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Former CEO Michael Strauss, who's left a wake of debts in New York, has no assets of value for plaintiffs to recover even if they secured default judgment. View the full article

Surveyed employees at top mortgage companies say pay is solid: 83% feel fairly compensated, with bonuses, benefits, and flexible options helping recognize hard work. View the full article

It takes a few moments to see the spotted jaguar slinking through the dense, sun-dappled jungle scene projected onto a wall inside the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C. Soon after, the projection changes to a snowy forest where it takes even longer to notice one—no, two—human figures nestled among bushes and rocks, obscured by gravelly full-body suits and skin-concealing tactical gear. The hidden figures, animal and human, are quintessential examples of the subject of Camouflage: Designed to Deceive, the museum’s clever and surprisingly wide-ranging new exhibition. From army fatigues to decoy tanks to double-agent disguises to the literal chameleons of the natural world, the exhibition explores the history and evolution of camouflage in its various forms and uses. “We felt that it was in many ways the original deception,” says Kathryn Keane, VP of exhibitions and collections at the International Spy Museum. She calls camouflage an example of extreme evolution, and notes that it was first studied in the 19th century by scientists who recognized the biomorphological advantages animals had developed through color matching, disruption, self-decoration, and mimicry. “[It’s] this unique and fascinating phenomenon that allowed animals to evade detection and survive,” Keane says. “And humans adapted it for many of the same reasons.” That’s how camouflage got its most common interpretation, in the form of camouflage military uniforms, of which the exhibition has a dozen full-size examples. But just as 19th-century scientists saw in animals, camouflage can take a wider variety of forms. To tell that broader story, the museum worked with the experience design studio Local Projects, which helped craft a narrative for the exhibition and designed the physical­—and highly visual—visitor experience. “An exhibition about camouflage is a designer’s dream, really, because camo itself is this really unique kind of design,” says Nathan Adkisson, creative director of Local Projects. Pulling from the museum’s collection of more than 10,000 artifacts from the world of spycraft and intelligence, Local Projects broke down the topic of camouflage into four main categories: Disappear, Distort, Disguise, and Deceive. Each is given its own gallery in the museum’s 6,000-square-foot temporary exhibition space. The Disappear gallery includes those camo uniforms, from the first khakis worn by British soldiers in 19th-century India to the snow-blending gear being worn in forests today by Ukrainian soldiers. The Distort gallery focuses on misdirection, most notably in a scale model of the zebra-like “razzle dazzle” designs used on battleships during World War I. The Disguise gallery shows how spies have used everything from false beards to hyperrealistic face masks to conceal their identities. The Deceive gallery includes examples of what some spies have done to blend into everyday situations, appearing so normal as to fade into the background. Other highlights include a model of Boeing Wonderland, the ersatz suburban development that was built like a stage set to conceal a Seattle-area airplane factory during World War II. A tilted mirror above the model gives visitors a sense of just how convincing this would have been to an enemy warplane flying overhead. There’s also a child-friendly interactive component that lets visitors create their own camouflage pattern and virtually apply it to fatigues or sneakers. Another interactive piece shows how facial recognition cameras work, and the ways some people have been able to deceive them. “Probably my favorite thing about the exhibition is this ability to talk about a design phenomenon that’s actually had an impact on history,” says Keane. The exhibition goes beyond battlefields and spycraft to show how camouflage has entered art, pop culture, and fashion. Looking both to the past and to the future, the exhibition offers a window into the ways camouflage continues to be shaped by new technology. One gallery displays EagleEye, the AI-enabled augmented reality headset designed for the U.S. military that gives soldiers advanced optical abilities that can essentially see through the camouflage used by opponents on the battlefield. Another delves into deepfake videos and the ways technology can be used to distort reality. “The story isn’t just a historical story, it’s one that still is relevant today,” says Adkisson. “My hope is when people leave the exhibition they will go out onto the sidewalk and through their day actually looking around a little bit more asking themselves that question, ‘What am I not seeing here? What else is going on?’” View the full article

Optimism has a branding problem at work. It often shows up as pressure to stay upbeat in meetings, reassurance that everything will work out, or encouragement to find the silver lining when pressure mounts. When things feel uncertain, that approach tends to backfire. As a clinical psychologist, I’ve seen how well-intentioned positivity can actually make work more strenuous. When you’re already stretched thin, being told to “stay positive” doesn’t help you reset. Research shows that when people feel pressure to suppress stress or override difficult emotions, the nervous system stays in a heightened threat state, reducing activity in the prefrontal cortex–the part of the brain responsible for focus, planning, and decision-making. In other words, forced positivity keeps the brain on high alert, narrowing thinking rather than expanding it and making it harder to focus on what actually matters Real optimism operates differently. It helps you stay engaged and mentally flexible when outcomes aren’t clear. At work, it shows up through small, practical behaviors that reduce friction and keep you cognitively present instead of overwhelmed. Here are three ways to practice real optimism on the job without ignoring stress or pretending everything is fine. Name the obstacle before choosing the task When uncertainty creeps in, many people stay busy to feel productive, even when the real issue hasn’t been resolved. From a cognitive standpoint, this creates friction. When constraints are unclear, the brain struggles to commit to decisions. Unanswered questions stay active in the background, quietly pulling attention away from higher-value thinking and making it harder to prioritize or finish. Research on affect labeling shows that simply naming a concern reduces stress-related brain activity and restores access to higher-order thinking. When uncertainty is left unnamed, the brain keeps working to manage it internally. When it’s clearly identified, that mental load eases. Real optimism starts by naming what’s unresolved. Saying something as simple as “I don’t have clarity on the scope yet” brings uncertainty into the open instead of letting it quietly drain your energy. Once the issue is named, it’s easier to decide what to do next: ask for guidance, flag what’s holding things up, or pause work that can’t move forward right now. Focus returns because you’re no longer carrying something unspoken in the background. Replace reassurance with next-step clarity When uncertainty rises, especially in group settings, communication often becomes softer instead of clearer. The instinct is to smooth things over, but without concrete direction, that softness can leave people more unsettled than reassured. The brain perceives vagueness as unresolved risk. In fact, ambiguity is often more distressing to the brain than known negative outcomes, draining attention span and causing people to quietly disengage without a clear path forward. Real optimism introduces structure. Even small points of clarity—when the next decision will happen, what input is still missing, or what work can move ahead—help the nervous system settle. Direction restores focus, even when the outcome itself is still uncertain. Change the language of performance Remember, your words matter, especially when things go wrong. When performance conversations center on failure, the nervous system senses threat, and behavior shifts. People become more guarded and defensive, often sticking to safer ideas and avoiding risks that may move work forward. The brain prioritizes self-protection, so problem-solving naturally slows. Shifting the language toward curiosity keeps the brain engaged. Focusing on what you learned from the misstep or what could be changed moving forward helps people stay mentally present. A truly optimistic workplace views mistakes as valuable information, not evidence of failure. Mistakes don’t disappear in environments like this. What changes is recovery. Instead of lingering as evidence of failure, missteps become information the work can actually use. Optimism That Helps You Think At work, optimism is often treated as a tone someone else is responsible for maintaining. But what people actually experience as optimism shows up differently. It’s felt in the ability to think clearly, make decisions, and stay engaged under pressure. You can see it in whether uncertainty is named instead of glossed over, whether information is shared plainly, and whether conversations create clarity instead of avoidance. In workplaces where change is constant, that kind of optimism is often the most useful one available—not a brighter mood, but a steadier mind that can keep working even when conditions aren’t fully settled. View the full article

Most organisations are no longer made up of one homogenous group of full-time employees. Instead, they’re becoming ecosystems. A mix of permanent employees, fractional leaders, freelancers, contractors, project specialists, and increasingly, technology and AI are doing part of the work too. In fact, the workforce of 2026 is predicted to become “agentic”, whereby AI agents are expected to displace or reshape tasks and roles. This makes collaboration with AI a necessity, not for the future of work, but now. This emerging blended workforce gives organisations access to a wider range of skills, faster. It allows them to scale up and down as demand changes. It creates flexibility in the face of constant disruption. And, for many businesses, it’s the only viable way to get the expertise they need without locking themselves into cost and complexity they can’t sustain. But there is an issue. We’re getting better at assembling blended workforces. We’re much less skilled at leading them. If blended workforces are going to deliver on their promise, leaders need to stop asking “How do we manage all these different people/technologies?” and start asking “How do we lead them as one?” What is needed is a relational leadership model, where leaders can adapt to the different requirements of a blended workforce, whilst enabling them to work as a team. The ‘Agentic Workforce’ and Relational Leadership AI accelerates the need for skills like adaptability, systems thinking, context switching, and relational intelligence. As a result, leaders and C-suite executives in 2026 will more often be chosen for their ability to lead in a world shaped by AI, sustainability, and rapid change, rather than purely for traditional P&L or operational metrics. For example, one report by Hays points to “redesigning the C-suite around strategic priorities,” including future capabilities and leadership development. When it comes to the blended, agentic workforce, CXOs will play the vital role of orchestrator between human and AI teams. A report from M.CAST states that the “AI literacy gap threatens productivity,” requiring leaders to upskill their workforces to understand and build trust in AI. How can it be used, why, and when? What do workforces need? How can they work in partnership? A different style of leadership is required to effectively utilise and lead this blended workforce. We need to see a shift from a command-and-control to a relational approach. This means leaders must focus on cultivating collaborative relationships and collective practices with and between each key player in the blended ecosystem. This is where psychological ownership becomes critical. Developing Psychological Ownership with Blended Teams Building strong relationships with a blended workforce that can withstand the pressures of rapid digital transformation requires psychological ownership—the state in which individuals feel as though a target of ownership is “theirs.” Ownership comes from clarity, trust, inclusion, and being genuinely connected to outcomes. Without psychological ownership, relationships are at risk of feeling superficial. Talent has no sense of belonging and they lack job satisfaction, self-worth, and identity—components that are particularly vital for working alongside AI. Learning how to develop the following four routes of psychological ownership will help leaders to build enduring and valuable relationships with their blended workforce: Control Feelings of control increase a sense of ownership over our work. To develop control, leaders must be available, accessible, and approachable for their blended workforce. Communicate your availability, be flexible, and clarify the purpose and goals of work while allowing talent the freedom to choose the best way to achieve them. Intimacy The more information and intimate knowledge leaders and their blended workforce have about each other, the deeper the relationship between them, and the stronger the feelings of psychological ownership. This requires leaders to be vulnerable—sharing appropriately some vulnerability will encourage others to do the same. Be genuinely curious and interested in them as people and build trust via transparency, sticking to commitments, being consistent, and showing appreciation. Self-investment Investment can take many forms—time, skills, ideas, physical, and psychological and intellectual energies. The more the investment, the more the leader and their blended workforce will feel connected. To develop self-investment, cocreate strategies together, like a strategy to answer the question: “How can we work in partnership with AI?” By inviting input and participation in this way, outcomes are achieved collectively and collaboratively. Psychological safety Feeling psychologically safe and being able to speak up in group settings without fear of negative repercussions is key to psychological ownership. If members of the blended workforce have concerns about the integration of AI, they must feel comfortable to voice these. To develop psychological safety, actively listen without judgement and create empathy—what is it like in their shoes? Encourage sharing and foster a willingness to help each other by creating a positive attitude towards risk and failure. A necessary shift The growing complexity of workforce ecosystems to incorporate blended working and AI integration necessitates a shift in how people are led. Everyone will have different ways of working, different skills and knowledge, and different challenges and concerns. Adopting a relational leadership approach, one that focuses on developing psychological ownership, provides the space for vital upskilling in an environment underpinned by trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. By enhancing control, intimacy, self-investment, and psychological safety, leaders can support the various needs of a blended workforce, ultimately enabling harmonious teamwork and collective growth. View the full article

Despite decades of scientific research, incredible advances in deep analytics and AI, and no shortage of good intentions, many organizations still struggle to select and develop the leaders they need to navigate increasingly complex and unpredictable business challenges. Markets are volatile, uncertainty is constant, and leadership quality matters more than ever. Yet many firms still fail to identify and elevate the best (or at least right) leadership talent available. Contrary to what many people think, more often than not, the problem is not a shortage of capable leaders. Rather, it is a failure of the systems designed to identify, develop, and advance them, which simultaneously results in selecting and investing in the wrong candidates, with tragic consequences for organizations. Consider a glaring example: women. For several years now, women have represented more than half of the workforce in most advanced economies. They also outperform men in higher education across the OECD, earning the majority of university and postgraduate degrees. In many countries, women also achieve higher average grades and completion rates. Research further shows that women tend, on average, to score higher on several of the leadership capabilities organizations claim to value most. These include emotional intelligence, self-awareness, collaboration, and integrity, and they have proven links to stronger leadership performance. Women are also less likely to display certain “dark side” personality traits such as narcissism, impulsivity, and excessive risk-taking, characteristics that are frequently associated with destructive leadership. And yet, paradoxically, as careers progress, the leadership pipeline narrows dramatically in favor of men. Across most industries and regions, women remain significantly underrepresented in executive roles, board positions, and CEO seats. The economic implications are considerable. Various estimates suggest that narrowing gender gaps in leadership participation could add trillions of dollars to global GDP. Even for those who approach the issue purely from a commercial perspective, the cost of underutilized leadership talent is difficult to ignore. Leading with science One obvious way to address this paradox is to align leadership selection and development with science-based approaches, using data and evidence to select on leadership potential and develop the right leadership qualities so that performance actually increases and leadership talent improves. If organizations adopted more rigorous, evidence-based approaches to identifying and developing leadership talent, two outcomes would likely follow simultaneously. The overall quality of leadership would improve, and the proportion of women in senior roles would rise. In other words, better systems would produce both stronger leaders and more balanced gender outcomes. A science-based approach to leadership would also address the current lack of enthusiasm for many traditional diversity initiatives over recent years. Too often, such popular initiatives emphasize good intentions rather than measurable results. For instance, programs designed to encourage women to “lean in,” be more confident, network more strategically, or emulate traditionally male leadership styles may offer useful advice in some contexts. But these approaches focus on adapting individuals to flawed systems rather than improving the systems themselves. In a meritocratic environment with systems designed to accurately detect leadership potential, there is surely no need to teach people (women or men) to self-promote, manage up, take credit for others’ achievements, and become successful corporate politicians. Similarly, workshops on unconscious bias or well-meaning diversity pledges may raise awareness without meaningfully changing how organizations identify and promote leadership talent. So, what would a science-based approach look like? 1. Make selection gender-blind (focus on talent, not gender) Many diversity initiatives begin with targets rather than diagnoses. Organizations decide they want more women in leadership roles and then design programs intended to move the numbers. The difficulty is that the underlying systems used to identify leadership talent often remain unchanged. Promotion decisions in many organizations still rely heavily on informal nominations, personal sponsorship, subjective impressions, and traditional archetypes of leadership. These processes tend to reward visibility, confidence, and political fluency rather than actual leadership effectiveness. When talent identification depends on intuition or familiarity, leaders tend to select people who resemble those already in power. A more effective alternative is to remove gender from the equation altogether and focus instead on measuring leadership potential and performance with scientific rigor. Decades of research in organizational psychology show that structured, evidence-based assessments are far better predictors of leadership effectiveness than intuition or informal recommendations. Validated psychometric assessments, structured interviews, behavioral simulations, and performance analytics provide a far more reliable signal of who actually has the capabilities required to lead. Today, advances in data science, analytics, and (well-designed and validated) AI make it possible to take this approach even further. Organizations can analyze large datasets on performance, leadership behaviors, decision patterns, team outcomes, and career trajectories to identify the attributes that truly predict leadership success. When these models are applied consistently and objectively, they reduce reliance on subjective judgments that often distort talent decisions. In effect, this approach creates a gender-blind evaluation of leadership potential. The outcome is not only fairer but also more effective. When organizations measure leadership talent rigorously rather than relying on human intuition, two things tend to happen simultaneously: leadership performance improves, and the candidate pool becomes more balanced. An analogy can be found in professional sports scouting. Teams that rely on reputation and instinct frequently overlook high-performing athletes. Teams that rely on objective performance metrics often uncover talent others missed. Leadership pipelines operate in much the same way. To be more specific, if men and women do not differ meaningfully in leadership potential, the solution is not to “fix” one group or train individuals to mimic traditional leadership stereotypes. The solution is to improve the systems used to identify leadership talent in the first place, irrespective of gender. 2. Measure ROI and impact Another common mistake is treating diversity initiatives as symbolic commitments rather than operational experiments. Organizations frequently introduce mentoring programs, leadership accelerators, or training initiatives designed to support women. Yet, they rarely measure whether those programs actually improve leadership outcomes. In most areas of business, initiatives that fail to produce measurable impact are quickly reassessed. Diversity initiatives should be subject to the same discipline. A more effective approach is to treat these programs like strategic investments. Track outcomes such as promotion rates, leadership performance scores, employee engagement, retention, and business results. In other words, evaluate whether interventions improve leadership quality, not just representation. When organizations measure outcomes rigorously, two things tend to happen. Ineffective initiatives are identified and discontinued, while successful ones can be expanded and refined. In short, evidence replaces ideology, science replaces intuition. 3. Remove structural barriers Identifying leadership talent is only half the battle. Even the most rigorous selection systems will fail if the environment into which leaders are promoted contains structural barriers that distort how performance is evaluated and rewarded. In other words, attracting capable candidates or selecting individuals with genuine leadership potential is pointless if the evaluation system itself is biased, or if the organizational context prevents people’s talents from being fully expressed. Many such barriers are not deliberate or visible. They tend to emerge from the way organizations measure success, assess reputation, or distribute opportunities. Consider a few common examples. Research has shown that identical leadership behaviors are often interpreted differently depending on who displays them. Assertiveness in men may be described as confidence, while the same behavior in women may be labeled abrasive or aggressive. Similarly, collaborative leadership styles may be undervalued in environments that equate leadership with dominance or visibility. Another source of distortion comes from reliance on reputation-based evaluation systems. Leaders are often promoted based on perceived status, visibility with senior executives, or informal sponsorship networks. These mechanisms tend to favor individuals who resemble those already in power, while disadvantaging unconventional candidates or those operating outside dominant networks. In addition, traditional performance metrics may capture outputs without adequately measuring the value leaders actually create. For instance, individuals who inherit high-performing teams or favorable market conditions may appear more successful than leaders who quietly transform underperforming units. When organizations evaluate outcomes without accounting for context, they risk rewarding circumstance rather than capability. This is where scientific approaches and modern data tools can help. Advanced analytics and AI allow organizations to examine performance data at a much deeper level than traditional evaluations permit. Instead of relying primarily on reputation or visibility, organizations can analyze how leaders influence measurable outcomes: improvements in team performance, retention, innovation, decision quality, or long-term value creation. These tools can also detect systematic biases embedded in evaluation systems. By analyzing patterns in performance reviews, promotion decisions, and feedback language, organizations can identify whether certain groups consistently receive different types of evaluations, slower career progression, or narrower development opportunities. Equally important, data-driven approaches allow organizations to move beyond measuring success as a static outcome and toward measuring value added. For example, rather than simply rewarding the leader of the highest-performing business unit, organizations can examine how much improvement that leader generated relative to where the team started. Instead of evaluating managers solely on revenue or output, companies can analyze the extent to which they improved employee engagement, reduced turnover, strengthened collaboration, or accelerated innovation. When evaluation systems focus on value created rather than status accumulated, leadership assessments become both fairer and more predictive. Technology, often viewed as a potential source of bias, can therefore become an important tool for reducing it. When combined with scientific measurement and transparent metrics, data-driven evaluation systems help ensure that leadership advancement reflects genuine capability rather than familiarity, reputation, or historical advantage. In short, identifying talent is essential. But removing the structural barriers that obscure and constrain that talent is what ultimately allows it to flourish. 4. Redesign succession systems Leadership pipelines are shaped not only by evaluation systems but also by succession processes. Too often, succession systems are designed to preserve the status quo. They unintentionally favor candidates who resemble existing leaders or who followed traditional career paths. If organizations want to broaden leadership pipelines, they must rethink how those systems operate. First, they need to create more pathways to the top. High-potential leaders should gain enterprise-level experience earlier in their careers. Many women, particularly those coming from functional roles such as HR, legal, or marketing, are less likely to receive early P&L responsibility or cross-enterprise assignments. Without those experiences they may later be perceived as lacking the experience required for senior roles. Deliberately assigning stretch roles earlier helps develop enterprise leadership capability and expands the pool of future executives. Second, succession processes should default to inclusion rather than self-selection. Research suggests that men are somewhat more likely to assume they are ready for senior roles, while women may wait to be invited. When succession requires individuals to nominate themselves, this dynamic can unintentionally reinforce the gap. When qualified leaders are automatically considered for succession pipelines, organizations signal that a broader group of individuals is seen as potential leadership talent. Third, organizations should make the informal rules of leadership advancement more transparent. Many talented leaders do not lack capability; they lack access to the unwritten norms that influence leadership selection. Mentorship can help bridge this gap by making these norms visible. 5. Embrace cognitive diversity Another effective way to improve gender diversity and leadership talent is to focus on something broader: cognitive diversity. Cognitive diversity refers to the range of thinking styles, perspectives, skills, and values that individuals bring to decision-making. Teams composed entirely of people with similar backgrounds and temperaments often fall prey to groupthink. By contrast, teams that incorporate a wider variety of perspectives are better able to challenge assumptions, identify blind spots, and improve the quality of decisions. Importantly, cognitive diversity often leads naturally to demographic diversity. When organizations deliberately assemble teams with varied perspectives, leadership styles, and problem-solving approaches, gender balance and other forms of diversity frequently follow. Some people argue that emphasizing cognitive diversity is merely a way of sidestepping demographic diversity. In reality, the logic runs in the opposite direction. One of the main reasons organizations value gender diversity in the first place is precisely because individuals with different backgrounds and life experiences tend to bring different ways of thinking. The purpose of diversity is not simply representation, but the broader range of perspectives that improves judgment and decision quality. Rather than treating diversity as a compliance objective, organizations should therefore treat it as a strategy for improving organizational effectiveness, innovation, and long-term performance. 6. Treat leadership development as a continuous system (rather than a one off treat) Finally, organizations must recognize that leadership development is continuous rather than episodic. No single workshop, mentoring program, or leadership course produces a CEO. Leadership capability develops over time through repeated stretch experiences, feedback, and reflection. Efforts fail when they are treated as isolated initiatives. They succeed when development is embedded in the broader system through which talent is identified, developed, and advanced. Organizations that make meaningful progress approach leadership development the way engineers optimize complex systems: they introduce changes, measure outcomes, refine their approach, and repeat. Like with compound interest rates, small improvements accumulate over time. From intentions to outcomes Discussions about gender diversity often drift into predictable camps. Some frame the issue primarily as one of fairness or representation, while others dismiss many diversity initiatives as symbolic gestures that achieve little in practice. Both positions, however, tend to overlook a simpler and more practical point. Organizations perform better when they are able to identify, develop, and deploy the best leadership talent available. If a significant portion of that talent remains overlooked or underutilized, the system is not working as intended. The cost is not only social or reputational. It is operational. Seen from this perspective, improving gender diversity is less about correcting outcomes directly and more about improving the systems that generate those outcomes in the first place. Paradoxically, one of the most effective ways to achieve more balanced leadership may be to focus less on gender itself and more on the quality of leadership selection and development. Measure talent with greater precision. Evaluate interventions with evidence rather than aspiration. Remove structural barriers that distort how performance is judged. Broaden pathways into leadership roles. And design teams that benefit from genuine diversity of thinking. When leadership systems become more objective, data-driven, and evidence-based, two things tend to happen at once: leadership quality improves and representation becomes more balanced, not just in terms of gender, but also in terms of cognitive diversity. In the end, intentions matter far less than system design. Organizations rarely get the leaders they hope for. They get the leaders their systems are built to produce. View the full article

For years now, pundits and politicians have been predicting that the apparent AI bubble would soon burst. Companies have poured hundreds of billions of dollars into snazzy new data centers and absurdly well compensated research teams in hopes of building powerful, wildly profitable AI models. That’s despite the fact that even the most innovative AI companies still have modest revenues. OpenAI earned just $20 billion in 2025—less than the struggling Ross department stores make selling clothes, and about the same as Frito-Lay earns peddling potato chips. Given those earning realities, the current absurd level of investment feels unsustainable. But if OpenAI’s massive new funding round is any indication, the AI bubble isn’t going to burst. At least, not yet. Billions Upon Billions In late February, OpenAI announced that it had raised $110 billion to continue building its world-leading frontier models. The deal values OpenAI at between $730 and $840 billion. And perhaps more importantly, the round was led by massive companies and institutional investors, lending that valuation some real credibility. Amazon reportedly chipped in $50 billion, NVIDIA contributed $30 billion, and SoftBank matched NVIDIA’s contribution. In turn, OpenAI agreed to use Amazon’s cloud infrastructure for some of its products, and secured access to more cutting-edge AI chips from NVIDIA. OpenAI said the deal would allow it to scale “AI for everyone” while also funneling more capital into its nonprofit OpenAI Foundation. The deal is especially notable because OpenAI is still a private company. Back in the olden days (which in Silicon Valley means “a decade ago”), companies had to go public to raise these kinds of funds. Now, companies like OpenAI and Elon Musk’s newly merged xAI/SpaceX can push $1 trillion valuations without needing to involve pesky public market investors, or accept the scrutiny that doing an IPO brings. Of course, OpenAI could always go public later—as many expect it to eventually do—and likely raise hundreds of billions more. What Bubble? OpenAI’s massive influx of cash is also notable because some industry experts thought it might never happen. NVIDIA reportedly toyed with the idea of investing $100 billion into OpenAI all on its own, before seeming to get cold feet. That pullback–coupled with OpenAI’s very weird governance structure—made some analysts nervous. Stansberry Research’s Whitney Tilson wrote about a month before OpenAI’s February round was announced that “…’seeking’ $100 billion is very different than ‘receiving’ $100 billion,” and predicted “When (not if) OpenAI fails to raise the money it seeks, that will be a key indicator the bubble is bursting—and it will be time to get out.” Likewise, analyst and NYU professor Gary Marcus told Goldman Sachs that “current AI ventures aren’t generating enough profit to justify their lofty valuations. People are starting to get that message. And if enough people get that message on the same day, it will start to look like a bank run.” They needn’t have worried. OpenAI seems to have had no trouble at all completing one of history’s biggest private funding rounds. And more investors–including tons of retail investors who would love something to invest in besides GameStop and Tesla–are almost certainly waiting in the wings. All that suggests that fears of a funding failure—and subsequent popping of the AI bubble–were probably overblown. OpenAI now has plenty of cash to keep burning billions for months, at least. The fact that OpenAI is continuing to pour money into building AI infrastructure also means that larger (and far richer) competitors like Google and Meta will be practically forced to do the same—or risk uncomfortable questions from their own investors. The gravy train of AI money will thus continue to chug on, as the flywheel of AI funding shows no signs of slowing down. Where it Ends I’ll take a moment here to note that nothing in here is investment advice, and you shouldn’t trade based on anything in this article. That’s especially true because despite the sunny picture painted by OpenAI’s gigantic raise, the fundamental business challenge facing generative AI remains unchanged. Again, OpenAI’s revenue is paltry. Yes, it’s growing. But so is McDonald’s. As multiple analysts have pointed out, investors are happy to overlook that and throw wads of money at OpenAI and its ilk because they expect generative AI to take over the labor market, make humans obsolete, and usher in an era of transformative leisure in which we all swim in lakes while benignly intelligent supercomputers run the economy for us. The moment that future shows signs of not appearing, though, investors like Amazon could decide to pull back and put their money into more practical things, like selling you toasters and ruining legacy filmmaking. That moment didn’t happen this month. But it could still be just around the corner. “AI is certainly in a financial bubble,” Marcus told Goldman Sachs. “Just as no one could predict the exact moment the Dutch Tulip Mania would end, it’s impossible to know when this bubble will burst—but it will burst.” View the full article

Synaptics is front running the competition by betting on a new generation of IoT devices with embedded AI. The post Embedded World: Synaptics launches the world’s first Wi-Fi 7 & AI-native chip for IoT, ushers in new era of ultra-smart IoT devices appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

Niels Christiansen says Mette Frederiksen’s idea would ‘drain quite a lot of capital out of companies’View the full article

At 92 years old, Willie Nelson has aged out of his title as the “world’s most prolific octogenarian,” but that doesn’t mean he’s slowed down. The country music legend, who has released more than 150 albums over his more than six-decade-long career and sold more than 40 million in the United States alone, has found a new milestone to reach. This time, as an entrepreneur rather than an outlaw. Nelson’s eponymous THC-infused beverage brand Willie’s Remedy+ has hit an $80-million run rate, according to the company—a multi-platinum feat for a startup that only started selling its cans and bottles online less than a year ago. For Nelson, who used to smoke two to three packs of cigarettes a day before giving up tobacco and alcohol years ago, the mission is personal. “Everything I do is related to something I did before,” Nelson tells Inc. “[This is] a great substitute for alcohol, and I know a lot of people drink too much . . . Alcohol has killed so many of my friends that, on top of that, I still open the show with ‘Whiskey River.’” His company is a joint venture with kombucha brewer and canned cocktail maker JuneShine Brands, which provides the sales, marketing, and distribution for Willie’s Remedy+. Nelson’s hemp-derived social tonics and seltzers, which come in 5-milligram and 10-milligram varieties, launched within a matter of months. Discussions started at the end of 2024, and the first products rolled out by March 2025. Nelson says he is “not surprised at all” by how quickly the brand resonated with consumers, but the trajectory has outperformed even JuneShine’s projections. “We had big expectations, but we thought it would take a little bit of time just given our experience,” says Forrest Dein, JuneShine’s co-founder and chief marketing officer. “It was just overnight.” Dein, who also serves as a co-founder of Willie’s Remedy+, has even bigger ambitions. With premium brand positioning and solid unit economics supported by high margins, which Dein says are significantly stronger than JuneShine’s, he wants the brand to become the “Olipop in the THC category.” That sales velocity and vision caught investors’ attention. Willie’s Remedy+ raised a $15 million series A funding round led by Left Lane Capital, which has invested in buzzy consumer startups such as Bilt, Blank Street, and Dein’s own North Star, Olipop. The investment round also included participation from Second Sight Ventures. After starting with a direct-to-consumer model, the startup plans to use the capital to expand further into retail, with a goal of hitting 10,000 points of distribution by this summer. Currently, Willie’s Remedy+ is available in some stores, including Total Wine, Lowes Food, TXB Stores, and Binny’s Beverage Depot, and on delivery platforms, including GoPuff and DoorDash. After selling out of stock three times in the past 10 months—generating a 10,000-person waiting list at one point—the company says it will also be investing in inventory. JuneShine is not actively pursuing more partnerships like this, Dein says. Nelson provided a unique exception. Dein is originally from the island of Maui, where he went to high school with Nelson’s kids and became friends with his older son, Luke. With that personal history and a brand that he thought they could sell, Dein says he had to say yes. “This story is as good as it gets, and there’s no one more authentic than Willie,” he says. “There’s no one who’s more synonymous with cannabis.” Around 50 of JuneShine’s employees work on Willie’s Remedy+. The funding will also allow the mostly West Coast-based team to expand and hire more people in the brand’s strongest markets: Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Compared to other canned THC drink brands, such as Wynx and Cann, the customer base for Willie’s Remedy+ skews much older, and the brand is embracing that difference, investing heavily in advertising on Meta and podcasts, particularly in the news, politics, and culture space. “Everyone’s chasing this kind of millennial [or] Gen Z drinker across trends on TikTok” says Dein. “Our customers are retired and have money.” Unsurprisingly, Willie’s Remedy+ sponsored Nelson’s 40-show tour last summer, and the company is eyeing live events as a potential growth driver over the longer term as more consumers sample THC-infused beverages for the first time and become comfortable sipping outside of their homes. In five years, Dein believes the category could be massive, with people drinking THC drinks everywhere that they drink alcohol now. Still, with the uncertainty on the federal regulatory front, Dein says that “having some cash on hand would put us in a really good position.” —Ali Donaldson This article originally appeared on Fast Company’s sister website, Inc.com. Inc. is the voice of the American entrepreneur. We inspire, inform, and document the most fascinating people in business: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters that represent the most dynamic force in the American economy. View the full article

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You want more confidence at work, but chances are you’re struggling to feel it. In fact, many people say that even if they’re achieving success, they still feel behind or doubt themselves. Confidence is critical not only to accomplishing objectives, but also to your self-esteem. It’s even linked with greater salary, status, and job satisfaction. When you demonstrate confidence, people are more likely to collaborate with you, and you’re also more likely to have the kind of impact that contributes to your self-assurance. But confidence is at a premium today. In fact, while 77% of people say they’re successful, 81% still feel they are behind others, according to a survey by Headway. On top of that, MyPerfectResume found that 66% feel pressure to act more confident than they are, 43% feel like imposters, and 58% say self-doubt has negatively affected their career advancement. On the other hand, when people feel more confident, it translates into measurable results. In a study published in the Journal of Vocational Behavior, when people had higher levels of confidence and believed in their own capabilities, they experienced more promotions, higher salaries, and greater career satisfaction. So how can you build your confidence? These are the best ways to raise your self-possession, self-assurance, and conviction. KNOW YOURSELF AND KNOW YOUR STUFF One of the first ways to build confidence is to increase your self-awareness. Take stock of what you do well and reinforce these skills for yourself. Perhaps you’re brilliant with big-picture thinking or you excel with details. Or you’re the person on the team who everyone comes to for advice. Reflect, consider, and focus on these strengths. In addition, be clear with yourself about what you want to get better at and then take steps to enhance your capabilities. When you know your stuff, you can show up with strength and a strong point of view. Observe others who have credibility and emulate them. Look for classes where you can develop key skills. Join associations or committees where you can grow your capabilities. Confidence is a matter of both how you feel about yourself and the substance that you have to draw from, so you’re wise to build both your beliefs and your skills. AVOID COMPARISONS The classic saying, “Comparison is the thief of joy,” is accurate. The more you compare yourself with others, the more your well-being tends to deteriorate. This is partly because when you compare, you often come up short. Fully 74% of respondents in the MyPerfectResume survey said that comparison increases the pressure they face and drives self-doubt. But even if you compare yourself with others and believe you’re ahead, your assessment can lead to a feeling of disconnection or alienation from others. It’s better to compete with your own achievements, setting your next target and seeking to improve all the time. Pay attention to others so you can learn from them, but stop short of judging yourself in relation to others. We’ve each had unique journeys, so it can be unfair to you—and to them—if you use the same yardstick to assess success. EMBRACE DISCOMFORT We tend to look for situations in which we feel comfortable and can avoid difficulty. But in reality, seeking challenges and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone are highly effective ways to build your confidence. Growth doesn’t happen without discomfort, and when you try something new, you learn—and you’ll raise your resilience. Every time you solve a new problem, you gain from the experience, and every time you encounter a new struggle and rely on yourself to respond constructively, you build your ability to cope the next time. When you try something new, you’re not guaranteed success, but you will certainly have the opportunity to learn from it. Of course, you don’t want to create problems for yourself, but you are wise to take the initiative to try something new, to offer your help on a project that stretches your current capabilities, or to volunteer for challenging activities that contribute to your team, your organization, or your community. SEEK FEEDBACK Another surefire way to build your confidence is to connect with a community of people you can rely on to support you and give you feedback. You’ll want people in your network who can provide safe haven support when you are struggling and just need a shoulder to lean on. But you’ll also want people in your network who will give you tough feedback about how you can get better. According to the MyPerfectResume data, 24% of people say that a lack of feedback contributes to their self-doubt. But when you seek assessments or critiques from others, you’ll build your confidence based on feeling seen and based on the opportunity to improve in areas that will help you most. Find the people who will be your advocates and build relationships with them by asking for their input and advice, and by offering support to them as well. A CAUTION One caution: While you’re building your confidence, it’s also important that you avoid tipping into arrogance. People are most drawn to those who are firm in their points of view, but also who don’t have an inflated sense of their own importance. Others are put off by arrogance or self-absorption, so keep an appropriate level of humility. Building your confidence is worth the effort for tremendous payoffs in career satisfaction and success, and you can take small steps that add up over time. Know yourself, build your skills, and avoid comparison with others. In addition, embrace new opportunities for growth and find your people. All of these will help you accomplish greater self-assurance and quell self-doubt as you look to the rest of the year with optimism. View the full article

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In the realm of marketing, product videos play an essential role in capturing attention and conveying messages effectively. The “10 Best Product Video Creators” offer diverse services customized to meet various needs, from high-quality production to compelling storytelling. These creators, including Moonb and Vidico, employ innovative techniques to improve brand visibility and drive customer engagement. Comprehending their unique strengths can help you choose the right creator for your marketing strategy, leading to impactful results. Key Takeaways Moonb offers subscription-based corporate video services with project management tools, ensuring smooth communication and flexible contract-free production. 90 Seconds features a marketplace for vetted video creators, providing custom quotes to align production with specific project needs and budgets. Awakened Films specializes in high-quality corporate videos and live events, utilizing a structured production process for seamless project management. Vidico excels in brand storytelling, managing projects from ideation to post-production, delivering emotionally resonant narratives for larger-budget initiatives. Video Supply focuses on video marketing that generates leads and sales, with a strong track record of creating engaging content for online brands. Moonb When you’re looking for a reliable partner in video marketing, Moonb stands out as a compelling option. This agency specializes in corporate video services and offers a flexible subscription-based model, making it easy for you to access their expertise as a marketing video maker. With a focus on collaboration, Moonb integrates project management tools like Trello and Slack, ensuring smooth communication throughout the process. They provide weekly strategy calls to align on production goals, enhancing your engagement. As a product video creator, Moonb adopts a contract-free approach, allowing you to use their full-service production without long-term commitments. If you’re unsure, take advantage of their 3-day free trial, which lets you experience their promotional video maker capabilities firsthand. Vidico When you’re looking for a video creator that thrives in brand storytelling, Vidico stands out as a top choice. Based in Australia, they manage the entire project lifecycle, making it easy for you to navigate high-budget commercial productions from start to finish. With their expertise in live-action and animation, Vidico delivers high-quality videos that effectively communicate your brand’s message. Brand Storytelling Expertise Vidico thrives in the domain of brand storytelling, skillfully transforming a company’s services and values into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. They excel in creating marketing videos, including website product demo videos and promotional videos, guaranteeing your brand stands out. Here are four key aspects of their storytelling expertise: Emotional Connection: Vidico emphasizes storytelling techniques to forge deep connections with viewers. High-Quality Production: They focus on larger-budget projects, delivering impactful, polished videos. Cohesive Narrative: The agency guarantees a consistent message throughout the project lifecycle, from ideation to post-production. Notable Collaborations: Their portfolio showcases successful partnerships with recognized brands, reflecting their ability to deliver resonant narratives. With Vidico, your brand’s story can truly shine. Comprehensive Project Lifecycle In video production, managing the entire project lifecycle is crucial for achieving effective results, and that’s where Vidico thrives. They excel in guiding you through each phase, from ideation to post-production, ensuring a smooth experience. Their focus on collaborative communication helps align your brand messaging with project goals, especially when creating a mini website product demo video or figuring out how to make a promo video. Project Phase Key Activities Pre-Production Concept Development, Scripting Production Filming, Directing Post-Production Editing, Final Delivery As a reliable promo video creator, Vidico tailors solutions to meet your specific needs, enhancing your overall marketing effectiveness. High-Budget Commercial Production High-budget commercial production often requires a strategic approach to guarantee that the final product not only meets but surpasses client expectations. Vidico, an Australian-based video production company, specializes in this area. They provide thorough support throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring a seamless experience. Here’s what you can expect when engaging with Vidico: Ideation: Collaborating on creative concepts that align with your brand. Production: Utilizing high-quality equipment and skilled professionals to capture your vision. Post-Production: Adding finishing touches through editing, sound design, and visual effects. Brand Storytelling: Crafting narratives that effectively communicate your brand’s message. With their expertise in both live-action and animation, Vidico is well-equipped to handle larger-budget video marketing projects, making them a solid choice for impactful advertising campaigns. Yum Yum Videos Yum Yum Videos stands out as a versatile video production agency that expertly blends custom animation with live-action filming. Specializing in creating engaging explainer videos, they attract Kickstarter backers and investors effectively. The agency manages projects from concept to post-production, providing a thorough experience for clients uncertain about their direction. They offer various video styles, including tutorials and social media content, which cater to diverse marketing needs. Focusing on storytelling, Yum Yum Videos helps clients communicate their messages clearly as they enhance viewer engagement through visually appealing content. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality videos, they’ve become an ideal choice for businesses looking to boost their video marketing efforts and achieve tangible results in their campaigns. Vidsy Vidsy connects brands with a diverse array of content creators to produce product-focused videos customized for platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok. This agency’s approach guarantees effective collaboration and communication, streamlining the video production process. Here’s what you can expect: Creator Variety: Multiple options for each creative brief offer different perspectives. Platform Optimization: Content is adapted with app-specific editing features and caption styles to boost engagement. Strategic Focus: Vidsy emphasizes long-term marketing strategies to improve brand visibility. Improved Reach: The collaboration nurtures engaging content that resonates with target audiences, maximizing reach on social media. With Vidsy, you’ll see your brand’s message delivered effectively, maximizing impact across your chosen platforms. 90 Seconds When you’re choosing a video creator, comprehension of the contractor marketplace selection process is key. You can request custom project quotes to guarantee the video aligns perfectly with your needs, allowing for personalized solutions. Furthermore, exploring various video packages available can help you find the right fit for your project, making sure you get quality work efficiently. Contractor Marketplace Selection Process Selecting the right contractor marketplace for your video production needs is crucial, as it directly influences the quality and efficiency of your project. Here are key factors to evaluate: Vetted Contractors: Choose a platform like 90 Seconds that features vetted contractors based on project type and location. User Experience: Evaluate the ease of navigation; a streamlined process improves project management and contractor communication. Track Record: Look for marketplaces with a successful history of completing projects similar to yours, ensuring they can deliver quality results. Pricing Flexibility: Assess whether the marketplace offers predefined packages or allows for customized arrangements based on your project scope. Custom Project Quotes Available Custom project quotes are an essential feature offered by many leading product video creators, such as 90 Seconds and Yum Yum Videos. These quotes are customized to meet your specific video needs, allowing you to align your budget with the desired production quality. For companies with unique requirements, custom quotes guarantee that the scope of work, timelines, and pricing are clearly defined before production begins. Agencies like Antimatter and Hurricane provide detailed estimates that consider various factors, including video length and complexity. This approach improves transparency and builds trust. Video Packages Overview Video packages play a crucial role in helping businesses effectively communicate their messages through engaging visuals. When choosing a video package, consider the following key aspects: Length Options: Packages typically range from 15 to 60 seconds for social media ads, or 2 to 5 minutes for detailed demonstrations. Customization: Many production companies offer personalized packages to meet your specific marketing needs, allowing you to select style and length. Cost: Shorter videos typically cost between $2,000 to $4,000, whereas longer formats range from $4,000 to $6,000. Delivery Timeline: Expect delivery in 2 to 8 weeks, with some companies providing expedited options of 2-3 weeks, along with revision opportunities to refine your final product. Awakened Films Awakened Films stands out as a leader in cinema-quality video production, specializing in corporate videos, live events, and educational content that improves brand storytelling. They utilize a six-step approach in their production process: listening, proposing, preparing, producing, editing, and delivering. This method guarantees thorough project management, allowing for seamless communication and collaboration with clients. Awakened Films delivers videos in various resolutions and formats, including 4K, 6K, and 8K, catering to diverse client needs and broadcast requirements. Their expertise in translating complex ideas into high-quality visuals and compelling narratives boosts your marketing strategy. Video Supply As a prominent video marketing agency, Video Supply has carved out a niche by producing over 7,000 videos that have garnered more than 50 million views across multiple platforms. They specialize in generating leads and sales for online brands by creating custom video content customized to specific project types, social media channels, industries, and locations. Their services include: YouTube marketing Script writing User-generated content Short-form videos, brand videos, and animations Video Supply emphasizes customization and flexibility, ensuring that videos align with your marketing goals and brand messaging. With a strong track record, they’re well-equipped to improve your product marketing through engaging and effective video content, making them a valuable partner for your video marketing needs. Superside Superside stands out as a versatile creative subscription service that utilizes the strength of AI to improve video marketing campaigns for a wide array of clients, including over 450 leading brands. It offers extensive video production services, covering everything from strategy development to post-production. This guarantees that your marketing efforts are cohesive and effective. Recognized for producing high-quality brand marketing videos, product videos, and customer testimonials, Superside creates content that resonates with target audiences. Their flexible and scalable model allows businesses to quickly adapt video content to meet changing marketing needs. With a portfolio showcasing impactful video content, Superside boosts brand visibility and engagement across various platforms, making it a valuable partner for your marketing initiatives. Antimatter Antimatter shines in high-end animation and motion design, crafting videos that both engage and inform. Their expertise in storytelling, particularly for social media, allows brands to connect with their audiences through customized marketing strategies. With a focus on quality and attention to detail, Antimatter transforms complex ideas into accessible narratives, enhancing overall brand messaging. Animation Expertise and Quality Regarding animation expertise, few studios match the high-end capabilities of Antimatter. They specialize in creating visually striking narratives that not just capture attention but also improve comprehension and engagement. Here are some key aspects of their approach: Diverse Techniques: Antimatter employs various animation techniques customized to client needs. Social Media Optimization: Their animations are crafted to maximize reach across different platforms. Attention to Detail: Each project reflects careful attention, meeting the highest industry standards. Collaborative Process: The studio works closely with clients to guarantee their brand messages are effectively communicated. With this combination of expertise and quality, Antimatter boosts marketing strategies through superb animation that resonates with audiences. Compelling Storytelling Techniques How can a well-crafted narrative transform your product video? A compelling story can clarify your brand’s value proposition and engage viewers more effectively. Antimatter specializes in high-end animations and motion design that elucidate complex ideas, making them easier for audiences to grasp. By evoking emotions through striking visuals, their videos capture attention and cultivate deeper connections with your messaging. This approach guarantees that your content resonates across various platforms, maximizing audience reach. Furthermore, their expertise in narrative structure helps you communicate your message clearly and memorably. In a crowded digital environment, effective storytelling techniques can greatly improve viewer engagement and retention, making your product video not just informative but also impactful in driving consumer interest. Tailored Marketing Strategies What makes personalized marketing strategies essential for effective product promotion? Customized strategies guarantee your content resonates with specific audiences, enhancing engagement and conversion rates. Here are four key reasons to reflect on: Audience Targeting: Customized strategies allow you to focus on demographics, interests, and behaviors, maximizing relevance. Enhanced Storytelling: With Antimatter’s animation expertise, complex ideas become accessible, making your message clear and impactful. Platform Optimization: Personalized strategies optimize videos for various social media platforms, increasing visibility and reach. Comprehensive Solutions: Antimatter’s services in video editing and marketing mix provide a holistic approach, guaranteeing all elements of your campaign align cohesively. Hurricane When seeking a reliable partner for video marketing, Hurricane stands out owing to its extensive experience and diverse service offerings. With 16 years in the industry, Hurricane specializes in strategic and creative video production, ensuring your brand message is compelling. They provide a variety of services, including 360-degree video, animation, live streaming, and corporate video production, catering to unique client needs. Their focus on creating viral and time-lapse videos improves brand visibility and audience engagement. Frequently Asked Questions How to Make High-Quality Product Videos? To make high-quality product videos, start by investing in professional video production services for superior visuals and sound. Use storytelling techniques to create an emotional connection, making your product relatable. Clearly demonstrate features and benefits to provide a thorough comprehension of its value. Tailor your videos for different platforms, optimizing length and format. Finally, include strong calls-to-action, guiding viewers on next steps like visiting your website or making a purchase. How to Create an Effective Marketing Video? To create an effective marketing video, start by defining your primary objective, whether it’s to boost sales or increase brand awareness. Use storytelling techniques to connect with your audience, highlighting your product’s benefits clearly. Guarantee high production quality with sharp visuals and clear audio to maintain credibility. Conclude with a strong call-to-action, directing viewers on what to do next. Finally, optimize the video for each platform to maximize reach and engagement. What’s the Most Effective Way to Highlight a Product in a Promotional Video? To highlight a product effectively in a promotional video, start by showcasing its key features and functionalities through clear demonstrations. Use storytelling to connect with your audience, making the product relatable. Focus on high production quality, ensuring visuals and audio capture attention. Keep the video concise to maintain interest, and include a strong call-to-action at the end, guiding viewers on the next steps, whether that’s visiting your website or making a purchase. Which Platform Is Best for Video Marketing? When considering which platform is best for video marketing, think about your target audience and content type. YouTube thrives for long-form content and tutorials. Furthermore, TikTok and Instagram Reels dominate short, engaging videos. Each platform offers unique features that cater to different demographics, so tailor your strategy accordingly. Moreover, optimizing videos for each platform can maximize reach and engagement, ensuring your content resonates with viewers effectively across various channels. Conclusion In conclusion, utilizing the expertise of top product video creators can greatly improve your marketing strategy. Companies like Moonb, Vidico, and Yum Yum Videos provide customized services that boost brand visibility and communication. By collaborating with these professionals, you can leverage high-quality production and compelling storytelling to engage your audience effectively. Selecting the right creator for your project needs can lead to increased customer engagement and finally drive sales, making it a valuable investment for your brand. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Best Product Video Creators to Enhance Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In the realm of marketing, product videos play an essential role in capturing attention and conveying messages effectively. The “10 Best Product Video Creators” offer diverse services customized to meet various needs, from high-quality production to compelling storytelling. These creators, including Moonb and Vidico, employ innovative techniques to improve brand visibility and drive customer engagement. Comprehending their unique strengths can help you choose the right creator for your marketing strategy, leading to impactful results. Key Takeaways Moonb offers subscription-based corporate video services with project management tools, ensuring smooth communication and flexible contract-free production. 90 Seconds features a marketplace for vetted video creators, providing custom quotes to align production with specific project needs and budgets. Awakened Films specializes in high-quality corporate videos and live events, utilizing a structured production process for seamless project management. Vidico excels in brand storytelling, managing projects from ideation to post-production, delivering emotionally resonant narratives for larger-budget initiatives. Video Supply focuses on video marketing that generates leads and sales, with a strong track record of creating engaging content for online brands. Moonb When you’re looking for a reliable partner in video marketing, Moonb stands out as a compelling option. This agency specializes in corporate video services and offers a flexible subscription-based model, making it easy for you to access their expertise as a marketing video maker. With a focus on collaboration, Moonb integrates project management tools like Trello and Slack, ensuring smooth communication throughout the process. They provide weekly strategy calls to align on production goals, enhancing your engagement. As a product video creator, Moonb adopts a contract-free approach, allowing you to use their full-service production without long-term commitments. If you’re unsure, take advantage of their 3-day free trial, which lets you experience their promotional video maker capabilities firsthand. Vidico When you’re looking for a video creator that thrives in brand storytelling, Vidico stands out as a top choice. Based in Australia, they manage the entire project lifecycle, making it easy for you to navigate high-budget commercial productions from start to finish. With their expertise in live-action and animation, Vidico delivers high-quality videos that effectively communicate your brand’s message. Brand Storytelling Expertise Vidico thrives in the domain of brand storytelling, skillfully transforming a company’s services and values into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. They excel in creating marketing videos, including website product demo videos and promotional videos, guaranteeing your brand stands out. Here are four key aspects of their storytelling expertise: Emotional Connection: Vidico emphasizes storytelling techniques to forge deep connections with viewers. High-Quality Production: They focus on larger-budget projects, delivering impactful, polished videos. Cohesive Narrative: The agency guarantees a consistent message throughout the project lifecycle, from ideation to post-production. Notable Collaborations: Their portfolio showcases successful partnerships with recognized brands, reflecting their ability to deliver resonant narratives. With Vidico, your brand’s story can truly shine. Comprehensive Project Lifecycle In video production, managing the entire project lifecycle is crucial for achieving effective results, and that’s where Vidico thrives. They excel in guiding you through each phase, from ideation to post-production, ensuring a smooth experience. Their focus on collaborative communication helps align your brand messaging with project goals, especially when creating a mini website product demo video or figuring out how to make a promo video. Project Phase Key Activities Pre-Production Concept Development, Scripting Production Filming, Directing Post-Production Editing, Final Delivery As a reliable promo video creator, Vidico tailors solutions to meet your specific needs, enhancing your overall marketing effectiveness. High-Budget Commercial Production High-budget commercial production often requires a strategic approach to guarantee that the final product not only meets but surpasses client expectations. Vidico, an Australian-based video production company, specializes in this area. They provide thorough support throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring a seamless experience. Here’s what you can expect when engaging with Vidico: Ideation: Collaborating on creative concepts that align with your brand. Production: Utilizing high-quality equipment and skilled professionals to capture your vision. Post-Production: Adding finishing touches through editing, sound design, and visual effects. Brand Storytelling: Crafting narratives that effectively communicate your brand’s message. With their expertise in both live-action and animation, Vidico is well-equipped to handle larger-budget video marketing projects, making them a solid choice for impactful advertising campaigns. Yum Yum Videos Yum Yum Videos stands out as a versatile video production agency that expertly blends custom animation with live-action filming. Specializing in creating engaging explainer videos, they attract Kickstarter backers and investors effectively. The agency manages projects from concept to post-production, providing a thorough experience for clients uncertain about their direction. They offer various video styles, including tutorials and social media content, which cater to diverse marketing needs. Focusing on storytelling, Yum Yum Videos helps clients communicate their messages clearly as they enhance viewer engagement through visually appealing content. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality videos, they’ve become an ideal choice for businesses looking to boost their video marketing efforts and achieve tangible results in their campaigns. Vidsy Vidsy connects brands with a diverse array of content creators to produce product-focused videos customized for platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok. This agency’s approach guarantees effective collaboration and communication, streamlining the video production process. Here’s what you can expect: Creator Variety: Multiple options for each creative brief offer different perspectives. Platform Optimization: Content is adapted with app-specific editing features and caption styles to boost engagement. Strategic Focus: Vidsy emphasizes long-term marketing strategies to improve brand visibility. Improved Reach: The collaboration nurtures engaging content that resonates with target audiences, maximizing reach on social media. With Vidsy, you’ll see your brand’s message delivered effectively, maximizing impact across your chosen platforms. 90 Seconds When you’re choosing a video creator, comprehension of the contractor marketplace selection process is key. You can request custom project quotes to guarantee the video aligns perfectly with your needs, allowing for personalized solutions. Furthermore, exploring various video packages available can help you find the right fit for your project, making sure you get quality work efficiently. Contractor Marketplace Selection Process Selecting the right contractor marketplace for your video production needs is crucial, as it directly influences the quality and efficiency of your project. Here are key factors to evaluate: Vetted Contractors: Choose a platform like 90 Seconds that features vetted contractors based on project type and location. User Experience: Evaluate the ease of navigation; a streamlined process improves project management and contractor communication. Track Record: Look for marketplaces with a successful history of completing projects similar to yours, ensuring they can deliver quality results. Pricing Flexibility: Assess whether the marketplace offers predefined packages or allows for customized arrangements based on your project scope. Custom Project Quotes Available Custom project quotes are an essential feature offered by many leading product video creators, such as 90 Seconds and Yum Yum Videos. These quotes are customized to meet your specific video needs, allowing you to align your budget with the desired production quality. For companies with unique requirements, custom quotes guarantee that the scope of work, timelines, and pricing are clearly defined before production begins. Agencies like Antimatter and Hurricane provide detailed estimates that consider various factors, including video length and complexity. This approach improves transparency and builds trust. Video Packages Overview Video packages play a crucial role in helping businesses effectively communicate their messages through engaging visuals. When choosing a video package, consider the following key aspects: Length Options: Packages typically range from 15 to 60 seconds for social media ads, or 2 to 5 minutes for detailed demonstrations. Customization: Many production companies offer personalized packages to meet your specific marketing needs, allowing you to select style and length. Cost: Shorter videos typically cost between $2,000 to $4,000, whereas longer formats range from $4,000 to $6,000. Delivery Timeline: Expect delivery in 2 to 8 weeks, with some companies providing expedited options of 2-3 weeks, along with revision opportunities to refine your final product. Awakened Films Awakened Films stands out as a leader in cinema-quality video production, specializing in corporate videos, live events, and educational content that improves brand storytelling. They utilize a six-step approach in their production process: listening, proposing, preparing, producing, editing, and delivering. This method guarantees thorough project management, allowing for seamless communication and collaboration with clients. Awakened Films delivers videos in various resolutions and formats, including 4K, 6K, and 8K, catering to diverse client needs and broadcast requirements. Their expertise in translating complex ideas into high-quality visuals and compelling narratives boosts your marketing strategy. Video Supply As a prominent video marketing agency, Video Supply has carved out a niche by producing over 7,000 videos that have garnered more than 50 million views across multiple platforms. They specialize in generating leads and sales for online brands by creating custom video content customized to specific project types, social media channels, industries, and locations. Their services include: YouTube marketing Script writing User-generated content Short-form videos, brand videos, and animations Video Supply emphasizes customization and flexibility, ensuring that videos align with your marketing goals and brand messaging. With a strong track record, they’re well-equipped to improve your product marketing through engaging and effective video content, making them a valuable partner for your video marketing needs. Superside Superside stands out as a versatile creative subscription service that utilizes the strength of AI to improve video marketing campaigns for a wide array of clients, including over 450 leading brands. It offers extensive video production services, covering everything from strategy development to post-production. This guarantees that your marketing efforts are cohesive and effective. Recognized for producing high-quality brand marketing videos, product videos, and customer testimonials, Superside creates content that resonates with target audiences. Their flexible and scalable model allows businesses to quickly adapt video content to meet changing marketing needs. With a portfolio showcasing impactful video content, Superside boosts brand visibility and engagement across various platforms, making it a valuable partner for your marketing initiatives. Antimatter Antimatter shines in high-end animation and motion design, crafting videos that both engage and inform. Their expertise in storytelling, particularly for social media, allows brands to connect with their audiences through customized marketing strategies. With a focus on quality and attention to detail, Antimatter transforms complex ideas into accessible narratives, enhancing overall brand messaging. Animation Expertise and Quality Regarding animation expertise, few studios match the high-end capabilities of Antimatter. They specialize in creating visually striking narratives that not just capture attention but also improve comprehension and engagement. Here are some key aspects of their approach: Diverse Techniques: Antimatter employs various animation techniques customized to client needs. Social Media Optimization: Their animations are crafted to maximize reach across different platforms. Attention to Detail: Each project reflects careful attention, meeting the highest industry standards. Collaborative Process: The studio works closely with clients to guarantee their brand messages are effectively communicated. With this combination of expertise and quality, Antimatter boosts marketing strategies through superb animation that resonates with audiences. Compelling Storytelling Techniques How can a well-crafted narrative transform your product video? A compelling story can clarify your brand’s value proposition and engage viewers more effectively. Antimatter specializes in high-end animations and motion design that elucidate complex ideas, making them easier for audiences to grasp. By evoking emotions through striking visuals, their videos capture attention and cultivate deeper connections with your messaging. This approach guarantees that your content resonates across various platforms, maximizing audience reach. Furthermore, their expertise in narrative structure helps you communicate your message clearly and memorably. In a crowded digital environment, effective storytelling techniques can greatly improve viewer engagement and retention, making your product video not just informative but also impactful in driving consumer interest. Tailored Marketing Strategies What makes personalized marketing strategies essential for effective product promotion? Customized strategies guarantee your content resonates with specific audiences, enhancing engagement and conversion rates. Here are four key reasons to reflect on: Audience Targeting: Customized strategies allow you to focus on demographics, interests, and behaviors, maximizing relevance. Enhanced Storytelling: With Antimatter’s animation expertise, complex ideas become accessible, making your message clear and impactful. Platform Optimization: Personalized strategies optimize videos for various social media platforms, increasing visibility and reach. Comprehensive Solutions: Antimatter’s services in video editing and marketing mix provide a holistic approach, guaranteeing all elements of your campaign align cohesively. Hurricane When seeking a reliable partner for video marketing, Hurricane stands out owing to its extensive experience and diverse service offerings. With 16 years in the industry, Hurricane specializes in strategic and creative video production, ensuring your brand message is compelling. They provide a variety of services, including 360-degree video, animation, live streaming, and corporate video production, catering to unique client needs. Their focus on creating viral and time-lapse videos improves brand visibility and audience engagement. Frequently Asked Questions How to Make High-Quality Product Videos? To make high-quality product videos, start by investing in professional video production services for superior visuals and sound. Use storytelling techniques to create an emotional connection, making your product relatable. Clearly demonstrate features and benefits to provide a thorough comprehension of its value. Tailor your videos for different platforms, optimizing length and format. Finally, include strong calls-to-action, guiding viewers on next steps like visiting your website or making a purchase. How to Create an Effective Marketing Video? To create an effective marketing video, start by defining your primary objective, whether it’s to boost sales or increase brand awareness. Use storytelling techniques to connect with your audience, highlighting your product’s benefits clearly. Guarantee high production quality with sharp visuals and clear audio to maintain credibility. Conclude with a strong call-to-action, directing viewers on what to do next. Finally, optimize the video for each platform to maximize reach and engagement. What’s the Most Effective Way to Highlight a Product in a Promotional Video? To highlight a product effectively in a promotional video, start by showcasing its key features and functionalities through clear demonstrations. Use storytelling to connect with your audience, making the product relatable. Focus on high production quality, ensuring visuals and audio capture attention. Keep the video concise to maintain interest, and include a strong call-to-action at the end, guiding viewers on the next steps, whether that’s visiting your website or making a purchase. Which Platform Is Best for Video Marketing? When considering which platform is best for video marketing, think about your target audience and content type. YouTube thrives for long-form content and tutorials. Furthermore, TikTok and Instagram Reels dominate short, engaging videos. Each platform offers unique features that cater to different demographics, so tailor your strategy accordingly. Moreover, optimizing videos for each platform can maximize reach and engagement, ensuring your content resonates with viewers effectively across various channels. Conclusion In conclusion, utilizing the expertise of top product video creators can greatly improve your marketing strategy. Companies like Moonb, Vidico, and Yum Yum Videos provide customized services that boost brand visibility and communication. By collaborating with these professionals, you can leverage high-quality production and compelling storytelling to engage your audience effectively. Selecting the right creator for your project needs can lead to increased customer engagement and finally drive sales, making it a valuable investment for your brand. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Best Product Video Creators to Enhance Marketing" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

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AI can knock out an impressive amount of tedious, everyday busywork. It can take on creative tasks, too. But the fundamental question remains: should it? As AI use within organizations reaches new heights, companies are also recognizing its limitations—and, in some cases, pulling back. Consider Duolingo, the language-learning company that announced it would gradually eliminate freelance writers and translators, replacing them with AI-generated content. After public backlash and user reports that the AI-produced lessons felt formulaic and lacked cultural nuance, Duolingo clarified its position. “I do not see AI as replacing what our employees do . . . I see it as a tool to accelerate what we do, at the same or better level of quality,” wrote CEO Luis von Ahn. The takeaway: blindly delegating to AI, simply because it can execute a task, can be just as risky as resisting it outright. As the CEO of an automation-first company, I’ve discovered that employees must develop their judgment, learning when AI can accelerate progress and when human insight must lead. Here’s how leaders can help cultivate that judgment within their teams. Keep accountability human, even when AI helps If cumulative wisdom has revealed anything so far, it’s that AI use goes awry when it takes place in the shadows. Employees can end up delegating too much to AI, including tasks that still require human input, like creativity, empathy, and subjective, unquantifiable judgment calls. That’s why every company today needs an explicit AI policy that’s transparent and accessible for all employees. A filed-away tome of instructions just won’t cut it. Some leaders outline their company policy in an executive memo. For example, Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke used a concise internal memo to sum up the company’s AI-first approach: “Before asking for more headcount and resources, teams must demonstrate why they cannot get what they want done using AI.” At Jotform, we complement periodic memos with chats and presentations during our weekly all-hands meetings. Together with our managers, we review AI updates, approved tools, and examples of how to use AI properly—sharing occasional mishaps as well. Whether it’s in a meeting, a memo, or a virtual discussion board, leaders must define clear boundaries for where AI informs decisions versus where humans decide. Combine policy with real-world trial & error Creating formal and informal AI policies is only half the equation. The other half is seeing how those policies actually play out in practice. Leaders are tasked with training teams to continually assess AI’s strengths and limitations within a company’s real workflows. When weaknesses emerge, it’s time to rethink the approach. For example, many organizations have used AI to make hiring more efficient. At first glance, the results were promising: companies could interview more candidates and identify top talent faster. But hiring teams also ran into challenges, including built-in biases and the unintended exclusion of highly qualified candidates due to rigid screening criteria. As a result, companies have had to recalibrate their AI use and assign more responsibility to employees. Across all business areas, evaluating AI’s strengths and weaknesses should be an ongoing dialogue between employees and managers. Employees should be encouraged to experiment with new tools and share their experiences. Leaders should schedule regular check-ins to ensure that inappropriate or ineffective use doesn’t go unchecked. Make AI assessment a continuous conversation When teams integrate AI tools into their workflows, one of the risks is that responsibility becomes diffused. Accountability falls through the cracks. For instance, if an AI-powered chatbot provides a customer with outdated information, who is to blame? Or more importantly, who’s tasked with ensuring that it doesn’t happen again? It’s not always obvious. And blaming the AI does nothing but prevent any course-correction. Deliberate and shared accountability, on the other hand, prevents teams from entirely outsourcing ownership along with tasks. At Jotform, each team designates a human “owner” for AI-assisted outputs. While that person is responsible for making sure a task is executed properly, the entire team remains engaged in reviewing and refining the output. Another possible safeguard is to add an AI review step in project checklists, requiring verification of facts and sources. If it’s a particularly high-stakes task or project, two human checkers isn’t a bad idea. Shared accountability helps to ensure that outcomes remain a team responsibility, not AI’s. In the words of Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, people should not blindly trust AI. AI is a tool to augment human judgment, not a substitute for it, and teams must stay vigilant and accountable for the decisions AI helps produce. View the full article

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. We have one bathroom key for 18 women My workplace is moving offices next week, and our bathroom situation is changing dramatically. We’re going from five unlocked unisex bathrooms to two gendered restrooms of two cubicles each, shared with other tenants of the floor. Those bathrooms will be locked, and for our entire 25 person staff, there is one key for each gender. (I am given to understand the matter of additional keys would cost management extra, and they are … skinflints.) The trouble comes in a couple factors. One, my office is predominantly female, so we’re going to have a lot more demand for our key than the gentlemen. Two, some of my coworkers take, frankly, for-e-ver, which is fine, I don’t know what’s going on and that’s their business, but … three, there are times when my bathroom needs can be sudden and urgent. I don’t want to have to hope the key is up front if I suddenly need it, and then suffer if it’s not. We had a town hall about the move yesterday and I expressed my concerns in a non-specific way, and they were brushed off. Other women on the staff feel the same way, and we’re looking for a way forward. What are our options here? Being female doesn’t necessarily qualify under something like ADA, I can’t just “forget” the key in my bag one day and take it to Home Depot and use the key machine (not that I ever would, of course) because there’s only one copy, and at this point the only thing I can think of is getting an accommodation letter from my doctor to force management’s hand, but that only helps me, and not the other 17 women on staff. This is a terrible set-up! One key for 18 people? Bathroom needs aren’t by appointment; they happen when they happen, and all kinds of problems could result from someone needing the key when it’s not available (not to mention that at some point someone is going to lose the lone key, and then what?). It’s absurd that they’re not getting at least as many keys as there are stalls, plus a backup. (Or better yet, if the bathrooms need to be locked, why not lock them with a keypad and give you all the code? They might not have control over that since it sounds like they’re renting space in multi-tenant building, but they can absolutely pay for more keys.) Meanwhile, though, you and your other concerned coworkers should push back as a group. The framing to use is a pretty flat and insistent, “This won’t work for us.” Point out that with two stalls for women, two women are supposed to be able to use the bathrooms at once, and the keys need to reflect that. 2. My coworker makes bigoted remarks about his own religion I am very happy with my company’s culture and compensation, but I have a concern regarding a coworker. One of my colleagues frequently makes stereotypical remarks about his own culture/religion as a form of self-deprecation. Because our workplace is not very diverse and many of my younger coworkers are not worldly, they have begun to repeat these bigoted comments back to him or even initiate them themselves. While our supervisor is often occupied with meetings and likely hasn’t witnessed this, I am concerned that the behavior is creating a hostile environment. I also worry about customers overhearing these remarks. How do I effectively complain about discriminatory comments when they are being initiated or encouraged by an employee from the culture/religion being insulted, especially to a supervisor who may not recognize the behavior as problematic? There’s no “except if you’re from the group you’re using a slur about” exception in the laws about discrimination and harassment at work; people can’t say bigoted things at work even if they’re talking about their own race, religion, ethnicity, etc. In fact, a court case on exactly this last year found that using racial or religious slurs is not protected activity, and employers can enforce rules against discriminatory language regardless so whether or not the speaker belongs to the group they’re speaking pejoratively of (as long as they enforce those rules consistently). If you want to ask for it to be addressed, I’d frame it as, “I don’t think it’s okay for anyone to use this language at work, and they don’t know who around them might also belong to the same group.” You should also mention that other coworkers are now starting to use the same language themselves, which is additionally not okay. 3. My coworker asks questions that I answered in the email he is replying to When I have discussions with a specific coworker, he will typically ask a follow-up question that was answered in the previous email. I am increasingly frustrated because I feel like he isn’t actually reading the email and is only skimming it. We are swamped with work, and I am losing patience but I don’t want to be rude. I simply want him to put in the effort prior to asking a question. “That’s addressed in my email below — take a look there and that should answer it, but let me know if there’s a different aspect you’re wondering about.” If he keeps doing it after you’ve replied that way a few times, you can just start copying and pasting the piece of the earlier email with a line saying, “Answered below, copying it here.” (If this coworker is your boss, you need to soften that a little but could still say, “I answered that below so I’m copying it up here for your convenience.”) 4. Can I ask for a retroactive raise when a temporary role becomes permanent? On the surface this is probably an easy yes/no question, but as someone who only a few years ago negotiated my salary for the first time ever (thanks to your advice and potential scripts I got $5,000 more!) at age 45, thinking about it has me riddled with anxiety. When offered a permanent role for something you’ve been doing on a temporary basis for several months, can you ask to have the pay be retroactive to your start date in the temporary role? Not generally. You agreed to a rate of pay for the job for that time period, and now you’re negotiating a different one going forward. It’s also possible that they didn’t give you the same level of responsibilities or accountability in the temporary role as they’re going to be giving you in the permanent one (when they figured that you might not be doing the work for longer than a few months). 5. A report from someone interviewing Gen Z candidates I’ll preface this by saying: I’m not always 100% perfect at never complaining about “the youths” of today and their really tall socks, and I hear a lot from random colleagues about how terrible working with Gen Z is. I haven’t had much professional interaction with interns or juniors in the last few years myself. I put up a posting to take interns for the summer, and I did interviews over the last two weeks. I have been 10/10 impressed. Everyone who applied was in their early to mid-20s. I gave a choice of Zoom or in-person; every single one chose an in-person interview (I was fine with either, but I thought it was nice that they wanted to come in). My office is on the 22nd floor of a huge building with many elevators (I warned them and provided instructions, but people often still get lost); every single one showed up in the right place, and on time (NOT 30 minutes early, which I hate, and not late). Everyone wore something reasonable. They all had great questions for me ready to go. One of them got a (better) job at a bigger firm and wrote a thoughtful message withdrawing and thanking me for the interview. This has not always been my experience since I started hiring interns ~10 years ago. The only bad part is that I have to pick someone now and say no to the rest! The post we have one bathroom key for 18 women, coworker makes bigoted remarks about his own religion, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

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If you’re in the market for a refrigerator, you’ll want to take advantage of the latest Home Depot promo codes. These discounts can help you save considerably on your purchase. You can get a 10% discount just for using a code, plus additional savings if you’re a military member or a newsletter subscriber. Comprehending how to apply these codes effectively can lead to substantial savings. Stay tuned to learn more about each promo code and how to maximize your benefits. Key Takeaways Use promo codes for 10% off refrigerator purchases when shopping at Home Depot. Subscribe to the Style and Decor newsletter for an additional 10% off homeware purchases. Active military members can receive a 10% military discount by verifying their status. Take advantage of Black Friday deals for discounts up to 50% on select refrigerator brands. Join the Pro Xtra program for exclusive discounts and rewards on qualifying refrigerator purchases. Get 10% Off With Home Depot Promo Codes If you’re looking to save money on your next refrigerator purchase, Home Depot offers several promo codes that can help you get 10% off. By signing up for the Style and Decor newsletter, you’ll receive a homeware discount code for 10% off furniture and home accents, which may include refrigerators. Active military members, veterans, and their spouses can likewise benefit from a 10% military discount on eligible purchases by verifying their status through SheerID. In addition, subscribing to the Home Depot coupon newsletter grants you an immediate $5 off when you spend $50 or more, which can be applied to your refrigerator purchase. Moreover, promotional codes may provide sitewide discounts of up to 10%, applicable at checkout. You can even stack some promotions with a price match guarantee, ensuring you get the best deal on your Home Depot promo code refrigerator purchase. Shop These Home Depot Black Friday Deals to Save up to 50 Home Depot is rolling out impressive Black Friday deals, offering discounts of up to 50% on select refrigerators, making this the perfect opportunity to upgrade your kitchen appliances. You can find significant savings on major brands like Samsung, GE, LG, and Frigidaire, with some refrigerators marked down by as much as $1,500. If you’re planning to buy multiple appliances, take advantage of the “Buy More, Save More” promotion, which provides even deeper discounts. In addition, for refrigerator purchases over $396, Home Depot offers free delivery, enhancing the value of these deals. Nevertheless, keep in mind that these limited-time Black Friday offers are set to expire on December 3, 2025. So, it’s crucial to act quickly to secure the best savings. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a smart investment in your home during your enjoyment of substantial discounts. Use Top Home Depot Coupons for up to $500 Off Tools, Furniture, and More Taking advantage of top Home Depot coupons can lead to impressive savings of up to $500 on tools, furniture, and a variety of other items during promotional events. By regularly checking the Top Savings for You section, you can find discounts reaching up to 75% off various products. Moreover, the Special Buy of the Day program offers steep price drops for just 24 hours, making it vital to act quickly. Here’s a quick reference table for your savings: Item Category Average Discount Electrical Tools Up to 40% off Lawn Equipment Up to 40% off Furniture Up to $500 off Home Improvement Up to 75% off Pro Xtra Members Average savings of $120 annually Utilizing these coupons can greatly improve your shopping experience and help you save on important items. Get 40% Off With Home Depot Deal of the Day Coupons Seize the opportunity to save up to 40% on select refrigerators with Home Depot’s Deal of the Day coupons. These daily promotions offer significant savings on major appliances, but they change frequently. To make the most of these deals, it’s crucial to check the Home Depot website regularly for the latest offers. Since the Deal of the Day typically lasts for only 24 hours, quick decision-making is key for anyone looking to take advantage of these discounts. You can further improve your savings by combining these deals with other promo codes, maximizing the value of your purchase. Moreover, signing up for Home Depot’s email alerts can provide you with early access to these daily offers and other exclusive promotions on refrigerators. Save 20% With Home Depot Pro Xtra Discounts For those looking to maximize savings on refrigerator purchases, the Home Depot Pro Xtra program offers a valuable opportunity. This program is designed for contractors and remodelers, providing access to exclusive discounts of up to 20% off on qualifying purchases. Here’s what you can expect as a Pro Xtra member: Personalized discounts customized to your purchasing habits Additional savings of 10% on bulk purchases A rewards points system that lets you earn points on purchases Access to special promotions, like the Pro Special Buy of the Week Exclusive deals on select items, including refrigerators Joining the Pro Xtra program can greatly improve your shopping experience, particularly if you’re looking to buy appliances in larger quantities. Take advantage of these discounts to make your refrigerator purchase more affordable as you enjoy the benefits of membership. Get 10% Off With the Home Depot Military Discount If you’re an active service member, veteran, or spouse, you can benefit from Home Depot’s 10% military discount, which provides significant savings on eligible purchases, including refrigerators. To access this discount, you’ll need to register and verify your military status through SheerID. Once verified, you can apply the discount both in-store and online, making it convenient for all your home improvement needs. Here’s a quick overview of the military discount: Feature Details Notes Eligibility Active service members, veterans, and spouses Must verify via SheerID Discount Amount 10% off eligible purchases Maximum limit of $400 annually Redemption Method Virtual ID or phone number Available in-store and online Just remember to check for any exclusions on appliances like Whirlpool before making a purchase. This discount can make a real difference in your home improvement budget. How to Use a Home Depot Promo Code Home Depot offers various ways to save on your purchases, including the use of promo codes that can provide additional discounts on items like refrigerators. To effectively use a Home Depot promo code, follow these steps: Add eligible items to your cart. Proceed to the checkout page. Locate the “Enter Promo Code” or “Apply Coupon” box. Verify the promo code is valid and meets minimum purchase requirements. Enter the code exactly as provided, as most are case-sensitive. After entering the code, click “Apply” to see the discount reflected in your order total. Keep in mind that some promo codes may not be combined with other offers. Always check the terms and conditions associated with each code to maximize your savings. With these steps, you can easily utilize promo codes to reduce the cost of your new refrigerator. Frequently Asked Questions How to Get Home Depot Promo Codes? To get Home Depot promo codes, start by signing up for their email newsletter, which gives you an immediate $5 off coupon. You can likewise register for the Style and Decor newsletter for a 10% discount on select items. Joining the Pro Xtra loyalty program offers exclusive discounts on bulk purchases. Furthermore, check the Special Buy of the Day section for flash deals and follow their social media for time-sensitive offers. How to Get 10% off a Home Depot Coupon? To get a 10% off Home Depot coupon, sign up for their email newsletter. You’ll receive exclusive offers, including discounts on select items. Furthermore, register for the Style and Decor newsletter for another 10% off home accents and furniture. If you’re an active military member, veteran, or spouse, verify your status for a similar discount. During promotional events like Black Friday, combine these coupons with ongoing sales for even greater savings. How Do I Get a Pro Discount at Home Depot? To get a Pro discount at Home Depot, you’ll need to enroll in the Pro Xtra loyalty program. It’s free and grants you access to volume pricing discounts of 5-15% on eligible items. As a member, you can additionally receive personalized offers, rewards points for purchases, and access to exclusive deals like the Pro Special Buy of the Week. Be prepared to provide documentation of your business or contractor status during registration. Does Home Depot Have a Senior Discount Code? Home Depot doesn’t offer a specific senior discount code. Nonetheless, seniors can still take advantage of general promotions and sales available to all customers. Although there’s a military discount of 10% for eligible individuals, it doesn’t apply to seniors. To maximize savings, consider signing up for the Home Depot newsletter for exclusive offers, or join the Pro Xtra loyalty program for personalized discounts and bulk purchase benefits. Conclusion In summary, leveraging Home Depot’s promo codes can considerably reduce your refrigerator purchase costs. With opportunities for 10% off through various channels, military discounts, and Deal of the Day savings, you can maximize your budget. Furthermore, consider signing up for newsletters to access further discounts. By staying informed and utilizing these offers, you can make a smart investment in your home appliance needs as you enjoy substantial savings at Home Depot. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Must-Have Home Depot Promo Codes for Refrigerators" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re in the market for a refrigerator, you’ll want to take advantage of the latest Home Depot promo codes. These discounts can help you save considerably on your purchase. You can get a 10% discount just for using a code, plus additional savings if you’re a military member or a newsletter subscriber. Comprehending how to apply these codes effectively can lead to substantial savings. Stay tuned to learn more about each promo code and how to maximize your benefits. Key Takeaways Use promo codes for 10% off refrigerator purchases when shopping at Home Depot. Subscribe to the Style and Decor newsletter for an additional 10% off homeware purchases. Active military members can receive a 10% military discount by verifying their status. Take advantage of Black Friday deals for discounts up to 50% on select refrigerator brands. Join the Pro Xtra program for exclusive discounts and rewards on qualifying refrigerator purchases. Get 10% Off With Home Depot Promo Codes If you’re looking to save money on your next refrigerator purchase, Home Depot offers several promo codes that can help you get 10% off. By signing up for the Style and Decor newsletter, you’ll receive a homeware discount code for 10% off furniture and home accents, which may include refrigerators. Active military members, veterans, and their spouses can likewise benefit from a 10% military discount on eligible purchases by verifying their status through SheerID. In addition, subscribing to the Home Depot coupon newsletter grants you an immediate $5 off when you spend $50 or more, which can be applied to your refrigerator purchase. Moreover, promotional codes may provide sitewide discounts of up to 10%, applicable at checkout. You can even stack some promotions with a price match guarantee, ensuring you get the best deal on your Home Depot promo code refrigerator purchase. Shop These Home Depot Black Friday Deals to Save up to 50 Home Depot is rolling out impressive Black Friday deals, offering discounts of up to 50% on select refrigerators, making this the perfect opportunity to upgrade your kitchen appliances. You can find significant savings on major brands like Samsung, GE, LG, and Frigidaire, with some refrigerators marked down by as much as $1,500. If you’re planning to buy multiple appliances, take advantage of the “Buy More, Save More” promotion, which provides even deeper discounts. In addition, for refrigerator purchases over $396, Home Depot offers free delivery, enhancing the value of these deals. Nevertheless, keep in mind that these limited-time Black Friday offers are set to expire on December 3, 2025. So, it’s crucial to act quickly to secure the best savings. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a smart investment in your home during your enjoyment of substantial discounts. Use Top Home Depot Coupons for up to $500 Off Tools, Furniture, and More Taking advantage of top Home Depot coupons can lead to impressive savings of up to $500 on tools, furniture, and a variety of other items during promotional events. By regularly checking the Top Savings for You section, you can find discounts reaching up to 75% off various products. Moreover, the Special Buy of the Day program offers steep price drops for just 24 hours, making it vital to act quickly. Here’s a quick reference table for your savings: Item Category Average Discount Electrical Tools Up to 40% off Lawn Equipment Up to 40% off Furniture Up to $500 off Home Improvement Up to 75% off Pro Xtra Members Average savings of $120 annually Utilizing these coupons can greatly improve your shopping experience and help you save on important items. Get 40% Off With Home Depot Deal of the Day Coupons Seize the opportunity to save up to 40% on select refrigerators with Home Depot’s Deal of the Day coupons. These daily promotions offer significant savings on major appliances, but they change frequently. To make the most of these deals, it’s crucial to check the Home Depot website regularly for the latest offers. Since the Deal of the Day typically lasts for only 24 hours, quick decision-making is key for anyone looking to take advantage of these discounts. You can further improve your savings by combining these deals with other promo codes, maximizing the value of your purchase. Moreover, signing up for Home Depot’s email alerts can provide you with early access to these daily offers and other exclusive promotions on refrigerators. Save 20% With Home Depot Pro Xtra Discounts For those looking to maximize savings on refrigerator purchases, the Home Depot Pro Xtra program offers a valuable opportunity. This program is designed for contractors and remodelers, providing access to exclusive discounts of up to 20% off on qualifying purchases. Here’s what you can expect as a Pro Xtra member: Personalized discounts customized to your purchasing habits Additional savings of 10% on bulk purchases A rewards points system that lets you earn points on purchases Access to special promotions, like the Pro Special Buy of the Week Exclusive deals on select items, including refrigerators Joining the Pro Xtra program can greatly improve your shopping experience, particularly if you’re looking to buy appliances in larger quantities. Take advantage of these discounts to make your refrigerator purchase more affordable as you enjoy the benefits of membership. Get 10% Off With the Home Depot Military Discount If you’re an active service member, veteran, or spouse, you can benefit from Home Depot’s 10% military discount, which provides significant savings on eligible purchases, including refrigerators. To access this discount, you’ll need to register and verify your military status through SheerID. Once verified, you can apply the discount both in-store and online, making it convenient for all your home improvement needs. Here’s a quick overview of the military discount: Feature Details Notes Eligibility Active service members, veterans, and spouses Must verify via SheerID Discount Amount 10% off eligible purchases Maximum limit of $400 annually Redemption Method Virtual ID or phone number Available in-store and online Just remember to check for any exclusions on appliances like Whirlpool before making a purchase. This discount can make a real difference in your home improvement budget. How to Use a Home Depot Promo Code Home Depot offers various ways to save on your purchases, including the use of promo codes that can provide additional discounts on items like refrigerators. To effectively use a Home Depot promo code, follow these steps: Add eligible items to your cart. Proceed to the checkout page. Locate the “Enter Promo Code” or “Apply Coupon” box. Verify the promo code is valid and meets minimum purchase requirements. Enter the code exactly as provided, as most are case-sensitive. After entering the code, click “Apply” to see the discount reflected in your order total. Keep in mind that some promo codes may not be combined with other offers. Always check the terms and conditions associated with each code to maximize your savings. With these steps, you can easily utilize promo codes to reduce the cost of your new refrigerator. Frequently Asked Questions How to Get Home Depot Promo Codes? To get Home Depot promo codes, start by signing up for their email newsletter, which gives you an immediate $5 off coupon. You can likewise register for the Style and Decor newsletter for a 10% discount on select items. Joining the Pro Xtra loyalty program offers exclusive discounts on bulk purchases. Furthermore, check the Special Buy of the Day section for flash deals and follow their social media for time-sensitive offers. How to Get 10% off a Home Depot Coupon? To get a 10% off Home Depot coupon, sign up for their email newsletter. You’ll receive exclusive offers, including discounts on select items. Furthermore, register for the Style and Decor newsletter for another 10% off home accents and furniture. If you’re an active military member, veteran, or spouse, verify your status for a similar discount. During promotional events like Black Friday, combine these coupons with ongoing sales for even greater savings. How Do I Get a Pro Discount at Home Depot? To get a Pro discount at Home Depot, you’ll need to enroll in the Pro Xtra loyalty program. It’s free and grants you access to volume pricing discounts of 5-15% on eligible items. As a member, you can additionally receive personalized offers, rewards points for purchases, and access to exclusive deals like the Pro Special Buy of the Week. Be prepared to provide documentation of your business or contractor status during registration. Does Home Depot Have a Senior Discount Code? Home Depot doesn’t offer a specific senior discount code. Nonetheless, seniors can still take advantage of general promotions and sales available to all customers. Although there’s a military discount of 10% for eligible individuals, it doesn’t apply to seniors. To maximize savings, consider signing up for the Home Depot newsletter for exclusive offers, or join the Pro Xtra loyalty program for personalized discounts and bulk purchase benefits. Conclusion In summary, leveraging Home Depot’s promo codes can considerably reduce your refrigerator purchase costs. With opportunities for 10% off through various channels, military discounts, and Deal of the Day savings, you can maximize your budget. Furthermore, consider signing up for newsletters to access further discounts. By staying informed and utilizing these offers, you can make a smart investment in your home appliance needs as you enjoy substantial savings at Home Depot. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Must-Have Home Depot Promo Codes for Refrigerators" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article