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The Walt Disney Company’s stock price soared on Wednesday, up by 10% at the time of publishing, as the company surpassed earnings expectations and unveiled its first new theme park development in 15 years. Following Disney’s second quarter earnings report, the entertainment giant announced an agreement to build a new resort and theme park in Yas Island, United Arab Emirates. “As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. While no opening date or project timeline has been released yet, the Abu Dhabi–based experiences company Miral Group is set to develop and build the new shoreline resort, with Disney imagineers leading operational oversight and creative design. “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio,” said chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro. Prior to the theme park announcement, Disney also released its favorable second quarter earning report, recognizing “that uncertainty remains regarding the operating environment for the balance of the fiscal year,” the company said in the report. Disney reported a 7% increase in revenues this quarter in comparison to the same period last year, increasing to $23.6 billion. Notably, Disney’s entertainment saw significant growth, with a 2.5 million subscription growth for Disney+ and Hulu from this years first fiscal quarter. “We have a lot more to look forward to, including our upcoming theatrical slate, the launch of ESPN’s new DTC offering, and an unprecedented number of expansion projects underway in our Experiences segment,” Iger said in the report. “We remain optimistic about the direction of the company and our outlook for the remainder of the fiscal year.” View the full article

House Republicans have added a provision to their sweeping tax cut package that would authorize the sale of thousands of acres of public lands in Nevada and Utah, prompting outrage from Democrats and environmental groups who called the plan a betrayal that could lead to increased drilling, mining and logging in the West. Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee adopted the land sales proposal early Wednesday morning. The initial draft had not included it amid bipartisan opposition. The land sale provision put forward by Republican Reps. Mark Amodei of Nevada and Celeste Maloy of Utah would sell thousands of acres of public lands in the two states, and calls for some of the parcels to be considered for affordable housing projects. Rep. Joe Neguse , D-Colo., called the plan “deeply irresponsible.” “Public lands shouldn’t have a price tag on them. But (President) Donald The President and his allies in Congress are working like mad to hand over our public lands to billionaires and corporate polluters to drill, mine and log with the bare minimum oversight or accountability,” said Athan Manuel, director of Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program. The lands potentially for sale “belong to all Americans. They shouldn’t be given away to pad corporate bottom lines,” Manuel said. The sales were approved as the Natural Resources committee voted 26-17 to advance legislation that would allow increased leasing of public lands for drilling, mining and logging while clearing the path for more development by speeding up government approvals. Royalty rates paid by companies to extract oil, gas and coal would be cut, reversing former Democratic President Joe Biden’s attempts to curb fossil fuels to help address climate change. The measure is part of The President’s big bill of tax breaks, spending cuts and beefed-up funding to halt migrants. House Speaker Mike Johnson has set a goal of passing the package out of his chamber by Memorial Day. All told, 11 different House committees are crafting portions of the bill. Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke, a Republican and former Interior secretary in the first The President administration, had said before the vote that he was drawing a “red line” on public land sales. “It’s a no now. It will be a no later. It will be a no forever,” said Zinke, whose state includes large parcels of federally owned lands. Zinke and Rep. Gabe Vasquez, D-New Mexico, are set to lead a new bipartisan Public Lands Caucus intended to protect and expand access to America’s public lands. The caucus was set to launch on Wednesday, hours after the resources panel vote. Oil and gas royalty rates would drop from 16.7% on public lands and 18.75% offshore to a uniform 12.5% under the committee-passed bill, which still faces a vote in the full House and Senate once it is incoporated into the final legislative package. Royalties for coal would drop from 12.5% to 7%. The measure calls for four oil and gas lease sales in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge over the next decade. It also seeks to boost the ailing coal industry with a mandate to make available for leasing 6,250 square miles of public lands — an area greater in size than Connecticut. Republican supporters say the lost revenue would be offset by increased development. It’s uncertain if companies would have an appetite for leases given the industry’s precipitous decline in recent years as utilities switched to cleaner burning fuels and renewable energy. Drew McConville, a senior fellow at the liberal Center for American Progress, denounced the committee vote. “The The President tax bill was already a massive and historic sellout of U.S. lands and waters to corporate interests. This dark-of-night maneuver shows how shamelessly focused congressional Republicans are on sacrificing public benefits to pay for The President’s reckless tax cuts. If this bill passes, the losses to America’s great outdoor legacy will be felt for generations,” McConville said in a statement. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner in March proposed using “underutilized” federal land for affordable housing. Turner said some 7 million homes are needed. Officials under Biden also sought to use public lands for affordable housing, although on a smaller scale. The agencies have not yet released more details of the proposal. —Matthew Daly and Matthew Brown, Associated Press View the full article

This article breaks down 10 essential types of flowcharts and explains when and how to use each in digital project management. From process flowcharts to BPMN diagrams, it offers practical tips for improving communication, identifying bottlenecks, and streamlining complex workflows. The post 10 Types Of Flowcharts And When To Use Them appeared first on The Digital Project Manager. View the full article

Key Takeaways Adaptability is Crucial: Small businesses must quickly adapt their strategies to stay competitive in a fast-paced market influenced by consumer behavior and technological advancements.Importance of Strategic Shifts: Implementing strategic shifts can lead to improved decision-making, enhanced productivity, and better cash flow management, ultimately ensuring long-term success.Understanding Consumer Behavior: Monitoring shifts in consumer preferences is vital for tailoring marketing strategies and improving customer retention efforts, fostering loyalty over time.Types of Strategy Shifts: Small businesses can achieve growth by pivoting products or services, changing target markets, and optimizing operational processes to enhance efficiency.Setting Clear Goals and Engaging Teams: Establishing defined objectives and involving team members in strategic changes are essential for effective implementation and overall business success. In today’s fast-paced market, small businesses must adapt quickly to stay competitive. Whether it’s a shift in consumer behavior or new technology trends, your strategy needs to evolve. Embracing change can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving. You might find yourself rethinking your approach to everything from marketing to customer engagement. By identifying key areas for improvement and implementing innovative strategies, you can position your business for long-term success. Let’s explore the essential shifts you can make to not just keep up but lead the way in your industry. Understanding Small Business Strategy Shifts Understanding small business strategy shifts involves recognizing changes that impact your management and operations. Adapting to these changes can enhance your business growth and ensure long-term success. Definition of Small Business Strategy Small business strategy refers to the plan that outlines how your enterprise will achieve its goals. It encompasses various aspects such as financial planning, marketing strategy, and operational efficiency. A well-defined strategy aligns your team management efforts with business objectives. For instance, you might implement project management techniques to optimize workflows, ensuring the timely completion of tasks. Importance of Strategic Shifts Strategic shifts play a crucial role in maintaining competitiveness. In today’s fast-paced market, your ability to adapt determines your business’s longevity. Adopting new technology solutions can streamline operations, enhance employee training, and improve customer service. These shifts lead to better decision-making and increased productivity. For example, leveraging data analysis helps refine your marketing campaigns and boosts customer retention rates. Embracing operational changes can also provide better cash flow management, supporting your overall business model and facilitating business expansion. Reasons for Small Business Strategy Shifts Small businesses often adjust their strategies to thrive in a dynamic market. These shifts respond to economic changes, technological trends, and evolving consumer behavior. Market Changes Economic shifts can significantly affect your demand for products and services. During economic downturns, you might diversify your offerings or focus on cost leadership to remain competitive. For example, implementing a more robust pricing strategy during a recession can help retain customers by appealing to their budget-conscious habits. Seasonal businesses should also explore ways to maintain revenue, such as offering products or services tailored to various seasonal needs. This flexibility ensures a consistent cash flow throughout the year. Technological Advancements Advancements in technology can revolutionize how you manage business operations. Embracing software tools for project management, customer service, or inventory management can enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Adopting technology solutions streamlines your workflow, automates repetitive tasks, and improves employee training protocols, ultimately leading to better decision-making. Regularly evaluating new tools can keep your business competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. Consumer Behavior Understanding shifts in consumer behavior is crucial for adapting your marketing strategy and customer acquisition efforts. Changes in preferences or buying patterns often require you to pivot your approach. Gathering customer feedback through surveys or focused discussions lets you tailor your offerings effectively. Additionally, analyzing data on customer trends can inform your sales management and customer retention strategies, leading to sustained business growth. Staying attuned to your audience’s needs fosters loyalty and encourages repeat business. Types of Small Business Strategy Shifts Understanding the various types of small business strategy shifts is vital for effective leadership and successful management. These shifts allow you to adapt to market conditions and ensure business growth. Pivoting Products or Services A pivot in products or services signifies a significant change in your business. This shift often arises from evolving market conditions or changing consumer demands. Product Feature Pivot: Adding or modifying features of your current products helps meet market needs and increases customer satisfaction. Developing New Offerings: Introduce completely new products or services that either complement or replace existing ones. For example, a snowplow business might diversify how it generates revenue by branching into moving or rubbish removal. This adaptation allows for better cash flow management during off-peak seasons. Changing Target Markets Changing target markets can enhance your customer acquisition strategies. Adjusting your focus allows you to tap into new customer segments. Identifying New Audiences: Conduct data analysis to understand demographic shifts and identify potential customers. This helps in fine-tuning marketing strategies and expanding your reach. Creating Tailored Marketing Campaigns: Develop campaigns specifically aimed at these new target groups. Effective brand management in this context can elevate your market presence. Adapting Operational Processes Optimizing operational processes enhances overall efficiency. Streamlined business processes can lead to increased productivity. Implementing Technology Solutions: Invest in software tools that automate mundane tasks. Automation helps in improved time management and allows your team to focus more on strategic initiatives. Improving Workflow: Analyze current workflows and make necessary adjustments. This leads to greater operational efficiency and can significantly reduce lag times in meeting deadlines. These strategic shifts collectively support your overarching business goals, setting you up for sustained success in a competitive environment. Implementing Effective Strategy Shifts Successful small businesses adapt effectively to change by implementing strategic shifts that align with evolving market conditions. You can leverage these shifts to enhance performance and achieve your business goals. Assessing Current Position Evaluating your current position is crucial for identifying gaps and opportunities. Recognize signs of change in your market, including consumer behavior shifts and technological advancements. Regularly monitor your business environment to stay informed. Understanding limitations in your product offerings or seasonality helps you diversify and maintain a steady revenue stream. Setting Clear Goals Establishing clear, measurable goals sets the direction for your strategic shifts. Define specific business objectives related to growth, customer acquisition, and operational efficiency. Use SMART criteria—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—to ensure your goals support overall business strategy. Clear goals facilitate effective decision-making, allowing you to allocate resources, budget accordingly, and evaluate performance over time. Engaging Team Members Engaging your team is vital for successful implementation. Ensure all employees understand new strategies and their roles within these changes. Foster a culture of open communication where team members can contribute ideas and feedback. Providing training and resources enhances employee development, leading to better collaboration and improved productivity. Encouraging team input not only boosts morale but also helps address potential challenges early, ensuring a smoother transition. Conclusion Embracing strategic shifts is essential for your small business to thrive in today’s dynamic landscape. By staying adaptable and responsive to market changes you can not only meet consumer demands but also seize new opportunities. Focusing on innovation and operational efficiency will empower you to enhance customer engagement and loyalty. Remember to involve your team in this journey as their insights and collaboration can drive successful implementation. With the right strategies in place you’ll position your business for long-term success and competitiveness in an ever-evolving market. Frequently Asked Questions Why is it important for small businesses to adapt quickly to market changes? Adapting quickly enables small businesses to stay relevant and competitive. It allows them to respond to shifts in consumer behavior, technological advancements, and economic changes, ensuring they meet customer needs effectively and optimize operations. What is meant by a small business strategy shift? A small business strategy shift refers to changes in a company’s comprehensive plan to achieve its goals. This may involve adjusting financial strategies, marketing approaches, or operational processes to cope with market dynamics and enhance overall competitiveness. How can small businesses identify areas for improvement? Businesses can identify improvement areas by gathering customer feedback, analyzing market trends, and evaluating their current operations. Regular assessments enable owners to pinpoint weaknesses and leverage opportunities for growth. What are the types of strategic shifts for small businesses? Types of strategic shifts include pivoting product or service offerings, changing target markets, and adapting operational processes with technology. Each shift helps businesses align with market demands and enhance customer engagement. How do technology solutions enhance small business operations? Technology solutions streamline operations, improve employee training, and upgrade customer service. By automating processes and providing data insights, these tools can enhance decision-making and productivity, ultimately leading to better business outcomes. What role does communication play in implementing strategy shifts? Open communication fosters collaboration and helps team members understand new goals and strategies. Engaging employees during the shift process enhances buy-in, reduces resistance, and improves the overall effectiveness of the implementation. How can SMART goals guide strategic shifts? SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound—provide clear targets for small businesses during strategic shifts. They help in tracking progress and ensuring that actions align with the overall business objectives, facilitating better decision-making. Image Via Envato This article, "Mastering Small Business Strategy Shifts for Lasting Success and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you have a Samsung Galaxy phone, you'll soon be able to send money to friends and family instantly simply by tapping your devices together. A new peer-to-peer payment feature transfers funds from debit cards in your Samsung Wallet to those stored in a recipient's digital wallet or their physical tap-to-pay card. The feature will be available to Samsung Wallet users in the U.S. later this month. How Samsung Wallet 'Tap to Transfer' worksSamsung's new "Tap to Transfer" feature utilizes NFC technology to connect to debit cards in any digital wallet, meaning you can send cash even if the recipient uses a different third-party app (like Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) or only has a physical debit card. Alternatively, you can transfer money to other Samsung Wallet users by searching for their phone number if they aren't nearby to tap. There are a few benefits to Tap to Transfer. First, it doesn't require everyone to use the same peer-to-peer payment service like Venmo or Cash App, making it easier in situations like splitting dinner bills to move money around to all members of the group and eliminating the hassle of signing up for a new app. It also deposits funds to linked bank accounts in minutes (depending on the bank), so you don't have to wait days or pay fees for instant transfers. (Note that the debit card in your Samsung Wallet must be a Visa or Mastercard for this feature to work.) Samsung Wallet, like Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, allows users to store everything from payment cards and IDs to loyalty cards and digital keys to concert tickets and boarding passes. Apple also has a peer-to-peer payment feature called Tap to Cash, but both users must have compatible iOS or watchOS devices with Apple Cash already set up. View the full article

The vertical video feed is coming to the Netflix app. The streaming service announced Tuesday that in the coming weeks it will pilot the new feature, which it will populate with short-form clips of movies and shows tailored to the end-user’s viewing habits. Netflix users will be able to swipe through the feed to watch, save, or share content with friends, just like Tiktok. Yep the user interface that took over social media is making its way into streaming—but most importantly for Netflix, it’s a play for improving its own content discovery engine. “We know that swiping through a vertical feed on social media apps is an easy way to browse video content, and we also know that our members love to browse our clips and trailers to find their next obsession, so in the coming weeks we’ll be testing a vertical feed filled with clips of Netflix shows and movies to make discovery easy and fun,” Netflix’s chief product officer Eunice Kim said during a virtual presentation. During this mobile-only test, the vertical video feed won’t be available to every single member, Netflix tells Fast Company, but those who get it will see recommendations personalized to them, with feature clips from their “top picks for you.” Netflix previously tried vertical-video feeds in 2021 with two themed apps, Fast Laughs for comedy clips and Kids Clips for clips from its children’s programming, but it’s forthcoming in-app pilot expands on that concept across the streamer’s library. The announcement was one of a number of design changes Netflix announced Tuesday, including a new “My Netflix” tab with listed content, reminders for upcoming shows, and a continue watching feed, as well as a homepage designed to show more information at a glance, including callouts like “New Episode,” “Recently Added,” “Oscar Winner,” and “We think you’ll love this” that appear with their own emoji-style icons next to shows. The company is also considering expanding into video podcasts. But it’s the vertical video feed that seems aimed at killing two birds with one stone. Netflix head of design Steve Johnson told Fast Company last year that the two things that keep him up at night are discovery and competition for viewing time from a generation that spends a majority of its viewing hours on mobile devices. By piloting its own short-form, vertical video feed, Netflix is trying to both improve discovery and carve out more viewing time on its app with a swiping experience borrowed from social media. Already, TikTok’s social media competitors like Instagram have made design changes that mirror its vertical video layout, and that trend is now creeping into other app categories. (Tubi launched its own TikTok-ified discovery format, called “Scenes,” last fall.) As TikTok became more popular, full-length, professionally shot shows had to compete with more and more short-form video content, and even with amateur, recorded snippets of their own IP popping up in social feeds. Now, Netflix is trying to meet viewers where they are, with a few potential benefits. By offering viewers shareable clips of its own shows, Netflix has a say in how its content appears on other platforms, while still taking advantage of the soft marketing of user-generated fandom. And if cutting up its shows into bite-size videos and organizing them in a format familiar to social media natives provides Netflix a better discovery funnel for new shows, the format could soon find other closed platform imitators. View the full article

Bill Pulte once again claimed he's signed over 50 directives at the housing regulator, although he's only made some of those that affect lenders public. View the full article

Policymakers warn levies could increase inflation and unemployment in threat to US central bank’s mandate View the full article

CrowdStrike reiterated its fiscal 2026 first quarter and annual forecasts on Wednesday and announced a plan to cut about 500 roles, roughly 5% of its workforce, to streamline operations and reduce costs. The cybersecurity company will incur about $36 million to $53 million in charges related to the layoffs, of which about $7 million will be recognized in the first quarter ended April 30, it said in a regulatory filing. Austin, Texas-based CrowdStrike said the rest of the charges will be seen in the second quarter. The charges primarily consist of future cash expenditure related to severance payments, employee benefits, and related costs. The company’s shares were down nearly 4% in morning trading. CrowdStrike had 10,118 full-time employees as of January 31, according to its annual report. “While we will continue to prudently hire, primarily in customer-facing and product engineering roles, we are reducing roles in some areas of the business,” CEO George Kurtz said in a note to the company’s employees. Cybersecurity remains a priority for businesses and governments at a time when high-profile hacking incidents have hit companies such as Microsoft, UnitedHealth Group and Walt Disney. Analysts have said CrowdStrike’s prompt handling of the Windows outage last year, which disrupted internet services globally, helped the company maintain customer trust. CrowdStrike reiterated its full-year 2026 revenue forecast to be between $4.74 billion and $4.81 billion and reaffirmed its annual adjusted profit-per-share estimate of $3.33 to $3.45. The company’s forecast for first-quarter revenue was between $1.10 billion and $1.11 billion. “This will likely spark debate on if this announcement is coming from a place of weakness or strength—to which we broadly believe it is the latter,” multinational financial services company Piper Sandler said in a note. CrowdStrike will release financial results for its first quarter on June 3. —Jaspreet Singh, Reuters View the full article

On average, Americans spend $77 each month (or $924 annually) on subscriptions, according to a recent survey. But how many of those subscriptions are really adding value to our lives, and how many are set to autopay and simply slip through the cracks every month? From streaming entertainment and fitness apps to meal delivery kits and software tools, if you’re not sure what you’re spending every month on subscriptions, it's time for a personal audit. Why you need to audit your subscriptionsWhile subscription services offer convenience, they can silently drain your bank account when left unchecked. There’s a reason why auto-renewal subscription payments are referred to as “evergreen.” At the end of either a monthly or annual subscription term, these services renew automatically unless you choose to cancel. Of course, this is why they’re so hard to track. If you stop using the service, you tend to forget the service exists and not notice the charges adding up. Plus, it's all too easy to fall victim to a free trial trap. Many services lure customers with free trials that automatically convert to paid subscriptions. Companies count on you forgetting to cancel before the trial ends, turning your momentary interest into a recurring expense. Even if you're selective on your end, subscription services frequently raise their prices after you've become dependent on them. These increases might seem small individually, but they add up across multiple services. How to conduct a subscription auditSure, you can download a dedicated subscription tracking service. These apps connect to your bank accounts and automatically identify your subscription services, which you can then track on a custom dashboard. But remember that many of these apps are tiered and additional services might charge you a monthly fee, which makes them… yet another autopay subscription service. Here's how to conduct an audit on your own, for free. Track down all your subscriptionsThe first step is to identify recurring charges on your credit card, debit card, or online banking accounts. Set aside an hour to list all of your monthly and annual subscription expenses for the past year. Don’t recognize a few of them? Or maybe there’s a service you like but rarely use? Go ahead and cancel those. Create a calendar reminder for yourself to do this every month or so if you really want to stay on top of it. Some charges might not be easy to pin down, so you need to play detective using the following steps: Review the last three months of credit card and bank statements Check your email for subscription confirmations and receipts Look through your app store subscriptions (Apple App Store, Google Play) Check payment services like PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App Review your Amazon recurring orders and subscriptions Don't forget annual subscriptions that might not appear in recent statements. Create a subscription trackerNow it's time for a spreadsheet. For each subscription, document: Service name Monthly/annual cost Billing date Last time you used the service Whether it's essential or non-essential This visual representation helps you understand your total subscription spending and identify potential cuts. Evaluate each subscription's valueAssuming you're not going full scorched-earth, you'll need to evaluate each subscription to see if it makes the cut. Ask yourself these questions for each service: When was the last time I used this? Does this subscription save me money compared to pay-per-use? Could I downgrade to a cheaper tier? Is there a free alternative that would work nearly as well? Does this subscription meaningfully improve my life? Be honest about which services truly add value, versus those you keep out of habit or inertia. Take action: Cancel, pause, or negotiateFor services you decide to keep: Mark renewal dates on your calendar Look for annual payment options that might offer discounts Contact customer service to negotiate better rates For those you don't need: Cancel immediately (don't wait until the next billing cycle) Take screenshots of cancellation confirmations Remove payment information when possible The bottom lineThink about it like this: Even cutting just $50 in monthly subscriptions saves $600 annually. I recommend implementing an ongoing system. Schedule quarterly subscription audits on your calendar, enable notifications for all subscription charges, and even consider a dedicated credit card for subscriptions to easily track spending. Take an hour this weekend to audit your subscriptions. Your future self (and bank account) will thank you. View the full article

A reader writes: I am currently looking for a new job because I am currently being taken advantage of … again (being given more and more work because I am skilled enough I handle it, but no pay increase so underpaid for my experience and the world we live in right now). So pay is the main factor for me in this job search. My first instinct is to just completely ignore the job postings without the pay listed because I don’t want to waste my time. A job may look perfect but if it’s for the same amount I’m making now (or less!) or not that much more, I don’t care what it is. (I also don’t care what it is if the pay is right. If I think I can do it, I’m applying.) But with no way of knowing right off the bat, why bother? Is that a mistake? Potentially, because some of the jobs that don’t list what they pay could turn out to pay enough that you’d consider them. On the other hand, you’re not wrong that it’s a waste of time to apply for jobs that don’t pay enough. So ultimately this comes down to whether you feel like you’re getting enough interviews from your current strategy or not. If you are, then great — no need to change anything. But if you’re not happy with how your job search is going — or, maybe, if a job looks really interesting to you — play around with applying anyway, and then ask about pay early on. In fact, it’s reasonable to ask about the pay as soon as you’re invited to interview. When a company reaches out to set up an interview, you can say, “I’d love to talk more. Before we confirm an interview time, can you share the salary range for the position? It wasn’t listed in the ad, and I don’t want to take up your time if we’re not in the same ballpark.” Not every company will give you a straight answer to that, but a lot will. (And fortunately it’s no longer considered an outrageous faux pas to ask, like it weirdly used to be.) If they won’t tell you, you have the option of saying, “I’d need at least $X to move from my current job. Knowing that, does it make sense to move forward?” Not everyone wants to do this because naming a number first means potentially giving up some of your negotiating power later, but given your particular set of priorities (where you’d consider passing up the job altogether otherwise), there’s an argument for doing it. The post should I ignore job postings that don’t list the salary? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Artificial intelligence (AI) is upending the economic engine of the web, and Google is at the center of the disruption, according to Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince. What Prince said. In a recent interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, Prince said: “AI is going to fundamentally change the business model of the web. The business model of the web for the last 15 years has been search… search drives everything that happens online.” The Google tipping point. Google’s value exchange with content creators has collapsed, Prince said: “Ten years ago… for every two pages of a website that Google scraped, they would send you one visitor. … That was the trade. … Now, it takes six pages scraped to get one visitor.” That drop reflects the rise of zero-click searches, which happen when searchers get answers directly on Google’s search page. “Today, 75 percent of the queries… get answered without you leaving Google.” This trend, long criticized by publishers and SEOs, is part of a broader concern: AI companies are using original content to generate answers that rarely/never drive traffic back to creators. AI makes the problem worse. Large language models (LLMs) are accelerating the crisis, Prince said. AI companies scrape far more content per user interaction than Google ever has — with even less return to creators. “What do you think it is for OpenAI? 250 to one. What do you think it is for Anthropic? Six thousand to one.” “More and more the answers… won’t lead you to the original source, it will be some derivative of that source.” This situation threatens the sustainability of the web as we know it, Prince said: “If content creators can’t derive value… then they’re not going to create original content.” The modern web is breaking. AI companies are aware of the problem, and the business model of the web can’t survive unless there’s some change, Prince said: “Sam Altman at OpenAI and others get that. But… he can’t be the only one paying for content when everyone else gets it for free.” Cloudflare’s right in the middle of this problem — it powers 80% of AI companies and a 20-30% of the web. Cloudfaire is now trying to figure out how to help fix what’s broken, Prince said. AI = money fire. Prince is not against AI. However, he said he is skeptical of the investment frenzy. “I would guess that 99% of the money that people are spending on these projects today is just getting lit on fire. But 1% is going to be incredibly valuable.” “And so maybe we’ve all got a light, you know, $100 on fire to find that $1 that matters.” The full quote. “AI is going to fundamentally change the business model of the web. The business model of the web for the last 15 years has been search. One way or another, search drives everything that happens online. And if you look back 10 years ago, if you did a search on Google you got back a list of 10 blue links. And we have data on how Google processed those 10 blue links. And the answer was that for every two pages of a website that Google scraped they would send you one visitor, right? So scrape two pages, get one visitor. And that was the trade. Over that period of time of the ten years some things have changed at Google. One thing that hasn’t changed is the crawl rate. They’re still scraping at the exact same rate that they have over that period of time. But now it takes six pages scraped to get one visitor. What’s changed? The answer is that today, 75 percent of the queries that get put into Google get answered without you leaving Google, get answered on that page. So if you want to ask, when did David Rubenstein start Carlyle? About 10 years ago it would take you to maybe a Wikipedia page or something else. Today, the answer comes up right on the page, and you don’t have to go anywhere else. The consequence of that means that original content creators that are creating that content, if they were deriving value through selling subscriptions or putting up ads, or just the ego of knowing that someone is reading your stuff, that’s gone, right? That’s has fallen off a cliff. And that’s the good news. So it was 2:1 10 years ago for Google. It’s 6:1 today. What do you think it is for OpenAI? 250:1. What do you think it is for Anthropic? 6,000:1, right? And so the business model of the web can’t survive unless there’s some change, because more and more the answers to the questions that you ask won’t lead you to the original source, it will be some derivative of that source. And if content creators can’t derive value from what they’re doing, then they’re not going to create original content. And I think the smartest AI companies out there, Sam Altman at OpenAI and others, get that. But at the same time, he can’t be a sucker. He can’t be the only one paying for content when everyone else gets it for free. And so something has to change with that business model. And we sit in between 80 percent of the AI companies use Cloudflare, similar—you know, 20 to 30 percent of the web uses Cloudflare. And so we sit in the middle of that. And I think part of what we’re thinking about is that. In terms of, is AI a fad, is it overhyped? I think the answer is probably yes and no. I would guess that 99 percent of the money that people are spending on these projects today is just getting lit on fire. But 1 percent is going to be incredibly valuable. And I can’t tell you what 1 percent of that is. And so maybe we’ve all got a light, you know, $100 on fire to find that one dollar that matters.” The interview. Bernard L. Schwartz Annual Lecture With Matthew Prince of Cloudflare View the full article

Senior executive says tech group is looking at start-up options for iPhone and Safari browserView the full article

Labour seeks to show voters it is getting to grips with number of foreigners coming to work in BritainView the full article

Key Takeaways Business Cards as Brand Representatives: Business cards serve as a vital reflection of your brand, encapsulating your identity and values in a tangible form. Importance of Design and Quality: A well-designed business card made from durable materials enhances credibility, leaving a lasting impression and supporting effective networking. Key Information to Include: Essential details such as your name, title, contact information, and a clear call-to-action are crucial for maximizing communication and engagement. Cultural Sensitivity in Card Exchange: Different cultures have unique norms regarding business card presentation; understanding these customs is critical for respectful networking and business development. Comparing Digital and Physical Cards: While digital cards offer convenience and eco-friendliness, physical cards provide a personal touch that can significantly enhance networking efforts in face-to-face interactions. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool: Investing in quality business cards is a budget-friendly strategy that can yield high returns in brand recognition and customer acquisition. In today’s fast-paced business world, a simple piece of cardstock can make a powerful impression. Business cards are more than just contact information; they’re a reflection of your brand and personality. You might think you know everything about them, but there are fascinating facts that can change how you view this essential networking tool. From their historical roots to modern design trends, business cards have evolved significantly. Understanding these facts can help you create a card that stands out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, knowing the ins and outs of business cards can elevate your networking game and leave a lasting impact. Overview of Business Card Facts Business cards serve as essential tools for small businesses. You use them to share contact information and create impressions. Here are some key facts about business cards that influence your networking efforts. Design Matters: The design of your business card reflects your brand’s identity. Professional designs help communicate your business values and attract attention. Durability Counts: Quality materials enhance the longevity of the card. Cards made from thicker paper or durable finishes withstand daily handling, leaving a lasting impact. Information Density: Including essential information is crucial. Ensure your card contains your name, title, company name, phone number, email, and website for effective communication. Cultural Considerations: Different cultures have unique customs regarding business cards. Understanding these practices ensures respectful networking across diverse markets. Digital Alternatives: Digital business cards are gaining popularity. These solutions offer ease of sharing through technology but may lack the personal touch of traditional cards. Networking Impact: Studies show that business cards significantly increase connection opportunities. They enhance your chances of networking effectively, improving customer acquisition. Cost-Effectiveness: Printing costs for business cards vary widely. Investing in quality cards is a budget-friendly marketing strategy that yields high returns. Call to Action: Including a clear call to action can drive engagement. Encourage recipients to visit your website or follow your business on social media. These facts highlight the role of business cards in driving small business growth. Utilize them strategically to enhance your marketing strategy and improve brand management. History of Business Cards Business cards have evolved significantly over centuries, playing a crucial role in networking and brand management for small businesses. The Evolution Over Time Business cards trace their origins to 15th-century China, where “visiting cards” served as status symbols among the elite. These cards facilitated meetings and established social connections. By the 17th century, they reached Europe, primarily among aristocrats, serving similar purposes while announcing arrivals. During this period, “trade cards” appeared to guide individuals to businesses in cities lacking address systems. These cards provided essential promotional information and maps, marking the intersection of social and business interactions. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries blurred the lines between social and trade cards. As business operations expanded, cards became vital tools for small businesses, helping to communicate quality and professionalism. Modern business cards incorporate advanced designs reflecting branding strategies, playing a pivotal role in customer acquisition and retention. Cultural Variations Cultural norms influence business card usage globally. In Japan, for instance, business card etiquette stresses the importance of respect in presenting and receiving cards. You’ll notice individuals using both hands and taking time to examine the card, recognizing its value in building business relationships. In contrast, Western cultures often prioritize straightforward exchanges, focusing on the information presented. In other cultures, cards may carry various meanings and customs tied to hierarchy or social status. Understanding these nuances enhances your team’s communication skills and fosters effective collaboration. As you navigate international markets, appreciating these cultural variations in card etiquette can significantly impact business development and partnerships. Importance of Business Cards Business cards play a crucial role in today’s corporate communication landscape. They create tangible connections that digital interactions often lack, making them essential for small business success. Networking Opportunities You can leverage business cards to maximize networking opportunities. They provide an easy way to share your contact information with potential clients, partners, and collaborators. When you hand someone your card, it signifies professionalism and a commitment to meaningful connections. Studies show that 72% of people judge a business based on the quality of its business cards. Therefore, a well-crafted card enhances your credibility, potentially leading to valuable business partnerships and customer acquisition. Branding and Marketing Business cards are effective branding tools that contribute to your marketing strategy. A high-quality card reflects your brand’s identity and values, which plays a significant role in brand management. They incorporate essential elements like your logo and color scheme, enabling you to create a memorable first impression. By effectively representing your brand, business cards support business growth and enhance visibility in competitive environments. Using a distinct design can lead to improved customer retention and recognition, making your card a small yet powerful asset in your overall marketing campaign. Designing an Effective Business Card Creating an effective business card involves thoughtful design elements to convey professional identity and reinforce brand management. Below are key areas to focus on while designing your business card. Key Elements to Include Contact Information: Include your full name, job title, phone number, email address, and website. Ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. This straightforward approach helps facilitate efficient communication and enhances customer service. Brand Consistency: Use your brand’s colors, logo, and typography to create a cohesive and memorable design. Consistency in branding supports your marketing strategy, making it easier for potential clients to recognize your business. Value Proposition: Provide a brief summary or tagline that highlights your business offerings and why clients should choose your services. A clear value proposition drives customer acquisition and reflects strategic planning. QR Code: Consider adding a QR code that allows recipients to quickly scan and access your contact information or website. This technological integration simplifies workflow and modernizes your approach to networking. Common Mistakes to Avoid Overcrowding Information: Avoid cramming too much text on your card. Prioritize essential information and maintain clarity. Overloading can hinder effective communication and create a negative first impression. Using Poor Quality Materials: Skimping on card quality impacts perceived professionalism. Choose durable materials that hold up over time. Quality contributes to enhanced customer retention and demonstrates attention to detail. Neglecting Cultural Norms: Ignoring regional business card customs can undermine networking efforts. Be aware of cultural etiquette to support business development and foster strong partnerships. Lack of Clear Call-to-Action: Failing to include a call-to-action can reduce engagement. Guide potential customers toward the next steps, enhancing your marketing campaigns and increasing the likelihood of follow-up. Through careful consideration of these elements and common pitfalls, you can design a business card that not only represents your small business effectively but also aligns with your overall business strategy and goals. Digital vs. Physical Business Cards Digital and physical business cards serve distinct purposes in the realm of business networking. Understanding their differences can enhance your networking strategy, especially for small business growth. Advantages of Digital Options Digital business cards offer significant benefits for small businesses. They allow for instant updates, so your contact information remains current without needing reprints. Their ecological sustainability appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. Digital cards facilitate easy sharing via email or social media, streamlining distribution. You can incorporate interactive features, such as links to your website or social media profiles, enhancing engagement and customer acquisition. Additionally, the global digital business card market is rapidly growing, valued at $159.4 million in 2022 and projected to reach $505.2 million by 2032. This growth underscores their increasing relevance in modern business practices. When to Use Physical Cards Physical business cards maintain a tangible presence in networking. They provide a personal touch that digital formats often lack. Use physical cards during face-to-face meetings, conferences, and networking events where immediate impressions matter. Physical cards also align with cultural norms in many regions, showcasing professionalism in business interactions. According to statistics, over 27 million business cards are printed daily, with a market expected to hit $232.3 million by 2027. Despite the high production, remember that 88% of business cards are discarded within a week, highlighting the importance of design and quality. Selecting durable materials will leave a lasting impression, reinforcing your brand management strategies and commitment to excellence. Conclusion Your business card is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a powerful tool that represents your brand and facilitates connections. By understanding its historical significance and the modern design trends, you can create a card that resonates with your audience. Investing in quality materials and thoughtful design can significantly enhance your networking efforts. Remember to consider cultural nuances and include essential information to make a lasting impression. Whether you opt for traditional or digital formats, your business card should reflect your professionalism and commitment to building meaningful relationships. Embrace the potential of this small yet impactful asset to elevate your brand and drive growth. Frequently Asked Questions What is the role of business cards in networking? Business cards serve as a tangible tool for sharing contact information and establishing connections. They reflect your brand and professionalism, making them essential for effective networking in today’s business landscape. How have business cards evolved over time? Initially, business cards originated in 15th-century China as status symbols. Over the centuries, they transformed into vital networking tools, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, and have adapted to contemporary design trends. Why is the design of a business card important? The design impacts first impressions and reflects your brand’s identity. A well-crafted business card showcases professionalism, encourages engagement, and helps create memorable connections in networking situations. What essential information should a business card include? A business card should contain your name, title, company name, phone number, email address, and website. Including a clear call-to-action can also enhance engagement and prompt recipients to reach out. How can cultural variations affect business card etiquette? Cultural norms dictate how business cards are exchanged; for instance, in Japan, they are offered with respect and both hands. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective communication in international networking. What advantages do digital business cards offer? Digital business cards provide instant updates, easy sharing, and are eco-friendly. They appeal to modern consumers looking for convenience, making them a growing trend in networking. Why is quality important when designing business cards? Quality materials and design significantly influence how your business is perceived. Studies show that 72% of people assess a business based on card quality, making high-quality cards vital for credibility. What common mistakes should be avoided in business card design? Avoid overcrowding the card with information, using poor-quality materials, ignoring cultural norms, and failing to include a clear call-to-action. These missteps can diminish your card’s effectiveness and impact. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Business Card Facts to Elevate Your Networking Game and Brand Identity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Business Cards as Brand Representatives: Business cards serve as a vital reflection of your brand, encapsulating your identity and values in a tangible form. Importance of Design and Quality: A well-designed business card made from durable materials enhances credibility, leaving a lasting impression and supporting effective networking. Key Information to Include: Essential details such as your name, title, contact information, and a clear call-to-action are crucial for maximizing communication and engagement. Cultural Sensitivity in Card Exchange: Different cultures have unique norms regarding business card presentation; understanding these customs is critical for respectful networking and business development. Comparing Digital and Physical Cards: While digital cards offer convenience and eco-friendliness, physical cards provide a personal touch that can significantly enhance networking efforts in face-to-face interactions. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool: Investing in quality business cards is a budget-friendly strategy that can yield high returns in brand recognition and customer acquisition. In today’s fast-paced business world, a simple piece of cardstock can make a powerful impression. Business cards are more than just contact information; they’re a reflection of your brand and personality. You might think you know everything about them, but there are fascinating facts that can change how you view this essential networking tool. From their historical roots to modern design trends, business cards have evolved significantly. Understanding these facts can help you create a card that stands out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, knowing the ins and outs of business cards can elevate your networking game and leave a lasting impact. Overview of Business Card Facts Business cards serve as essential tools for small businesses. You use them to share contact information and create impressions. Here are some key facts about business cards that influence your networking efforts. Design Matters: The design of your business card reflects your brand’s identity. Professional designs help communicate your business values and attract attention. Durability Counts: Quality materials enhance the longevity of the card. Cards made from thicker paper or durable finishes withstand daily handling, leaving a lasting impact. Information Density: Including essential information is crucial. Ensure your card contains your name, title, company name, phone number, email, and website for effective communication. Cultural Considerations: Different cultures have unique customs regarding business cards. Understanding these practices ensures respectful networking across diverse markets. Digital Alternatives: Digital business cards are gaining popularity. These solutions offer ease of sharing through technology but may lack the personal touch of traditional cards. Networking Impact: Studies show that business cards significantly increase connection opportunities. They enhance your chances of networking effectively, improving customer acquisition. Cost-Effectiveness: Printing costs for business cards vary widely. Investing in quality cards is a budget-friendly marketing strategy that yields high returns. Call to Action: Including a clear call to action can drive engagement. Encourage recipients to visit your website or follow your business on social media. These facts highlight the role of business cards in driving small business growth. Utilize them strategically to enhance your marketing strategy and improve brand management. History of Business Cards Business cards have evolved significantly over centuries, playing a crucial role in networking and brand management for small businesses. The Evolution Over Time Business cards trace their origins to 15th-century China, where “visiting cards” served as status symbols among the elite. These cards facilitated meetings and established social connections. By the 17th century, they reached Europe, primarily among aristocrats, serving similar purposes while announcing arrivals. During this period, “trade cards” appeared to guide individuals to businesses in cities lacking address systems. These cards provided essential promotional information and maps, marking the intersection of social and business interactions. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries blurred the lines between social and trade cards. As business operations expanded, cards became vital tools for small businesses, helping to communicate quality and professionalism. Modern business cards incorporate advanced designs reflecting branding strategies, playing a pivotal role in customer acquisition and retention. Cultural Variations Cultural norms influence business card usage globally. In Japan, for instance, business card etiquette stresses the importance of respect in presenting and receiving cards. You’ll notice individuals using both hands and taking time to examine the card, recognizing its value in building business relationships. In contrast, Western cultures often prioritize straightforward exchanges, focusing on the information presented. In other cultures, cards may carry various meanings and customs tied to hierarchy or social status. Understanding these nuances enhances your team’s communication skills and fosters effective collaboration. As you navigate international markets, appreciating these cultural variations in card etiquette can significantly impact business development and partnerships. Importance of Business Cards Business cards play a crucial role in today’s corporate communication landscape. They create tangible connections that digital interactions often lack, making them essential for small business success. Networking Opportunities You can leverage business cards to maximize networking opportunities. They provide an easy way to share your contact information with potential clients, partners, and collaborators. When you hand someone your card, it signifies professionalism and a commitment to meaningful connections. Studies show that 72% of people judge a business based on the quality of its business cards. Therefore, a well-crafted card enhances your credibility, potentially leading to valuable business partnerships and customer acquisition. Branding and Marketing Business cards are effective branding tools that contribute to your marketing strategy. A high-quality card reflects your brand’s identity and values, which plays a significant role in brand management. They incorporate essential elements like your logo and color scheme, enabling you to create a memorable first impression. By effectively representing your brand, business cards support business growth and enhance visibility in competitive environments. Using a distinct design can lead to improved customer retention and recognition, making your card a small yet powerful asset in your overall marketing campaign. Designing an Effective Business Card Creating an effective business card involves thoughtful design elements to convey professional identity and reinforce brand management. Below are key areas to focus on while designing your business card. Key Elements to Include Contact Information: Include your full name, job title, phone number, email address, and website. Ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. This straightforward approach helps facilitate efficient communication and enhances customer service. Brand Consistency: Use your brand’s colors, logo, and typography to create a cohesive and memorable design. Consistency in branding supports your marketing strategy, making it easier for potential clients to recognize your business. Value Proposition: Provide a brief summary or tagline that highlights your business offerings and why clients should choose your services. A clear value proposition drives customer acquisition and reflects strategic planning. QR Code: Consider adding a QR code that allows recipients to quickly scan and access your contact information or website. This technological integration simplifies workflow and modernizes your approach to networking. Common Mistakes to Avoid Overcrowding Information: Avoid cramming too much text on your card. Prioritize essential information and maintain clarity. Overloading can hinder effective communication and create a negative first impression. Using Poor Quality Materials: Skimping on card quality impacts perceived professionalism. Choose durable materials that hold up over time. Quality contributes to enhanced customer retention and demonstrates attention to detail. Neglecting Cultural Norms: Ignoring regional business card customs can undermine networking efforts. Be aware of cultural etiquette to support business development and foster strong partnerships. Lack of Clear Call-to-Action: Failing to include a call-to-action can reduce engagement. Guide potential customers toward the next steps, enhancing your marketing campaigns and increasing the likelihood of follow-up. Through careful consideration of these elements and common pitfalls, you can design a business card that not only represents your small business effectively but also aligns with your overall business strategy and goals. Digital vs. Physical Business Cards Digital and physical business cards serve distinct purposes in the realm of business networking. Understanding their differences can enhance your networking strategy, especially for small business growth. Advantages of Digital Options Digital business cards offer significant benefits for small businesses. They allow for instant updates, so your contact information remains current without needing reprints. Their ecological sustainability appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. Digital cards facilitate easy sharing via email or social media, streamlining distribution. You can incorporate interactive features, such as links to your website or social media profiles, enhancing engagement and customer acquisition. Additionally, the global digital business card market is rapidly growing, valued at $159.4 million in 2022 and projected to reach $505.2 million by 2032. This growth underscores their increasing relevance in modern business practices. When to Use Physical Cards Physical business cards maintain a tangible presence in networking. They provide a personal touch that digital formats often lack. Use physical cards during face-to-face meetings, conferences, and networking events where immediate impressions matter. Physical cards also align with cultural norms in many regions, showcasing professionalism in business interactions. According to statistics, over 27 million business cards are printed daily, with a market expected to hit $232.3 million by 2027. Despite the high production, remember that 88% of business cards are discarded within a week, highlighting the importance of design and quality. Selecting durable materials will leave a lasting impression, reinforcing your brand management strategies and commitment to excellence. Conclusion Your business card is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a powerful tool that represents your brand and facilitates connections. By understanding its historical significance and the modern design trends, you can create a card that resonates with your audience. Investing in quality materials and thoughtful design can significantly enhance your networking efforts. Remember to consider cultural nuances and include essential information to make a lasting impression. Whether you opt for traditional or digital formats, your business card should reflect your professionalism and commitment to building meaningful relationships. Embrace the potential of this small yet impactful asset to elevate your brand and drive growth. Frequently Asked Questions What is the role of business cards in networking? Business cards serve as a tangible tool for sharing contact information and establishing connections. They reflect your brand and professionalism, making them essential for effective networking in today’s business landscape. How have business cards evolved over time? Initially, business cards originated in 15th-century China as status symbols. Over the centuries, they transformed into vital networking tools, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, and have adapted to contemporary design trends. Why is the design of a business card important? The design impacts first impressions and reflects your brand’s identity. A well-crafted business card showcases professionalism, encourages engagement, and helps create memorable connections in networking situations. What essential information should a business card include? A business card should contain your name, title, company name, phone number, email address, and website. Including a clear call-to-action can also enhance engagement and prompt recipients to reach out. How can cultural variations affect business card etiquette? Cultural norms dictate how business cards are exchanged; for instance, in Japan, they are offered with respect and both hands. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective communication in international networking. What advantages do digital business cards offer? Digital business cards provide instant updates, easy sharing, and are eco-friendly. They appeal to modern consumers looking for convenience, making them a growing trend in networking. Why is quality important when designing business cards? Quality materials and design significantly influence how your business is perceived. Studies show that 72% of people assess a business based on card quality, making high-quality cards vital for credibility. What common mistakes should be avoided in business card design? Avoid overcrowding the card with information, using poor-quality materials, ignoring cultural norms, and failing to include a clear call-to-action. These missteps can diminish your card’s effectiveness and impact. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Business Card Facts to Elevate Your Networking Game and Brand Identity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Netflix is rolling out a redesign to its TV app, which subscribers will see beginning on May 19. The update is intended to make it easier to find and choose content you actually want to watch rather than endlessly scrolling through the service's library. What's new on the Netflix TV appWhen your Netflix interface updates, you'll find the navigation bar always visible at the top of the screen. There are shortcuts to Search, Shows, Movies, Games, and My Netflix, and a centralized hub for Continue Watching, My List, and Remind Me. The back button on your remote will take you directly to the navigation bar. Tiles for each piece of content will be much larger and show title details—such as whether it was recently added (or is leaving soon) or has won awards, as well as the synopsis, runtime, and key cast members—up front. The app will also provide more responsive recommendations in real time as you browse based on trailers you watch, titles you thumbs up or down, and searches. Netflix will also highlight live events at the top of the home screen. The new features are rolling out globally to most TVs and TV streaming devices over the course of a few weeks, so if you don't see it on May 19, it's likely coming soon. Netflix is also refreshing the mobile app experience, with a vertical video feed of clips and trailers. Users can tap to watch the full version of the show or movie, add it to My List, or share it. The company has been testing an OpenAI-powered feature on iOS that provides recommendations based on conversational phrases describing your mood, so you can search for content using terms other than specific titles, actors, and genres. Initially available only to select users in Australia and New Zealand, this will roll out as an opt-in beta more widely this week. View the full article

ChatGPT leads the AI search market with an 80% share, while traditional search engine use reportedly declines. The post ChatGPT Leads AI Search Race While Google & Others Slip, Data Shows appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Two sides are far apart with only fortnight until post-Brexit ‘reset’ summit in London View the full article

You can’t go long these days without hearing the word “tariff,” and for most of us, just hearing it induces anxiety. Family budgets, already a challenge, are going to get a lot more difficult once the predicted price increases and shortages kick in—one study predicts that these new tariffs will cost American households an average of $3,800 this year alone. If you’re determined to avoid tariff surcharges, you’ve got your work cut out for you—especially when it comes to groceries. About 15% of our food supply is imported, but that number doesn’t necessarily account for food that is sourced domestically but uses imported ingredients. And some staples, like coffee or bananas, are almost exclusively imported. But if you’re hoping to avoid tariffs on your grocery bills, you have a few slim options to explore. AlbertsonsAmidst all the warnings of rising grocery prices, there’s been one hint of good news: Grocery giant Albertsons announced in late March that it wouldn’t tolerate automatic price increases from its suppliers due to tariffs. It’s explicitly framed as a policy designed to keep prices at their current levels. That doesn’t mean there won’t be any price increases—Albertsons clarified that it would take increases under consideration, but its suppliers would have to basically apply to raise their prices, and the company would consider whether to grant the request. But Albertsons already sources about 90% of its products domestically (though this doesn’t mean ingredients or other components that might be affected by tariffs aren’t included in those domestic products), so this policy could have some real impact on prices. The good news here is that Albertsons is huge. They operate more than 20 supermarket chains, including Safeway, Acme, Carrs, and Balducci's Food Lovers Market—a total of more than 2,200 stores across the country. You can see a full list of chains owned by Albertsons here to see if there are locations near you. Other strategiesIf you’re not close to an Albertsons store and are still determined to void tariffs as much as possible, you have few other options: Shop local. Buying as many groceries from farmer’s markets and other direct sources will avoid most tariff price increases, though farmer’s markets tend to be slightly more expensive than grocery stores in the first place, so you might not save that much money by going that route. Selective shopping. You can also continue to shop at your local supermarket but pay closer attention to the import status of the items you buy. While you probably won’t find much domestic coffee in your grocery store, there are many items that aren’t imported and thus should avoid most tariff-driven price increases. This can be laborious, and since domestically-made products can still suffer from tariffs if they include imported ingredients or packaging there’s no guarantee you’re evading higher prices by looking for a “made in the USA” designation. It’s going to be difficult to avoid tariff price increases unless you live near an Albertsons grocery store, at least for the time being. Until more grocery chains follow their lead (or Albertsons rescinds the policy under pressure from their suppliers) that’s your best bet for avoiding the tax. View the full article

A reader writes: Over the past year, I have been coaching my employee, “Mike,” on various performance issues and it has gotten to the point that we need a formal performance improvement plan. I don’t think this should be a surprise to him, but I’m getting the impression that he does not really understand how serious it is. We have very different communication styles. I prefer to be direct and detailed. Mike tends to use generalizations and can take a long time to think and gather his thoughts before answering a question. I’ve been working on softening my approach and asking clarifying questions to make sure we are on the same page, but things still get lost in translation sometimes. I have a great manager who is working with me on the PIP and helping to coach Mike. She is incredibly encouraging and took the lead on the conversation to let him know we were going to make a plan. The thing is, I’m worried that he only heard that we want to work with him to get him whatever tools he needs to be more organized and additional training. I have not noticed any improvement or efforts to find solutions from Mike, and I don’t want him to feel blindsided and shut down when we deliver the actual plan and deadlines. Are these conversations usually positive? I was expecting to go back over where his performance is falling short and ask what would help him so we can set up an achievable plan. Should I check in with him or just wait? I answer this question — and two others — over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. Other questions I’m answering there today include: Job candidate didn’t turn his camera on Do I really need to take calls from work on my honeymoon? The post will my employee be blindsided by an improvement plan? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The latest TikTok trend is leading to fire evacuations at schools across Connecticut. As part of the trend, students are filming themselves inserting items such as pencils, paper clips, and push pins into the charging ports of their school Chromebooks to set them on fire. Why? For a laugh and a brief break from schoolwork. One such “tutorial” gained 1.5 million views on TikTok before being removed, showing a student pushing a lead pencil into the back left corner of the port. “You might have to wiggle it a bit,” the user explained. Another student tried to film a “how-to” video last week, managing to cause a laptop fire and triggering an evacuation at Newington High School, as reported by WDBJ7. Since Monday, both Derby High School and Cromwell High School have experienced similar incidents. “On Thursday, I was alerted by both my director of security and high school principal that we had a Chromebook that was smoking,” Maureen Brummett, superintendent of Newington Public Schools, told NBC Connecticut. She further explained that after an investigation, it was clear that the damage to the laptop was “done intentionally” rather than being a result of a malfunction, and that students would be held accountable for replacing the school equipment. “Chromebooks are expensive and they’re going up in price, so when a student does intentionally destroy a Chromebook, it’s their responsibility to replace it. We have an insurance program, but it’s not covering intentional damage,” she added. DJ Zordon, a Newington fire marshal, described arriving at the scene to find a room filled with smoke. “We did see video from students… and that’s one of the biggest things. The batteries that are essentially catching on fire, once they burn, they’re producing this toxic smoke,” Zordon told NBC Connecticut. For those thinking about participating in the trend, the consequences go beyond just a damaged Chromebook. “The school has to be evacuated, firefighters respond to the firehouse and subsequently to the scene, and it takes resources away from any other emergencies that might be happening at that time,” Zordon added. While no injuries have been reported, when batteries like those in laptops catch fire, there is a risk of explosion, which could lead to burns or injury from flying shrapnel. Investigations are ongoing across the schools, and warnings have been issued to students and their families. Maybe this is one trend to skip. View the full article

Unlike Middle Eastern kingdoms, the US is a debtor nationView the full article

When I asked experts for their #1 PPC tip for beginners (see my introduction to search ads), many said it’s smart to focus on keywords that are less popular, more specific, and cheaper. This guide will help you find those…Read more ›View the full article

LinkedIn just released its 2025 Grad Guide highlighting the fastest-growing cities, industries, and job titles for new workers with and without a bachelor’s degree. A variety of industries and professions made the list. However, the new data offers a few surprises when it comes to what grads and non-grads are pursuing most often, with many non-grads heading into careers that once required college degrees—and many graduates in fields that don’t. When it comes to where young professionals are moving post-college, the Sun Belt states, including Tucson, Dallas, Tulsa, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, are turning into hot locations for new graduates to get to work. Entry-level non-grads are heading to big cities more often. San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, New York, Boston, Miami, and D.C. all made the list. But so did a few smaller hubs like Detroit and Orlando. Entry-level workers without a degree joining a variety of industries, with the fastest-growing fields being customer service, education, and real estate. Notably, financial services, a field which has typically required a college degree, is also on the list, meaning young professionals are breaking into the field in other ways that don’t involve four years of formal education. Marketing seems to be hugely popular for non-grads, too. It shows up three times on the list of the fastest-growing entry-level jobs, meaning marketing skills can be learned outside of a four-year college—perhaps by tech-savvy Gen Zers leaning into skills they learned by coming of age with social media at their fingertips. Non-grads are more frequently becoming marketing specialists, social media marketing specialists, and marketing coordinators. College grads are also joining a variety of industries, including in fields that don’t traditionally require a college degree. Case in point: Number one on the list of fastest-growing fields is construction. Real estate, utilities, wholesale, and administrative services were all growing fields for college graduates, too. Perhaps least surprisingly, new grads are leaning into technology, with artificial intelligence engineers landing as the fastest-growing job on the list. View the full article