based logistics group over Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem’s messagesView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Like most of the eastern United States this winter, I experienced some rough snowstorms with ice rain. Now that I've seen what can happen during any winter, I wasted no time getting myself a power station. This is a great time to get yourself one, since the Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station is 50% off right now, going for $397 (originally $799). This is the lowest price it has been, according to price-tracking tools. Anker SOLIX C1000 $397.00 at Amazon $799.00 Save $402.00 Get Deal Get Deal $397.00 at Amazon $799.00 Save $402.00 Many people in my city had to endure below-freezing temperatures without power. Luckily for me, our power didn't go out, but I still had to prepare for the worst. I decided to finally dive into the world of power stations, and I was surprised to learn that some of these power stations can power refrigerators. The Anker SOLIX C1000 can power a fridge for around 32 hours, depending on the size. That can be the difference between losing all of your food in the fridge during a power outage or being able to feed your household during the outage. Anker's power stations are some of the best in the market. Like most top-tier power stations, they have accessories like solar panels or extra batteries that you can buy separately if you ever feel the need to have a longer or more sustainable option in the future. It also has an excellent app that tracks how your energy is being used and lets you customize the battery output. As Mashable's review points out, it's also a versatile tool that you can take on camping trips to power TVs, cooking materials, phones, etc. The peace of mind of having a power station at home by itself is worth the price to me. If you've been considering one, get it now while it's 50% off, not when the next storm is on the horizon. Our Best Editor-Vetted Presidents' Day Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $139.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones — $229.00 (List Price $349.00) Dell 16 DC16255 (AMD Ryzen 7 250, 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, 2K Display) — $649.99 (List Price $869.99) HP Omen 35L (Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, RTX 5080, 2TB SSD, 64GB RAM) — (List Price $2,949.99 With Code "PRESDAYPC100") HP OmniBook X Flip Ngai 16-Inch (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, Radeon 860M, 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, 2K Display) — (List Price $649.99 With Code "PRESDAYPC50") Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Target CEO Michael Fiddelke is reshuffling his leadership team and making other changes shortly after stepping into the top job at the retailer that has struggled operationally. Rick Gomez, the 13-year Target veteran who oversees the chain’s vast inventory of merchandise, will leave the company. And Jill Sando, the chief merchandising officer overseeing a handful of categories like apparel and home and who has been with the company since 1997, will retire. Lisa Roath, who oversaw food, essentials, and cosmetics, will take Fiddelke’s previous job as chief operating officer, the company said Tuesday. Cara Sylvester, who had been chief guest experience officer, will become the company’s chief merchandising officer. The changes will allow Target to move with greater speed, Fiddelke said. “It’s the start of a new chapter for Target, and we’re moving quickly to take action against our priorities that will drive growth within our business,” Fiddelke said in a release. Gomez and Sando will remain with the company for a short time to help with the transition, but the changes become effective Sunday. Also on Tuesday, the company reiterated its profit guidance. It is also increasing investment in store staffing at stores while eliminating about 500 jobs at distribution centers and regional offices, according to a memo sent to employees that Target shared with The Associated Press. The cuts make up just a tiny fraction of Target’s overall employee count of more than 400,000. It is the first substantial change under Fiddelke, a 20-year company veteran who took over for Brian Cornell this month. The company’s decision to choose an insider surprised many industry analysts who believe the company needs new ideas as it tries to revive sales. Target has struggled to find its footing as many Americans have cut back on spending. Customers have also complained of disheveled stores that are missing the budget-priced niche that long ago earned the retailer the nickname “Tarzhay.” The company has also been buffeted by consumer boycotts and backlash after it scaled back its corporate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. It has also faced protests for what some critics see as an insufficient response to President Donald The President’s aggressive immigration enforcement tactics in Minneapolis, its hometown, where two U.S. citizens where fatally shot last month by federal agents. Target has not commented publicly after federal agents detaining two of its employees this month — although Fiddelke sent a video message to the company’s 400,000 workers calling recent violence “incredibly painful.” Fiddelke was one of 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies who signed an open letter in January calling for state, local, and federal officials to find a solution after the fatal shootings. —Anne D’Innocenzio, AP retail writer View the full article

While there are a lot of chat apps out there, WhatsApp is the undeniable leader of the pack. The app has over three billion monthly active users, constantly messaging and calling one another across the globe. However, currently those calls are all happening over the mobile app, or maybe the desktop app. Though WhatsApp does have a web app, the service has never supported audio or video calls outside of its downloadable apps—until now. You can now make calls from the WhatsApp web appAccording to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is slowly rolling out audio and video calls to its web app. At launch, the functionality is coming to individual chats with users who elect to enroll in the WhatsApp web app's beta, but the company plans to roll out the feature to all web app users over the coming weeks. WABetaInfo notes that voice and audio calls work about the same as they do in the WhatsApp desktop app. When you open an individual chat in the web app, you'll now see a video call icon at the top. Click this, and you'll find two options: one to place a voice call, and one to place a video call. These calls are still end-to-end encrypted, as they are on WhatsApp's desktop and mobile apps, meaning only the users who are a part of the calls can hear what's being said. In addition, the web app's video call client supports Screen Share, so you can share a live stream of your computer's screen to another WhatsApp contact. WhatsApp is also reportedly working on group chat calls for web app users, as well. While that feature won't roll out alongside individual calls, when it does launch, you'll be able to join group chats with up to 32 people. If you tend to use the WhatsApp desktop or mobile apps, this might not seem like huge news—but it is pretty substantial for a few subsets of WhatsApp users. One, of course, is the user base that just prefers using WhatsApp in their computer's web browser—but the other is Linux users. WhatsApp doesn't actually offer a version of its desktop app for Linux, so those users have to use the web app if they want to run WhatsApp on their computers. That means they've never before been able to place calls without pulling out a mobile device. How to sign up for the WhatsApp web app betaThis feature will soon roll out to all web app users, but until then, you need to be running the WhatsApp web app beta in order to try it. Luckily, it's pretty easy to get up and running. To start, open the web app, then head to the settings menu, choose "Help," then choose the "Join beta" option. This will immediately switch you over to the beta version of the web app. (You should see a "Beta" label on your screen.) Now that you're running the beta, should you find the option to place calls in individual chats. View the full article

Yes, yes we all know customer behavior is changing and Reddit conversations showing up in AI search is a big part of that shift. What are you doing about it? If your Reddit marketing strategy hasn’t evolved since 2024 (or you don’t have one to start with), you’re not just behind. You might be actively harming your brand. We’re past the point of debating whether brands should be on Reddit. That part’s settled. This session is about how to navigate Reddit the right way. And, we’re going to show you exactly how to do it! I am super excited to […] The post Make 2026 The Year Your Business Thrives On Reddit [Webinar] appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Borrowers in the lowest-income areas have seen their 90 or more day delinquency rates soar since 2021, jumping from 0.5% to nearly 3%, the New York Fed said. View the full article