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The President is promising big announcements on housing affordability issues in Switzerland, but will it include ending the GSE conservatorships? View the full article

AGGRESSION carries a negative connotation. It’s often described as an attribute of anger and a lead-in to violent behavior. But aggression can also be equated with the tenacity with which someone goes after their goals. In this sense, it describes somebody who pursues their goal with great passion, enthusiasm, or intensity. An example may be a young executive, in the process of trying to impress her bosses, who utilizes unconventional tactics to increase her clientele. Her increased status leads clients of one of her coworkers to transfer to her accounts. While her goal had been to increase her sales, she had no intention of hurting her colleague. But nonetheless her coworker clearly was, even though hurting someone wasn’t the goal. Such tactics are often the case with people who become successful. Aggression has been shown repeatedly as paving the way for success. Aggression is the tenacity with which someone goes after their goals. Aggressiveness, which is the adverb describing behavior, captures this best. While there have been misunderstandings when we describe someone as aggressive, people mistakenly think that it means that they're violent. In fact, there are two main types of aggression: instrumental aggression and reactive aggression. Instrumental aggression is when somebody is pursuing their goal with great passion, enthusiasm or intensity, in order to increase the likelihood of achieving that goal. A secondary consequence of that behavior may be to harm someone, but it is not the goal. For example, a basketball player is heading to the hoop in order to score. In the process of driving the lane, they accidentally elbow an opponent in the face. There is no denying that the other player got hurt, but that was not the goal. The goal was to put the ball in the hoop. Just as the young executive whose tactics ended up stealing her coworker’s clients, people who rely on instrumental aggression can hurt others even though it wasn’t their intention. Compare this to the second form of aggression — reactive aggression. It describes behavior that has as its primary and sometimes solitary goal to do harm to someone. Reactive aggression is related to anger and often is the behavior that leads people to get into trouble. It usually appears in response to a perceived injustice, insult, or wrongdoing. A sports example of reactive aggression would be an offensive lineman trash talking a defensive lineman about his mother, saying obscene things. Furious, the defensive lineman gets up and smacks the offensive lineman in the helmet, incurring a 15-yard penalty and being ejected from the game. Note, this was in reaction to a provocation — that’s why it’s called reactive aggression. So, instrumental aggression paves the way for success, while reactive aggression paves the way for trouble. Why? People, especially men, are very sensitive to issues of power. If you can provoke somebody to fight, you control them. If you’re someone who wears your emotional buttons on your sleeve, you can be easily provoked and will often engage in reactive aggression. You’re also someone who gives your power away all the time. Think about it like this: real power is like being Teflon: nothing sticks to you and nothing breaks you. Let nearly everything roll off. Allow the things that stick to be worth it — which means: don't waste energy or emotion being easily provoked. It's just not worth it and can be really costly emotionally or materially. In short, aggression can work for you or against you. If you tenaciously go after your goals, as in engaging in instrumental aggression, you are likely to achieve success. The only caveat is you need to be aware of the price you may pay for quashing others along the way. On the other hand, if you have a hard time keeping your reactive aggression in check, you’re unlikely to get ahead. You’ll need to get better at seeing what and who matters, and what and who you have the delicious privilege of completely ignoring. * * * Mitch Abrams has a private practice providing sport, clinical, and forensic psychology services, and is also an expert in the treatment of trauma. Since 2000, he has worked inside the prison system in New Jersey and now provides psychological services for seven of the state’s prisons. He is also an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at Rutgers University. Abrams is the Founder and CEO of Learned Excellence for Athletes, utilizing anger management training to assist high achievers to reach peak performance. His new book is I’m Not F*ing Angry!!! Adjust the Flames to Get What You Want and Need. Learn more at drmitchabrams.com. * * * Follow us on Instagram and X for additional leadership and personal development ideas. * * * View the full article

Below, Chris Bailey shares five key insights from his new book, Intentional: How to Finish What You Start. Chris is an author and lecturer who explores the science behind living a more productive and intentional life. He has written hundreds of articles on the subject and garnered coverage in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, GQ, and Harvard Business Review, among many other outlets. What’s the big idea? Most of us struggle with follow-through, not because we lack discipline, but because we don’t understand what’s driving us and accommodate that which holds us back. When you clarify your core values, lower the friction to getting started, and align small intentions with bigger goals, action becomes more natural and meaningful. Listen to the audio version of this Book Bite—read by Chris himself—below, or in the Next Big Idea App. 1. Know your 12 values. To be honest, whenever I’ve heard the term “values” in the past, I kind of tuned it out, especially with personal values. What would always come to mind for me were those cheesy corporate exercises where some management consultant comes in and lays down a list in front of you with a hundred values on it, and they say, “Pick the 10 that mean the most to you. ” Most of those are not rooted in science. They’re not rooted in the psychology of values. But in researching this book, I found that there is real science to be found on the topic of values. There exists science on values that has not only been proven in research but also validated cross-culturally in more than 80 countries across thousands of studies with hundreds of thousands of participants. The latest research shows that there are 12 fundamental human values that we all share in varying amounts. To give you a lay of the land, there are essentially two fundamental motivations we all have—two axes upon which our motivations fit within. In any moment, we’re either focused on enriching ourselves or enriching others. That’s the first axis. And the second one is we’re either motivated to conserve things as they are or we want to change or improve the way that things are. All 12 values fit within these fundamental motivations. Values are, in this way, motivations in and of themselves. As I list them, reflect on which connect most with you. Some might even repel you, and that can be informative as well. Here are the top 12 values: Self-direction – cultivating your own thoughts, ideas, and actions. Stimulation – seeking novelty. Hedonism – pursuing (usually sensory) pleasure. Achievement – striving for success through demonstrating competence. Power – prestige and control over resources or people. Face – preserving your image and avoiding humiliation. Security – valuing personal and societal safety and stability. Tradition – respect and commitment to customs. Conformity – fitting in with rules, obligations, and expectations of others. Humility – recognizing your insignificance in the grand scheme. Universalism – understanding and protecting the welfare of all people and nature. Benevolence – being a devoted and reliable member of the groups you occupy. We are all a different combination of these values. Reflecting on this can let you connect with your motivational core. 2. Shrink your resistance level to getting something done. The science of intention is quite beautiful and powerful, but it shows as well that there are reasons that we procrastinate on the things that we intend to do. Just as there are 12 values, there are essentially six main things that lead us to procrastinate tasks. We often procrastinate a task if it is at least one of the following: Boring Frustrating Unpleasant Far off in the future Unstructured Meaningless The reason for procrastination is usually some combination of these. These reasons are not connected with our 12 values. When something is unstructured and also a bit frustrating and unpleasant, there are a lot of different tactics that we can deploy. One of my favorites is shrinking our resistance level. This comes up often with meditation, but it can work for writing, working out, or finally cleaning up that ugly closet in your basement. What you do is essentially feel out your resistance level to doing that thing. You might think, “Hey, do I want to meditate for 40 minutes today?” No, no, no, no, no. No way. No way do I want to meditate for 40 minutes. Okay. What about 30? No. Okay. What about 25? No. 20 to 15? I can probably do 15. In this way, you accommodate the resistance level you have toward doing something. There will still be a little bit of resistance, but you gain control. You reconnect with that value of self-direction, which is a very common value overall. You just get a grip over the intentions that you set and begin to shape. 3. Build self-reflective capacity. Buddhist monks observe intentionality but from the direction of the causes and effects that happen within our own minds. After a Buddhist Dharma talk, I asked one of the monks, “Where does intention come from?” He listed off a lot of sources that were mapped on top of the research. It comes from our biology, right? We set an intention to go to the bathroom on a road trip. It comes from social environments, right? We adopt the intentions of others through phenomenon like social contagion. It comes from conditioning by family and culture, and intentions come from our desire to avoid pain and find happiness. Intention also comes from the lessons we have learned, which shape how we think about and view the world. But the final source that he mentioned was not in the research and it was our self-reflective capacity. Self-reflective capacity is our ability to look within ourselves and reflect on what we would want to do differently and where we truly wish to go. It’s where our deepest intentions come from because we can ask questions of our inner world. I have a challenge for you: stop reading for a moment, and set an intention for what you will do next after finishing this Book Bite. “It’s where our deepest intentions come from because we can ask questions of our inner world.” What do you want to do? What do you want to listen to? What do you want to engage with? Who do you want to talk to? An intention will arise when you ask a question of your inner world. What do I want to do next? What do I truly want to get out of doing this current thing? It can come from a question like that, but it can come from journaling too. These intentions can come from going on long walks and just letting the mind wander. It can come from meditation, which leads us to become more intentional and connect with this self-reflective capacity. It turns out there is actually a lot of research behind this self-reflective capacity, but this frame for looking inward is sometimes where our deepest intentions come from. When you find these intentions, when they arise in your mind, you can go back to the 12 values and think, “Oh, this actually does align with what I want to do most or what I value most in my life.” It’s wild how that naturally happens. 4. Get to know the intention stack. There is a shape to the intentions in our life. Every intention we set is different. Some differ in where they come from, as discussed in the previous insight. Some differ in how long they are—we have an intention to get a promotion in our career, but also an intention to take a morning run. They differ in how strong they are—the strength of an intention is how much we desire doing it. They vary in how deep they are, which is how connected they are with our values, but they can also be nested within one another. We all have these things that we’re intending to do, these grand goals that we want to achieve, but we don’t always make them happen. Why don’t we make those happen? Because goals are an intention. An intention is just a plan that we’re going to do something. There are smaller and larger intentions relative to the goals in our life. Smaller intentions might include our plans for following through on a goal. Even smaller still are the intentions we have at this moment, like finishing reading this Book Bite. You can work your way up in terms of how long the intentions in our life take place. We have the present intentions—the things that we’re doing today. We have broader plans, then you work your way up to goals, which are the broader stories of change that we’re making in our life. And broader than that are our priorities in life, like our health, fitness, and relationships. Above our priorities are (our ultimate intentions) our values. They’re what we’re ultimately after in life. “An intention is just a plan that we’re going to do something.” Let’s say you have a goal right now, like the next intention you’re going to do after this Book Bite: dial into a conference call. But many intentions take place over a longer period of time than this. Maybe dialing into a conference call fits with your plan of developing relationships with three new partners in your business, which might fit into your business goal of finding an expansion partner, which might fit into your priority to expand into a new market, which might fit into your ultimate value of accomplishment through work and benevolence through helping others grow, too. 5. Anticipate obstacles. Desire and aversion fluctuate over the timeline of goal attainment, across the various goals that we have. But research shows that from the outset of your next goal, one of the best things that you can do in your head is something called mental contrasting. Essentially, you ask yourself, what obstacles are going to get in the way of me achieving this goal? If you want to work out more, do you have travel coming up? If you want to write a book, are you going to find it difficult to find the time? So maybe you need to wake up earlier. What obstacles will get in the way of you being intentional about the goals that you set? Enjoy our full library of Book Bites—read by the authors!—in the Next Big Idea App. This article originally appeared in Next Big Idea Club magazine and is reprinted with permission. View the full article

It’s simple to accidentally become entranced by an endless loop of videos on Instagram or TikTok. But sometimes, that mindless scroll is interrupted by a reminder that what you thought was a 10-minute break spent on your phone was closer to 30 minutes. Olivia Yokubonis, armed with a kind voice and scientific research, often pops up in feeds on social platforms, gently reminding viewers that they might not remember the video they saw two videos before she appeared on the screen. Yokubonis is a content creator who goes by the name Olivia Unplugged online, making videos to combat overuse or mindless use of social media. For the most part, people who view her videos welcome the disruption from the endless loop of content, treating it as a wake-up call to get off their phones. Other times, they are snarky. “People will comment and they’ll be like, ’Oh, (it’s) ironic that you’re posting. And I’m like, ‘Where else am I supposed to find you, Kyle? Outside? You’re not outside. You are here, sitting here,’” she said. “For us to actually be seen, we have to be where people are.” Yokubonis’ content responds to the feeling many people have: that they spend too much time on social media or apps. “Most people have no clue how much time they spend on social media,” said Ofir Turel, a professor of information systems management at the University of Melbourne who has been studying social media use for years. Through his research, Turel found that when he presented people with their screen time information, they were practically “in a state of shock” and many people voluntarily reduced their usage afterwards. Yokubonis is part of a growing group of content creators who make videos encouraging viewers to close out the app they’re on. Some are aggressive in their approach, some more tame; some only occasionally post about social media overuse, and some, like Yokubonis, devote their accounts to it. She works for Opal, a screen time app designed to help users “reclaim their focus,” she said, but those who engage with her content might not have any idea she is working for the company. Brand logos, constant plugs to download the app and other signs of branding are almost entirely absent from her page. “People love hearing from people,” she said. Millions of views on her videos point to that being true. “It’s a fine line and a balance of finding a way to be able to cut through that noise but also not adding to the noise,” she added. Ian A. Anderson, a postdoctoral scholar at California Institute of Technology, said he finds this kind of content interesting, but is curious whether it’s disruptive enough to prompt action. He also said he wonders whether those with the strongest scrolling habits are “thoughtless about the way (they’re) intaking information.” “If they’re paying full attention, I feel like it could be an effective disruption, but I also think there is a degree to which, if you are really a habitual scroller, maybe you aren’t fully engaging with it,” he said. “I can think of all sorts of different variables that could change the effectiveness, but it does sound like an interesting way to intervene from the inside.” With billions of active users across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media platforms, talk of cutting down on screen time is perennial, as is the idea of addiction to social platforms. But there’s tremendous disagreement over whether social media addiction actually exists. Is social media “addiction” real? Researchers, psychologists and other experts agree some people spend too much time on social media, but the agreement tends to stop there. Some researchers question whether addiction is the appropriate term to describe heavy use of social media, arguing that a person must be experiencing identifiable symptoms, like strong, sometimes uncontrollable urges and withdrawal, to qualify as addiction. Others, like Turel, acknowledge the term seems to resonate with more people and is often used colloquially. Anderson said he recognized the prevalence of casual mentions of being addicted to phones and was curious to see if that talk was “benign.” A recent study of his suggests the debate extends further than academic discourse. In a representative sample of active Instagram users, Anderson found that people often overestimate whether they are “addicted” to the app. On a self-report scale, 18% of participants agreed that they were at least somewhat addicted to Instagram and 5% indicated substantial agreement, but only 2% of participants were deemed at risk of addiction based on their symptoms. Believing you are addicted also impacts how you address that issue, Anderson said. “If you perceive yourself as more addicted, it actually hurts your ability to control your use or your perception of that ability and makes you kind of blame yourself more for overuse,” Anderson said. “There are these negative consequences to addiction perception.” Cutting down on screen time For those looking to curb their social media habits, Anderson suggests making small, meaningful, changes to stop from opening your social media app of choice. Moving the app’s place on your phone or turning off notifications are “light touch interventions,” but more involved options, like not bringing your phone into the bedroom — or other places where you often use it — could also help. Plenty of intervention methods have been offered to consumers in the form of products or services. But those interventions require self-awareness and a desire to cut down on use. Content creators who infiltrate social media feeds with information about the psychology behind why people scroll for hours a day can plant those early seeds. Cat Goetze, who goes by CatGPT online, makes “non-pretentious, non-patronizing” content about artificial intelligence, building off her experience in the tech industry. But she’s also been on a lengthy road to cut down her own screen time. She often makes videos about why the platforms are so compelling and why we tend to spend longer than we anticipate on them. “There’s a whole infrastructure — there’s an army of nerds whose only job is to get you to increase your time spent on that platform,” she said. “There’s a whole machine that’s trying to get you to be that way and it’s not your fault and you’re not going to win this just (through) willpower.” Goetze also founded the business Physical Phones, which makes Bluetooth landline phones that connect to smartphones, encouraging people to spend less time on their devices. The inside of the packaging reads “offline is the new luxury.” She was able to build the business at an accelerated pace thanks to her social media audience. But the early success of Physical Phones also demonstrates the demand for solutions to high screen time, she said. “Social media will always play a part in our lives. I don’t necessarily think that’s a bad thing. If we can get the average screen time down from, if it’s 10 hours for a person to one hour, or from three hours to 30 minutes, that is going to be a net positive benefit for that individual and for society,” Goetze said. “That being said, I’d love to be the person that they’re watching for those 30 minutes.” —Kaitlyn Huamani, AP technology writer View the full article

Verizon had a massive outage last week, leaving roughly two million customers unable to use their phones off of wifi or SOS mode for nearly a day. As an apology for the inconvenience, the company promised to refund those affected a meager $20 to their accounts—so naturally, scammers quickly got a phishing scheme up and running targeting people eligible for the credit. As reported by Android Authority, the Jones County Sheriff's Office in Georgia has issued an alert about fake Verizon "credit" messages floating around. Verizon credit phishing scamAccording to the sheriff's office, scammers may contact you via text or email—claiming to be from Verizon—with information about the outage credit. These messages contain phishing links, which may be set up to collect personal information or account credentials or deliver malware to your device. Clicking through will likely compromise your data in some way, especially if you enter any details on a malicious website. If you are a Verizon customer who was affected by the outage, you will receive a text letting you know that your $20 credit is available to claim in the myVerizon app, which is why you may not be immediately suspicious of the scam. Plus, since you do need to claim the funds, you may be swayed by a message that sounds urgent. Don't fall for it. In general, you shouldn't click links in unsolicited communication, and you should be suspicious of any messages that prompt you to click said links, even if they appear to be from a legitimate company about a legitimate matter. As evidenced by this phishing campaign and those like it, scammers can and will impersonate trusted brands and use real events to seem more believable. Instead, always navigate directly to the app or official website—type in the URL and check it carefully or go through your password manager—and log in using your account credentials. Once logged in, you can see any legitimate communication and take action securely. Know that scammers can easily spoof websites, so if you click a phishing link, you may not realize that you're on a fake page. View the full article

The state of Indiana is no stranger to underdog stories. Hoosiers and Rudy, two of the most iconic underdog sports films ever made, both take place in the state, and both are based on true stories. Hoosier nation now has a trilogy. Indiana University’s football team had been a Big Ten doormat for as long as the conference had existed. Then, athletic director Scott Dolson hired Curt Cignetti as head coach, and Cignetti embarked on the greatest turnaround story in modern college sports. In just his second season, he led the Hoosiers to their first-ever national championship, defeating the University of Miami Hurricanes, 27-21, on Monday night, and completing a perfect season that nobody saw coming. Well, except for Cignetti himself. It took more than just one person, but Cignetti was the catalyst that eventually catapulted IU to the top of the sport. Here’s a look at some key numbers from an unforgettable Hoosiers season. 16-0 Indiana became the first major college football team to go 16-0 in a single season since Yale in 1894. The caveat being that those Bulldogs didn’t play all 16 games against other colleges, mixing in a few games against “athletic clubs.” $93 million Cignetti has signed three different contracts with Indiana: his initial contract in November 2023, an extension worth $8 million per year in November 2024, and then a behemoth extension worth nearly $93 million over eight years in October 2025. 3 Through that last contract, Cignetti is entitled to a good-faith market review and renegotiation that makes him no less than the third-highest-paid Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) coach should the Hoosiers make it to the College Football Playoff semifinal. Thanks to Coach Lane Kiffin’s contract at LSU, Cignetti will be due for another raise shortly. 5 Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza became just the fifth quarterback in the last 75 years to win the Heisman Trophy while leading his team to an undefeated national championship. He joins Joe Burrow (Louisiana State University, 2019), Jameis Winston (Florida State University, 2013), Cam Newton (Auburn University, 2010), and Matt Leinart (University of Southern California, 2004) in that club. Mendoza currently has -8000 odds to join Burrow, Winston, and Newton as the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. 12 Mendoza’s 12-yard touchdown run on fourth down and five, with just under 10 minutes to play, is the most memorable play from the game. The Hoosiers dialed up a designed quarterback run, and the Miami native made a juke move to gain the first down, then powered through multiple would-be tacklers to dive over the goal line for the score. 715 Entering the 2025 season, Indiana’s 715 all-time losses were the most by any program in major college football. Conference foe Northwestern lost its 716th game against USC on November 7, taking the dubious honor from the Hoosiers. 2.5 Indiana’s football budget increased more than 2.5-fold from 2021 to 2024, when it was last reported at just over $61 million. That figure likely climbed even more from 2024 to 2025, with the Hoosiers going all in on Cignetti. The 2024 mark was the first time since at least 2005 that IU has exceeded the median Big Ten football budget. 24 Indiana University is not a stranger to winning national championships, football notwithstanding. The Hoosiers have won 24 NCAA team championships across six different sports, including five in men’s basketball. The last NCAA Championship that IU won was for men’s soccer in 2012, when it defeated Georgetown University. .798 Curt Cignetti’s winning percentage as a head college football coach ranks among the most impressive in the country. Between Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Elon, James Madison (in both FCS and FBS), and now, Indiana, he’s won 146 of his 183 games. Nick Saban—widely regarded as the greatest college football coach ever—won just a shade over 80% of his games. It’s not the highest mark of all time (Mount Union legend Vince Kehres won over 92% of his games in Division III)—or even in his own conference (Ohio State’s Ryan Day has won 87% of his games)—but considering the circumstances, Cignetti keeps pretty special company. He wins. Google him. +10,000 Per Sportsoddshistory.com, Indiana had +10,000 odds to win the national championship in the preseason. No other national champion dating back to the start of the database (2001) had preseason odds longer than +5000. The Hoosiers had the same odds as Florida State, which went 5-7, Nebraska, which went 7-6, and USC, which went 9-4. $10.90 The amount Cignetti spends every day on his Chipotle Burrito Bowl for his lunch in the office. Chicken, beans, rice, and a side of guac. View the full article

Hostinger analyzed 66.7B bot requests across 5M+ hosted sites and found AI training crawlers are blocked more often, while OpenAI’s search bot expands. The post OpenAI Search Crawler Passes 55% Coverage In Hostinger Study appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

HR outsourcing is when businesses hire external providers to handle various human resource functions. This allows you to focus on core activities during accessing specialized expertise. By outsourcing tasks like payroll and recruitment, you can save time and reduce costs, with small businesses often seeing savings around 34%. Comprehending how HR outsourcing works and its implications for your organization is essential. Let’s explore the specific benefits and considerations that come with this approach. Key Takeaways HR outsourcing involves contracting external providers for HR functions, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations and benefit from specialized expertise. Businesses can achieve significant cost savings, with small companies often reporting reductions in HR administration expenses by up to 34%. Outsourcing frees up to 43% more time for HR professionals, enabling them to concentrate on strategic initiatives and improve overall business performance. Access to competitive employee benefits through outsourcing helps attract and retain top talent, enhancing workforce quality. Effective HR outsourcing mitigates compliance risks and penalties, ensuring businesses adhere to regulations while streamlining HR processes. Understanding HR Outsourcing Grasping HR outsourcing (HRO) is vital for businesses looking to optimize their human resources operations. HR outsourcing involves contracting third-party providers to manage various HR functions, enabling you to focus on core business activities and leveraging specialized expertise. This approach is particularly beneficial for small and mid-sized companies that may lack extensive in-house HR resources. Commonly outsourced human resources tasks include payroll processing, employee benefits administration, recruiting, and compliance management. By outsourcing these functions, you can markedly reduce operational costs and improve efficiency. Importantly, 34% of business leaders report decreased HR administration expenses through outsourcing, whereas 51% experience fewer errors in HR administration. Consequently, comprehending the benefits of outsourcing HR can be vital for enhancing overall organizational effectiveness and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Key Benefits of HR Outsourcing When you consider HR outsourcing, you’ll find key benefits that can greatly improve your business operations. It not only enhances cost efficiency by reducing operational expenses but additionally grants you access to specialized expertise that may not be available in-house. Cost Efficiency Improvements HR outsourcing offers several cost efficiency improvements that can greatly benefit businesses of all sizes. By outsourcing HR functions, you can reduce operational costs considerably—many small businesses report average savings of 34%. This shift frees up to 43% more time for your HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives, enhancing productivity. Moreover, utilizing outsourced HR services often grants access to competitive employee benefits, allowing your organization to attract top talent without high costs. Notably, outsourcing likewise helps you avoid compliance penalties linked to DIY HR management, reducing the risk of costly legal issues. Partnering with the best HR outsourcing companies can lead to lower administration expenses, further demonstrating the financial efficacy of these services. Access to Expertise Accessing specialized HR expertise through outsourcing can greatly improve your organization’s ability to navigate complex employment laws and compliance requirements. By partnering with outsourced HR providers, you benefit from their extensive knowledge, which boosts compliance management by 32%. Outsourcing ADP human resources companies can help minimize administrative errors, as 51% of leaders report fewer mistakes when HR functions are outsourced. This access to expert resources enables you to implement industry best practices, driving improvements in HR processes and overall effectiveness. Moreover, outsourcing in human resource management allows you to leverage advanced technologies that may be too costly to develop in-house. In the end, this expertise aids in attracting and retaining top talent, improving employee engagement, and reducing turnover rates. How HR Outsourcing Works Grasping how HR outsourcing works is crucial for businesses considering this option. It typically involves a structured process where you partner with a third-party provider to handle specific HR functions, allowing you to focus on your core operations. Various service delivery models exist, and the cost structure can vary based on the services you choose and the size of your organization, making it important to evaluate your needs carefully. Process Overview When businesses decide to outsource their HR functions, they typically begin by identifying their specific needs and determining which tasks they want to delegate. This process often involves evaluating internal capabilities and appraising whether a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) or an Administrative Services Organization (ASO) is the right fit. After selecting a provider, you’ll sign a contractual agreement outlining the services to be offered, such as payroll management, compliance assistance, or employee training. Implementing HR outsourcing can lead to significant cost reductions; over 34% of business leaders report lower administrative expenses after outsourcing. With more than 200,000 U.S. businesses utilizing PEOs, this trend showcases the effectiveness of outsourcing in streamlining operations and accessing specialized expertise. Service Delivery Models HR outsourcing operates through various service delivery models that cater to distinct business needs, primarily through Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) and Administrative Services Organizations (ASOs). PEOs share payroll, tax responsibilities, and employee benefits, making them ideal for businesses seeking extensive HR support. Conversely, ASOs manage specific HR tasks like payroll and compliance without offering benefits, providing flexibility for businesses needing targeted assistance. Here are three key aspects to take into account: Co-Employment Model: PEOs involve shared responsibilities, ideal for extensive support. Targeted Services: ASOs focus on specific HR tasks, allowing customized assistance. Business Needs: Your choice depends on the desired level of control and specific services required. Cost Structure Explained Cost structures for HR outsourcing are designed to provide flexibility and financial efficiency customized to a business’s unique needs. Typically, these structures include a fixed fee per employee or a percentage of total payroll, allowing you to select the model that fits your budget. Many small and medium-sized businesses report a 34% decrease in operational costs after outsourcing HR tasks, showcasing the financial advantages. Furthermore, outsourcing helps reduce administration expenses, with over 200,000 U.S. businesses using Professional Employer Organizations (PEO) services for increased efficiency. Cost savings likewise stem from avoiding compliance penalties that can arise from managing HR in-house without specialized expertise. The HR outsourcing market is projected to exceed $31 billion by 2030, reflecting its growing recognition. Common HR Functions That Can Be Outsourced Outsourcing certain HR functions can greatly improve operational efficiency and accuracy for businesses of all sizes. By leveraging specialized expertise, you can streamline various HR processes that are often time-consuming and complex. Here are three common HR functions that can be effectively outsourced: Payroll Processing: This reduces administrative burdens and boosts accuracy, with many organizations reporting fewer mistakes after outsourcing payroll. Recruitment and Talent Acquisition: Outsourcing these processes can speed up hiring times and improve sourcing efficiency, as providers often offer full-cycle recruiting services. Employee Benefits Administration: Accessing competitive benefits packages through outsourcing can help enhance employee retention and satisfaction, especially for smaller businesses. Cost Considerations for HR Outsourcing Managing HR functions can strain a business’s budget, especially for smaller organizations. By outsourcing HR, you can reduce operational costs considerably—up to 34% for small businesses. Many companies report decreased HR administration expenses after outsourcing, with over 200,000 U.S. businesses currently benefiting from PEO services. Additionally, outsourcing often eliminates compliance penalties linked to DIY HR management, saving you from potential fines. Here’s a quick breakdown of cost considerations: Pricing Model Description Potential Savings Fixed Fee per Employee A set amount charged per employee Predictable budgeting Percentage of Payroll A fee based on a percentage of total payroll Scales with your business Flat Monthly Fee A consistent monthly charge for services Simplifies financial planning With flexible pricing options, you can choose the most economical approach to meet your business needs during access to expert HR services. Potential Disadvantages of HR Outsourcing Even though many organizations seek the advantages of HR outsourcing, there are potential disadvantages that must be considered. Here are three key concerns you should keep in mind: Errors and Delays: Off-site management can introduce errors that may take longer to fix, disrupting your internal processes. Cultural Misalignment: If the outsourcing provider doesn’t understand your company culture, initial recruitment efforts can suffer, leading to mismatched hires that affect team dynamics. Cost Concerns: In some cases, outsourcing mightn’t yield the expected savings, especially if the provider’s services exceed your budget. Additionally, security concerns regarding sensitive employee data can arise, necessitating a thorough review of the provider’s cybersecurity measures. These potential drawbacks highlight the importance of careful consideration before moving forward with HR outsourcing, ensuring it aligns with your organizational needs and values. Choosing the Right HR Outsourcing Partner How can you guarantee that you choose the right HR outsourcing partner for your business? Start by evaluating their certifications, such as CPEO and ESAC, which demonstrate compliance and reliability in HR services. Look into their client retention rates and cultural accolades, as these indicators reflect their effectiveness in maintaining satisfied partnerships and nurturing diverse workplace environments. Make sure the provider offers a thorough suite of services customized to your specific HR needs, including recruitment, payroll, benefits administration, and compliance support. Furthermore, consider the outsourcing partner’s technology capabilities; advanced HR technology solutions can improve operations and enhance the employee experience. Finally, establish clear communication and service level agreements (SLAs) to define expectations, performance metrics, and accountability in service delivery. The Role of Technology in HR Outsourcing As businesses increasingly turn to HR outsourcing, the role of technology becomes vital in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of HR functions. Leveraging advanced technology platforms allows outsourcing providers to streamline processes and improve overall operations. Here are three key benefits of technology in HR outsourcing: Real-Time Analytics: Access to real-time data helps you make informed, data-driven decisions and track performance metrics effectively. Automation: Automating HR tasks reduces administrative burdens, freeing your internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business growth. Enterprise-Class Tools: Smaller businesses can now access advanced HR technology that was once too costly, giving them a competitive edge in attracting top talent. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Benefits of Outsourcing HR? Outsourcing HR offers several benefits for your business. You can reduce operational costs, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively. By leveraging external expertise, compliance management improves, lowering legal risks. You’ll boost productivity, as your internal team can focus on strategic initiatives rather than administrative tasks. Moreover, access to competitive employee benefits improves talent retention, making your organization more attractive to potential hires and enhancing overall employee engagement. What Is HR Outsourcing? HR outsourcing involves hiring an external provider to handle specific human resource functions, such as payroll, recruitment, and compliance management. By outsourcing these tasks, you can focus on your core business operations while accessing specialized expertise and technology. This approach can lead to significant cost savings, improved efficiency, and better compliance with labor laws. It’s particularly beneficial for small to mid-sized businesses looking to streamline HR processes and reduce administrative burdens. How Does Outsourcing Benefit a Business? Outsourcing HR can greatly benefit your business by reducing operational costs and freeing up valuable time for your team. By delegating tasks like payroll and benefits administration, you allow your employees to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth. Furthermore, accessing specialized expertise improves compliance with labor laws, boosts employee engagement, and can lead to better talent retention. How Do Human Resources Benefit a Business? Human resources benefit your business by optimizing processes like recruitment, payroll, and employee training. With effective HR, you streamline operations, ensuring compliance with labor laws while enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. HR likewise provides valuable insights through data analytics, which helps you track performance and make informed decisions. Conclusion In conclusion, HR outsourcing can greatly improve your business’s efficiency by allowing you to focus on core activities while leveraging specialized expertise. By outsourcing functions like payroll and recruitment, you can reduce operational costs and improve overall effectiveness. Nevertheless, it’s essential to evaluate potential drawbacks and choose the right partner. With the proper approach and technology, HR outsourcing can be a strategic move that drives your organization forward while ensuring compliance and quality in human resource management. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Is HR Outsourcing and How Can It Benefit Your Business?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Netflix exceeded Wall Street’s revenue estimates for its holiday quarter, as it crossed 325 million subscribers, the company said on Tuesday. Revenue came in at $12.1 billion for October through December—topping forecasts of $11.97 billion for the quarter, according to analysts surveyed by LSEG. Nielsen reported that Netflix’s monthly viewership rose 10% in December, thanks largely to the final season of hit sci-fi series “Stranger Things,” which generated 15 billion viewing minutes. Netflix also streamed two National Football League games on Christmas Day and released a third film in the “Knives Out” murder mystery series. Investors remain focused on Netflix’s $82.7 billion pursuit of Warner Bros Discovery’s studio and other entertainment assets, as it seeks to fend off a hostile bid from Paramount Skydance. Netflix amended its merger agreement to an all-cash offer for the film and television studios, its extensive content library, and major entertainment franchises, including “Game of Thrones,” “Harry Potter,” and DC Comics’ superheroes like Batman and Superman. “Our revised all-cash agreement will enable an expedited timeline to a stockholder vote and provide greater financial certainty,” Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos said in a statement accompanying Tuesday’s amended bid. In its note to investors, Netflix said the Warner Bros acquisition will provide it with an even broader and higher-quality selection of movies and shows for its subscribers, while it will be able to offer more personalized, flexible subscription offers with the addition of HBO Max. The company said it obtained commitments for a $59 billion bridge loan on December 4 to support the Warner acquisition. On Monday, it increased the bridge loan commitment by $8.2 billion to support its all-cash $27.75 per share offer. In financial results, Netflix reported adjusted per-share earnings of 56 cents for the fourth quarter ended in December, slightly above estimates of 55 cents per share. Netflix forecasts continued growth in 2026, with revenue of $50.7 billion to $51.7 billion. Ad revenue is expected to roughly double, Netflix said. —Dawn Chmielewski and Lisa Richwine, Reuters View the full article

When OpenAI first announced GPT-5.2 last month, it quietly disclosed a new safety feature it called "age prediction." Considering ChatGPT proper isn't exactly an "all ages" kind of tool, it makes sense that users under the age of 18 should have protections in place to shield them from harmful content. The company says that users who indicate they're under 18 already receive an altered experience to "reduce exposure to sensitive or potentially harmful content," but if the user doesn't voluntarily share how old they are with OpenAI, how does the company enforce these protections? Here's where age prediction comes in. How age prediction for ChatGPT worksOn Tuesday, OpenAI officially announced its new age prediction policy, which, like other age verification systems being used by the likes of Roblox, uses AI to guess how old a user is. If the system decides that a particular user is under the age of 18, OpenAI will adjust the experience accordingly, with the goal of keeping all interactions age-appropriate. Here's how it works: The new age prediction model looks at both the user's behaviors within the app, as well as the general account data. That includes things like how old the account is, what times of day the user is accessing ChatGPT, usage patterns, as well as, of course, the age the user says they are. Looking at all this data, the model determines how old the user likely is. If the model thinks they're over 18, they'll get the full experience; if the model thinks they're under 18, they'll get the "safer experience." If the model isn't confident, it defaults to that safer experience. What's restricted in the "safer" version of ChatGPTThat limited experience means that someone the model thinks is under 18 will try to reduce the following content types: Graphic violence or gore Viral challenges that might inspire "risky or harmful behaviors" Role play that is sexual, romantic, or violent in nature Self-harm descriptions Content promoting "extreme" beauty standards, unhealthy dieting, or body shaming The company says that its approach is informed by "expert input" as well as literature discussing child development science. (It's not clear whether how much of that input is from direct interviews and coordination with experts, and how much, if any, is from independent research.) The company also acknowledges "known teen differences in risk perception, impulse control, peer influence, and emotional regulation" when compared to adults. AI isn't always great at age predictionThe biggest risk with any of these age prediction models is that they'll sometimes get it wrong—hallucination is an unfortunate habit AI models all share. That goes both ways: You don't want someone too young accessing inappropriate content in ChatGPT, but you also don't want someone older than 18 getting stuck with a limited account for no reason. If you experience the latter situation, OpenAI has a solution for you: direct age verification through Persona. This is the same third-party Roblox uses for its age verification, which hasn't gone very well thus far. That doesn't necessarily spell doom for OpenAI. Roblox tried overhauling their age verification system for a massive user base all used to a certain type of multiplayer experience, which led to users not being able to chat with other users in newly-assigned age categories, which were often incorrect. Meanwhile, ChatGPT's age prediction is only controlling the experience of one user at a time. To that end, OpenAI will let you upload a selfie as an added verification step if the prediction model alone isn't enough. Interestingly, OpenAI doesn't say anything about the option to upload an ID for verification, which other companies, like Google, have provided. I'm not necessarily a fan of age prediction models, as I think they often sacrifice user privacy in the name of creating age-appropriate experiences. But there's little doubt that OpenAI has to do something to limit the full ChatGPT experience for younger users. Many of ChatGPT's users are under 18, and much of the content they experience is wildly inappropriate, whether it be instructions on getting high, or advice on writing suicide notes. In some tragic cases, minors have taken their own lives after discussions with ChatGPT, leading to lawsuits against OpenAI. I don't have any great answers here. We'll just have to see how this new age prediction model affects the user experience for minors and adults alike, and whether it actually manages to create a safer experience for younger, more impressionable users. View the full article

Streaming giant says it makes up a relatively low share of US ‘TV time’ in quarterly letter to shareholders View the full article

Below, Chris Duffy shares five key insights from his new book, Humor Me: How Laughing More Can Make You Present, Creative, Connected, and Happy. Chris is a comedian, television writer, and the host of TED’s award-winning How to Be a Better Human podcast. Chris wrote for both seasons of Wyatt Cenac’s Problem Areas on HBO, executive-produced by John Oliver. He is both a former fifth-grade teacher and a former fifth-grade student. What’s the big idea? Humor isn’t just about being funny. When we notice, share, and even save the small absurdities of everyday life, laughter can make us more relatable, more curious, and better able to connect, think, and work together. Listen to the audio version of this Book Bite—read by Chris himself—below, or in the Next Big Idea App. 1. People like you more if you’re a little bit of a mess. Many of us spend so much energy and stress trying to get things to be perfect. I know I do. I’ve wasted countless hours trying to hide my flaws from other people, especially strangers. But it turns out that not only is that a battle I’m never going to win, but it’s counterproductive. One of my favorite studies had study subjects rate potential job candidates (who were secretly in on the experiment). When asked to rate high-performing candidates and average candidates, study participants preferred the high performers. No surprise there. But the highest-rated candidates of all were the high performers who had also just spilled coffee all over themselves before walking in the door. In other words, we want you to be able to do your job, but we don’t mind if you’re kind of a mess. In fact, we prefer it! You’re relatable. Now, I’m not suggesting that you dump scalding hot coffee on yourself before your next high-stakes interview. But I am suggesting that being willing to openly acknowledge and laugh at your flaws and imperfections won’t undermine your success, it will enhance it. Nobody likes a perfect goody two-shoes; everyone loves a person who’s a bit of a mess but trying their best. 2. Looking for laughs can lead to big, serious ideas. Millions of people are alive today because of the discovery of penicillin. But when Alexander Fleming walked into the lab and saw penicillin for the first time, he didn’t shout “Eureka!” Instead, he walked up to a dirty petri dish that had been left out overnight and said, “That’s funny,” before taking a culture of the mold. The idea of seeing something odd and funny and then investigating it has led to many breakthroughs. In fact, every year, hundreds of the world’s most brilliant thinkers converge in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for the Ig Nobel Prizes. If you’re not already familiar with the Ig Nobels, they’re a lot like the Nobel Prizes. But instead of recognizing the most world-changing achievements in physics, chemistry, and peace, the Ig Nobels recognize the most hilarious discoveries of the year. Their slogan is “Research that makes people laugh, then think.” “The idea of seeing something odd and funny and then investigating it has led to many breakthroughs.” The winners are people who have published papers on things like constipated scorpions or what happens if you use a crash test dummy that’s shaped like a moose. An international team won the Ig Nobel Prize in Literature for studying the sensations people feel “when they repeat a single word many, many, many, many, many, many, many times.” Or Georgia Tech scientists were awarded the Ig Nobel Prize in Physics for discovering a “universal urination duration.” Using fluid dynamics, they demonstrated that all mammals weighing over three kilograms take about twenty-one seconds to completely empty a full bladder.” So why would actual Nobel Laureates and celebrated geniuses from around the world make time in their busy schedules to attend an event like this? For one, it’s fun. I attended the 2024 Ig Nobels, and it was hilarious and an absolute blast. But the Ig Nobels attract such a distinguished crowd for another reason as well! These people are smart enough to know that when it comes to big ideas, a laugh is never just a laugh. Following your sense of humor makes you pay more attention and be intellectually open to new, surprising insights and observations. 3. You don’t have to be the center of attention to have a great sense of humor. I am a glutton for attention. I love talking to strangers, and I have built my career around happily getting up in front of crowds to share my thoughts. I’m a tried-and-true extrovert. My wife, Mollie, on the other hand, is an introvert who would much rather be curled up at home with a good book than chatting with a neighbor on the bus. But here’s the thing: Mollie has an incredible sense of humor! People often make the mistake of thinking that a sense of humor means you’re at a party, in the middle of a large group, loudly telling a joke. In fact, it could just as easily be that you are on a walk alone when you notice an extremely chubby squirrel going to town on an acorn. The point is that you’re bringing laughter into your daily life and enjoying the delightful absurdity of the world that you might otherwise have missed. “People often make the mistake of thinking that a sense of humor means you’re at a party, in the middle of a large group, loudly telling a joke.” And if you’re curious, Mollie really did see that jumbo squirrel having the time of its life. Even just hearing her report secondhand later in the day, I was clutching my sides too at that little squirrel feast. 4. If you want a group to work well together, try being like Abraham Lincoln. When Abraham Lincoln assembled his famous “team of rivals,” he had a cabinet full of brilliant statesmen. There was only one problem: They mostly hated each other, and they didn’t particularly like him. So how did Honest Abe turn the group of rival politicians into a team? Lincoln’s answer was, in part, to laugh with them. To create a group identity with inside jokes, folksy anecdotes, and shared humor. Everyone who knew Lincoln knew he had no shortage of jokes. One contemporary said Lincoln’s jokes were as “plenty as blackberries.” And if there’s one thing we know about blackberries, it’s that there are lots of them. Modern portrayals of Lincoln tend to paint him as a serious and tragic figure, for understandable reasons. But much of Lincoln’s skill as a politician and leader was his ability to connect with people by getting them laughing. Benjamin P. Thomas, a Lincoln scholar, wrote that Lincoln was “ready with an instant witticism or retort under almost any circumstances.” One excellent example of Lincoln’s humor is a joke he made about himself being ugly. During the Lincoln-Douglas debates, when he was accused of being two-faced, Lincoln responded, “Honestly, if I were two-faced, would I be showing you this one?” A very solid self-burn! Bob Mankoff, the former cartoon editor for The New Yorker, has long been interested in Lincoln’s humor. In an essay, he wrote that “Lincoln was much more about ‘laughing with’ than ‘laughing at.’ And when ‘laughing at,’ it was often himself he was mocking.” “Much of Lincoln’s skill as a politician and leader was his ability to connect with people by getting them laughing.” That Lincoln-style congeniality and empathy can help disarm detractors and create a more comfortable space for positive group dynamics to form. There are evolutionary reasons to suspect that this may be one of the earliest and most important functions of humor. Animal behavior experts have long observed that chimpanzees and other primates engage in an equivalent of human laughter. After laughing together, primates are often more relaxed and less aggressive. If it works for chimps, it might work for your colleagues at the office, too! 5. You can stockpile laughter in a file folder. If you’re anything like me, you can instantly recall humiliating and embarrassing moments from decades ago. I will often be in the shower minding my own business when all of a sudden I have a vivid recollection of something horrifying, like the time I had a phone conversation with my crush in high school and it ended with her saying “I don’t think I have a crush on you anymore because you talk too much.” Or when I was in one of my first ever big deal meetings with a TV executive, I told her I hated reality TV and then turned around to see a giant poster for the show Jersey Shore with her name listed as one of the producers. It’s no challenge for me to give a vivid play-by-play of any one of thousands of cringeworthy interactions. But ask me to give you an equivalent retelling of the funniest jokes and best laughs I’ve had, and it takes a lot more effort. We tend to forget the laughs and retain the skin-crawling mortification. But you can change that! Every time you find something that makes you laugh uncontrollably, write it down or find a way to experience it again. Maybe it’s a list on your computer of the online videos that make you cry tears of laughter, a jar full of Post-it notes with inside jokes from your marriage, or an album of the most hilariously bad photos you’ve ever taken of your kids or your friends. The form it takes isn’t particularly important, but your ability to re-access a good laugh when you need it is. “Every time you find something that makes you laugh uncontrollably, write it down or find a way to experience it again.” When I interviewed the care team at a Hong Kong nursing home about the wildly successful humor program they had implemented, they told me that residents in the program had needed less pain medicine, felt more connected, and experienced an increase in life satisfaction. One of the biggest parts of their program was simply keeping a folder of writing, cartoons, images, and jokes that made them laugh and then sharing it with others. That’s a prescription that any of us can try, and there’s no copay. Enjoy our full library of Book Bites—read by the authors!—in the Next Big Idea App. This article originally appeared in Next Big Idea Club magazine and is reprinted with permission. View the full article

Anthropic is undoubtedly having a moment right now. First came Claude Code, an AI-powered coding tool for developers, in early 2025, which quickly gained a cult following among that community. “You spent your holidays with your family? That’s nice I spent my holidays with Claude Code,” recently posted one tech-policy expert. But most people aren’t developers, let alone know their way around a command-line interface. So last week, Anthropic launched Claude Cowork, which the company calls “Claude Code for the rest of your work.” Available now as a research preview on Anthropic’s $100-per-month Max plan, Cowork is the best example of what “vibe coding“—an AI-powered approach where people use natural language prompts to bring their software ideas to life—can do. Designed for non-developers, it’s a desktop app that aims to help regular workers with all kinds of tasks, like organizing files or crunching data. Case in point: Anthropic’s new working agent was largely built by Claude itself, in just a week and a half. The memes write themselves. “Claude, here is a picture of my bank account. claude, make that number go up to $1 billion. make no mistakes,” one X user prompted. “Claude here is my life. all of it. down to the last detail. make me happy. beautiful. successful. make no mistakes,” another posted. “Claude, here are my notes where I keep all of my passwords. here are my bank account details and phone number for 2fa. run my life and make money,” wrote another. “Make no mistakes.” While Claude might not be able to satisfy those demands (yet), AI is undoubtedly turning the workforce on its head. Research shows that 85% of employees globally are saving one to seven hours a week with AI. Yet, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei warned that we could be “sleepwalking into a white-collar bloodbath,” with AI wiping out huge swathes of entry-level jobs in just one update. Software engineers in particular, have found themselves directly in the impact zone. “Yea I’m a full-stack engineer”, one X user posted. Their stack: Claude, Terminal, and Cursor. But they aren’t alone. “Bankers, lawyers, and consultants looking at everyone else joining them in the unemployment line after the Claude Cowork release,” quipped another. In fact, no one is marked safe. “I’m assembling a team,” wrote one X user alongside an image of a company leadership team with Claude in every C-suite role. A follow-up post read “just got kicked out of my own company.” “Got told I was ‘slowing everyone down.'” Despite the discourse, data currently shows that there’s little evidence for actual AI-caused displacement in the job market. For now, we’ll at least have the popcorn ready for the memes that just won’t quit. View the full article

Representatives of both insurers and policyholders point out multiple flaws in the new laws and additional proposed bills. View the full article

Eighteen months ago, it was plausible that artificial intelligence might take a different path than social media. Back then, AI’s development hadn’t consolidated under a small number of big tech firms. Nor had it capitalized on consumer attention, surveilling users, and delivering ads. Unfortunately, the AI industry is now taking a page from the social media playbook and has set its sights on monetizing consumer attention. When OpenAI launched its ChatGPT Search feature in late 2024 and its browser, ChatGPT Atlas, in October 2025, it kicked off a race to capture online behavioral data to power advertising. It’s part of a yearslong turnabout by OpenAI, whose CEO Sam Altman once called the combination of ads and AI “unsettling” and now promises that ads can be deployed in AI apps while preserving trust. The rampant speculation among OpenAI users who believe they see paid placements in ChatGPT responses suggests they are not convinced. In 2024, AI search company Perplexity started experimenting with ads in its offerings. A few months after that, Microsoft introduced ads to its Copilot AI. Google’s AI Mode for search now increasingly features ads, as does Amazon’s Rufus chatbot. As a security expert and data scientist, we see these examples as harbingers of a future where AI companies profit from manipulating their users’ behavior for the benefit of their advertisers and investors. It’s also a reminder that time to steer the direction of AI development away from private exploitation and toward public benefit is quickly running out. The functionality of ChatGPT Search and its Atlas browser is not really new. Meta, commercial AI competitor Perplexity, and even ChatGPT itself have had similar AI search features for years, and both Google and Microsoft beat OpenAI to the punch by integrating AI with their browsers. But OpenAI’s business positioning signals a shift. We believe the ChatGPT Search and Atlas announcements are worrisome because there is really only one way to make money on search: the advertising model pioneered ruthlessly by Google. Advertising model Ruled a monopolist in U.S. federal court, Google has earned more than US$1.6 trillion in advertising revenue since 2001. You may think of Google as a web search company, or a streaming video company (YouTube), or an email company (Gmail), or a mobile phone company (Android, Pixel), or maybe even an AI company (Gemini). But those products are ancillary to Google’s bottom line. The advertising segment typically accounts for 80% to 90% of its total revenue. Everything else is there to collect users’ data and direct users’ attention to its advertising revenue stream. After two decades in this monopoly position, Google’s search product is much more tuned to the company’s needs than those of its users. When Google Search first arrived decades ago, it was revelatory in its ability to instantly find useful information across the still-nascent web. In 2025, its search result pages are dominated by low-quality and often AI-generated content, spam sites that exist solely to drive traffic to Amazon sales—a tactic known as affiliate marketing—and paid ad placements, which at times are indistinguishable from organic results. Plenty of advertisers and observers seem to think AI-powered advertising is the future of the ad business. Big Tech’s AI advertising plans are shaking up the industry. Highly persuasive Paid advertising in AI search, and AI models generally, could look very different from traditional web search. It has the potential to influence your thinking, spending patterns, and even personal beliefs in much more subtle ways. Because AI can engage in active dialogue, addressing your specific questions, concerns, and ideas rather than just filtering static content, its potential for influence is much greater. It’s like the difference between reading a textbook and having a conversation with its author. Imagine you’re conversing with your AI agent about an upcoming vacation. Did it recommend a particular airline or hotel chain because they really are best for you, or does the company get a kickback for every mention? If you ask about a political issue, does the model bias its answer based on which political party has paid the company a fee, or based on the bias of the model’s corporate owners? There is mounting evidence that AI models are at least as effective as people at persuading users to do things. A December 2023 meta-analysis of 121 randomized trials reported that AI models are as good as humans at shifting people’s perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. A more recent meta-analysis of eight studies similarly concluded there was “no significant overall difference in persuasive performance between (large language models) and humans.” This influence may go well beyond shaping what products you buy or who you vote for. As with the field of search engine optimization, the incentive for humans to perform for AI models might shape the way people write and communicate with each other. How we express ourselves online is likely to be increasingly directed to win the attention of AIs and earn placement in the responses they return to users. A different way forward Much of this is discouraging, but there is much that can be done to change it. First, it’s important to recognize that today’s AI is fundamentally untrustworthy, for the same reasons that search engines and social media platforms are. The problem is not the technology itself; fast ways to find information and communicate with friends and family can be wonderful capabilities. The problem is the priorities of the corporations who own these platforms and for whose benefit they are operated. Recognize that you don’t have control over what data is fed to the AI, who it is shared with and how it is used. It’s important to keep that in mind when you connect devices and services to AI platforms, ask them questions, or consider buying or doing the things they suggest. There is also a lot that people can demand of governments to restrain harmful corporate uses of AI. In the U.S., Congress could enshrine consumers’ rights to control their own personal data, as the EU already has. It could also create a data protection enforcement agency, as essentially every other developed nation has. Governments worldwide could invest in Public AI—models built by public agencies offered universally for public benefit and transparently under public oversight. They could also restrict how corporations can collude to exploit people using AI, for example, by barring advertisements for dangerous products such as cigarettes and requiring disclosure of paid endorsements. Every technology company seeks to differentiate itself from competitors, particularly in an era when yesterday’s groundbreaking AI quickly becomes a commodity that will run on any kid’s phone. One differentiator is in building a trustworthy service. It remains to be seen whether companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic can sustain profitable businesses on the back of subscription AI services like the premium editions of ChatGPT, Plus, and Pro, and Claude Pro. If they are going to continue convincing consumers and businesses to pay for these premium services, they will need to build trust. That will require making real commitments to consumers on transparency, privacy, reliability, and security that are followed through consistently and verifiably. And while no one knows what the future business models for AI will be, we can be certain that consumers do not want to be exploited by AI, secretly or otherwise. Bruce Schneier is an adjunct lecturer in public policy at Harvard Kennedy School. Nathan Sanders is an affiliate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

On January 20, Netflix is bringing back the popular talent competition Star Search, with a twist: For the first time in its history, Netflix will let its audience decide the outcome of a show with live voting. However, unlike how shows have done this in the past, audiences won’t have to send text messages or call a special number to make their votes count. Instead, viewers will vote with their TV’s remote control, or right within the Netflix app if they watch the show on their phones. Netflix hopes that this level of simplicity will help to make live programs like Star Search a lot more exciting, and offer its audience a chance to experience shared watercooler moments that tend to be missing from today’s world of hyper-personalized streaming. “You can influence the outcome [together with] everyone at the same time,” says Netflix member product VP Elmar Nubbemeyer. “You’re part of the Zeitgeist at that moment.” To bring real-time voting to Star Search, Netflix relied on work it previously did for interactive narrative shows. It also snuck voting tests into David Chang’s Netflix show, and showed focus groups segments from two fake shows it cooked up for testing purposes. The company even built internal tools that will help it to repurpose live voting and polling for other live events and shows in the future. “We are planning more of these types of moments,” says Netflix product designer Navin Iyengar. “Star Search is really the big unveiling of it.” From ‘Bandersnatch’ to Star Search When Star Search debuts Tuesday evening, viewers will have two distinct opportunities to make their voices heard. Once a singer or comedian is done with their performance, a graphic will pop up on screen, encouraging each viewer to give it a rating ranging from one to five stars. “We knew early on that giving a star rating as an interaction was really important,” says Iyengar. “It’s core to the Star Search IP.” Later on, they’ll also get the chance to choose their personal champion of the night out of four choices presented next to each other on screen. Each voting graphic will remain on screen for about 60 seconds, and the show’s host—Anthony Anderson, best known for the ABC sitcom Blackish—will respond to the incoming vote tally in real time. Chrissy Teigen, Jelly Roll, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Anthony Anderson It’s the first time Netflix has done real-time voting like this, but the company has been experimenting with getting viewers more actively involved for almost a decade. In 2017, the streaming service released its first interactive TV shows, which prompted viewers to choose their own adventure through branched narratives. In one scene of “Bandersnatch,” an interactive episode of the dystopian sci-fi show Black Mirror, the viewer has to decide whether the main character should take his medication by pressing left or right buttons on their remote control, with different choices leading to vastly varying outcomes. Even in those early days, Netflix engineers and designers already thought about ways to bring the same kind of interactivity to live content. “We always felt that interactive experiences should go live, because members could actually interact in the moment and impact the story as it’s happening in real time instead of filming all the different potential outcomes,” recalls Iyengar. Netflix eventually discontinued branched narrative shows because they did not take off with consumers, but the company kept pursuing the idea to marry live content with interactivity. And when Star Search came along, it quickly became clear that this was a perfect opportunity to bring back some of that interactive tech first built for titles like Bandersnatch, and use it to improve the way audience participation is usually done. Talent shows like American Idol used to rely heavily on phone calls to register votes, but nowadays use a mix of online and text message voting. Shows often allow participants to vote multiple times, leading to massive vote counts, which often dwarf the number of voters. “It’s a surprisingly low share of viewers who actually reach out and vote,” Iyengar says, adding that industry estimates put that number somewhere between five and ten percent. “Voting has always been difficult for these shows,” he adds. Netflix employees believed that the tech first built for Bandersnatch, which allowed viewers to send feedback with their TV remote, would already go a long way towards making it easier to participate. But they quickly realized that great tech alone wasn’t enough. Keeping voting fair, even for Star Search Netflix began testing prototypes for live voting with focus groups nearly a year ago. To do so, the company repurposed two existing titles—a dating show and a talent competition. “We basically made fake shows,” Iyengar says. “We edited them down to make them feel live and make it feel like your vote was really important.” Then, it put select viewers into a lab designed to look like a living room, with a double-sided mirror to observe how they reacted. “We put our prototypes on a TV,” Iyengar says. “We had a TV remote that could control it. People were sitting on a couch, and we would actually just leave them alone.” Netflix researchers just told test participants that they get to take a peek at a prototype, without explaining that the show would allow them to vote. “People really got it,” Iyengar recalls. “Almost everyone, without prompting from us, would pick up the remote in these moments, and interact.” In fact, people didn’t just get it—they got hooked. “We found that they got really invested in the stakes of the show, even though it was fake,” Iyengar says. “They wanted to know what their vote was going to do. Did the person I voted for win? Show me the math for how you actually calculated the vote. People just took the idea of voting and fairness seriously.” Netflix built its voting tech to only allow one vote per Netflix profile. But those early tests showed that fairness was as much about the way different options were presented, and that long held beliefs about UI design could introduce perceived biases. One example: Designers like Iyengar like to direct the eye to simplify smart TV interfaces. When you open up the Netflix app on your TV, you’ll find that one title is always pre-selected, which helps to understand what to do if you want to navigate to the title right next to it, or perhaps one in a row below. “On TV, you should always have something in focus,” he says. “Otherwise people don’t understand where the focus state is.” When Iyengar’s team built the interface people will use to award stars to Star Search performers, they initially followed that same principle, and highlighted the third star to direct the eye. Test audiences immediately pushed back. “People did not like that we were filling up the stars for them,” he says. “They were like: why are you voting for me?” Voting on tuna sandwiches … and sports competitions? In addition to the interface, Netflix also built a dedicated tool called Pollster that allows producers to integrate voting into their shows, then trigger each round in real time. To test Pollster and the backend tech for voting ahead of this week’s Star Search premiere, the streamer snuck a few test votes into Diner Time Live, a live cooking show hosted by celebrity chef David Chang. Diner Time Live is not a competition, so testing star ratings didn’t really make sense. David Chang’s team nonetheless embraced the idea, and let the show’s audience rate different kinds of sandwiches. “It wasn’t something high stakes,” Iyengar says. Audience participation was nonetheless high. “I’m really glad we did it,” he says. “We learned a lot.” The streamer is now ready to put those lessons learned to the test with the premiere of Star Search on Tuesday – and already has plans to bring it to additional live entertainment formats in the future. “We have many other ideas where we could apply this technology,” Nubbemeyer says. “One of the things we’re [considering] is polling.” Netflix may, for instance, use its voting tech to ask viewers of a sports event to decide who the most impactful player is. “All these things could enrich the entertainment experience by making it more participatory,” Nubbemeyer says. View the full article

Organic search traffic is down just 2.5% year over year — nowhere near the 25% to 60% drops often cited in industry commentary. That’s one big takeaway from a new large-scale analysis by Graphite using Similarweb data from more than 40,000 of the largest U.S. websites. This finding challenges the idea that generative AI tools like ChatGPT are rapidly replacing traditional search and gutting SEO. What’s happening. Surveys, anecdotes, and case studies have fueled claims that organic traffic has collapsed and large language models are pulling demand away from search engines. Graphite’s data tells a different story. Using Similarweb visit data, the study compared organic search traffic to the top 40,000 U.S. sites from February to December 2024 and January to November 2025. The result was a modest decline, not a dramatic one. Google’s statements support this view. In August 2025, the company said total organic click volume from Google Search was “relatively stable year over year.” By the numbers. Traffic trends vary by site size. The largest sites, including the top 10, grew organic traffic by about 1.6%. Declines were concentrated among mid-sized publishers ranked roughly between the top 100 and 10,000. Organic SEO traffic: -2.5% YoY Search engine traffic overall (2025): +0.4% Google traffic (2025): +0.8% Organic vs. paid clicks: ~90% organic, ~10% ads AI Overview CTR impact: -35% when present AI Overview prevalence: ~30% of SERPs AI Overviews: impact, not collapse. AI Overviews do reduce click-through rates when they appear, but their reach is smaller than many assume. AI Overviews appear in about 30% of queries, mostly informational ones. Commercial and transactional keywords are far less affected. Google ads aren’t “stealing” organic clicks. Another common claim is that Google is shifting traffic from organic results to paid ads. The data shows only a modest change. The share of clicks going to ads rose by about two percentage points. Organic results still generate roughly 10 times more clicks than paid placements. Why we care. SEO is still a massive channel. AI is changing how results appear and how users interact with information, but demand for search hasn’t collapsed. The real shift is that SEO is fragmenting. There are more SERP features, more AI-driven answers, and more competition for fewer clicks on informational queries. Strategy now matters more than ever. About the data. The analysis uses Similarweb traffic estimates for more than 40,000 of the largest U.S. websites. These estimates combine opt-in user panels, ISP and mobile carrier data, public web signals, and direct measurement from participating sites to model visits and traffic sources at scale. To validate accuracy, Graphite compared Similarweb trends with first-party Google Search Console and Google Analytics data across multiple sites and found a median correlation of 0.86. The analysis. Debunking The Myth That Search Is Dying View the full article

The average American checks their phone over 140 times a day, clocking an average of 4.5 hours of daily use, with 57% of people admitting they’re “addicted” to their phone. Tech companies, influencers, and other content creators compete for all that attention, which has incentivized the rise of misinformation. Considering this challenging information landscape, strong critical reading skills are as relevant and necessary as they’ve ever been. Unfortunately, literacy continues to be a serious concern. Reading comprehension scores have continued to decline. The majority of Gen Z parents are not reading aloud to their young children because they view it as a chore. Many college students cannot make it through an entire book. With their endless scrolling and easy reposting and sharing of content, social media platforms are designed to encourage passive engagement that people use to relieve boredom and escape stress. As a cognitive scientist and a literacy expert, we research the ways people process information through reading. Based on our work, we believe that deep reading can be an effective way to counter misinformation as well as reduce stress and loneliness. It can be tough to go deeper than a speedy skim, but there are strategies you can use to strengthen important reading skills. Deep reading versus doomscrolling People use smartphones and social media for a variety of reasons, such as to relieve boredom, seek attention, make connections and share news. The infinite amount of information available at your fingertips can lead to information overload, interfering with how you pay attention and make decisions. Research from cognitive science helps to explain how scrolling trains your brain to think passively. To keep people engaged, social media algorithms feed people content similar to what they’ve already engaged with, reinforcing users’ beliefs with similar posts. Repeated exposure to information increases its believability, especially if different sources repeat the information, an effect known as illusory truth. Deep reading, on the other hand, refers to the intentional process of engaging with information in critical, analytical and empathetic ways. It involves making inferences, drawing connections, engaging with different perspectives and questioning possible interpretations. Deep reading does require effort. It can trigger negative feelings like irritation or confusion, and it can very often feel unpleasant. The important question, then: Why would anyone choose the hard work of deep reading when they can just scroll and skim? Motivating mental effort Mindless scrolling may come with unintended consequences. Smartphone and social media use is associated with increased boredom and loneliness. And doomscrolling is related to higher levels of existential anxiety and misanthropy. In contrast, attention and effort, despite being exhausting, can deepen your sense of purpose and strengthen social connection. People also feel motivated to complete tasks that help them pursue personal goals, especially when these tasks are recognized by others. For these reasons, sharing books may be one tool to promote deep reading. One example is a teacher who guides students through longer texts, like novels, paired with active discussions about the books to reinforce comprehension and interpretation. While the debate over the ongoing practice of assigning excerpts over full books in schools continues, evidence does suggest that sustained reading in social settings can promote lifelong enjoyment in reading. With social connection in mind, social media can actually be used as a positive tool. BookTok is a popular online community of people who use TikTok to discuss and recommend books. Fans post in-depth analyses of “K-Pop Demon Hunters” and other movies or shows, demonstrating that close analysis still has a place in the endless scroll of social media. Slowing yourself down to read deeply There are steps you can take to meaningfully engage with the constant stream of information you encounter. Of course, this process can be taxing, and people only have so much effort and attention to expend. It’s important to both recognize your limited cognitive resources and be intentional about how you direct those resources. Simply being aware of how digital reading practices shape your brain can encourage new attitudes and habits toward how you consume information. Just pausing can reduce susceptibility to misinformation. Taking a few extra seconds to consciously judge information can counteract illusory truth, indicating that intentionally slowing down even just a bit can be beneficial. Reading deeply means being able to intentionally choose when to read at different speeds, slowing down as needed to wrestle with difficult passages, savor striking prose, critically evaluate information, and reflect on the meaning of a text. It involves entering into a dialogue with the text rather than gleaning information. Awareness does not mean that you never doomscroll at the end of a long day. But it does mean becoming conscious of the need to also stick with a single text more frequently and to engage with different perspectives. You can start small, perhaps with poems, short stories or essays, before moving up to longer texts. Partner with a friend or family member and set a goal to read a full-length novel or nonfiction book. Accomplish that goal in small chunks, such as reading one chapter a day and discussing what you read with your reading buddy. Practicing deep reading, such as reading novels, can open you up to new perspectives and ideas that you can explore in conversation with others, in person, or even on TikTok. JT Torres is a director of the Harte Center for Teaching and Learning at Washington and Lee University. Jeff Saerys-Foy is an associate professor of psychology at Quinnipiac University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

What's said in the online video, which replicates the president's voice with his permission, may be as important to lenders as how the message is delivered. View the full article

The northern lights have been viewable from locations you don’t normally see them on a number of recent occasions, and on the evening of January 20, the same will be true. On Tuesday night, the aurora borealis may be visible in parts of more than half of all U.S. states. That’s a few more than the usual six or so Northern states that are used to seeing the lit up skies. That’s because solar storms can change visibility, making the spectacle visible to more locations in times of heightened geomagnetic activity. According to an announcement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric’s Space Weather Prediction Center, that’s precisely what’s in the forecast this evening as geomagnetic activity has been strengthening, reaching G4 (severe) levels early this morning at around 3:23 EST. Essentially, when it comes to hopeful viewers, that could mean some amazing visuals, as the heightened activity will make for a stronger aurora. Just yesterday, the Northern Lights were visible in more states than usual, too, with the aurora making an appearance in Southern states like Alabama and New Mexico. However, tonight, far more individuals across the country will be able to catch a glimpse of the event. According to the SWPC’s projected view line, the lights will are predicted to be visible in: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Wyoming, Washington, and Wisconsin. Of course, nothing is set in stone. The view line is just a prediction that could change as the storm shifts, the agency says. When it comes to having your best shot at seeing the Northern Lights, NOAA says that close to midnight (within an hour or two before or after) is wise. “These hours of active aurora expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases,” the page explains. “There may be aurora in the evening and morning but it is usually not as active and therefore, not as visually appealing.” If you’re wondering why the Northern Lights have been visible to more locations more often recently, it’s not all in your head. According to astronomers at BBC Weather, it has to do with the sun, which hit the peak of its 11-year solar cycle in 2025. Still, solar activity will remain high throughout 2026. That means: more shots at seeing the Northern Lights. View the full article

Business review management online involves actively overseeing and responding to customer feedback across various digital platforms. This practice is crucial since a substantial majority of consumers rely on online reviews when deciding on purchases. By managing your reviews effectively, you can improve your business’s credibility and better customer relationships. Comprehending how to implement strategies for review management can greatly influence your brand’s visibility and customer loyalty. So, what are the best ways to optimize this process? Key Takeaways Business review management involves monitoring and responding to online customer reviews to enhance brand reputation and visibility. 98% of consumers read local reviews, making effective review management crucial for influencing purchasing decisions. Engaging with customer feedback can improve ratings, with 63% of unhappy reviewers likely to change their opinions positively after a response. Utilizing review management tools streamlines the process of tracking and analyzing customer feedback for better insights. Positive reviews boost credibility, increase trust among consumers, and enhance local SEO, driving more traffic to the business. Understanding Business Review Management Grasping Business Review Management is vital for any organization looking to thrive in today’s digital environment. Business review management online involves systematically monitoring, responding to, and leveraging customer reviews across various digital platforms. This practice greatly influences purchasing decisions, as 98% of consumers read local business reviews before making a choice. By actively engaging with customer feedback, you can improve your ratings; research shows that 63% of unhappy reviewers change their opinions positively after receiving effective responses. Implementing review management tools can streamline your workflows, allowing you to efficiently track and analyze customer feedback. This ultimately improves your service quality. Furthermore, a robust review management strategy boosts your brand visibility and enhances local SEO, ensuring your business ranks higher in search results. The Importance of Online Reviews Online reviews play a pivotal role in shaping consumer behavior and decision-making processes. With 99.5% of consumers researching purchases online, it’s clear that reviews influence their choices considerably. In fact, 93% of shoppers consider customer ratings fundamental when deciding what to buy. Statistic Importance 84% find online reviews trustworthy They value peer feedback as reliable 98% read local business reviews Positive presence is critical for locals Google favors businesses with positive reviews Boosts visibility in search results Reviews influence 93% of purchase choices Key factor in the buying process For businesses, effective business review management is essential, as it not only builds trust but likewise improves search engine rankings. Maintaining a strong online presence helps attract and retain customers, reinforcing the significance of online reviews in today’s digital environment. Key Benefits of Effective Review Management Effective review management offers several key benefits that can greatly impact your business’s success. By focusing on your presence on online review platforms, you can improve your brand’s credibility and visibility. Here are three key benefits: Increased Trust: With 84% of internet users trusting online reviews as much as personal recommendations, managing these reviews can greatly boost customer confidence in your brand. Influenced Purchasing Decisions: Since 93% of shoppers check consumer feedback before buying, effective review management guarantees positive feedback is highlighted, swaying potential customers in your favor. Improved Customer Relationships: Timely responses to reviews can lead to 33% of customers raising their ratings, nurturing loyalty and trust in your business. Strategies for Managing Customer Feedback To successfully manage customer feedback, it’s vital to implement targeted strategies that encourage engagement and improve your online reputation. Start by leveraging review generation tools to automate requests for new reviews right after positive interactions, as 70% of customers will respond when prompted. It’s additionally important to quickly reply to both positive and negative reviews; 85% of consumers consider responses when making purchase decisions, enhancing your brand’s accountability. Regularly monitor reviews on key platforms like Google and Facebook to guarantee timely engagement with customer feedback, helping you maintain a positive online presence. Implement sentiment analysis tools to identify recurring customer concerns, enabling you to address issues proactively. Finally, showcase positive reviews on your business website and social media, as 93% of consumers read online reviews before purchasing, markedly boosting your credibility and attracting more customers. Leveraging Technology for Review Optimization As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of customer feedback, leveraging technology for review optimization has become essential. By utilizing web review tools, you can streamline your review management processes and improve customer engagement. Here are three key benefits of adopting these technologies: Automation: Review management tools automate solicitation and provide centralized dashboards, making it easier to manage feedback across various platforms. Real-Time Insights: Features like real-time notifications and sentiment analysis allow you to quickly identify and address customer concerns, enhancing your responsiveness. Data Integration: Integrating review management software with your existing CRM or POS systems guarantees seamless data flow, boosting overall efficiency. Additionally, automated campaigns via SMS and email can greatly increase review generation. With 70% of customers likely to review shortly after an interaction, leveraging AI-powered text analytics can uncover valuable patterns in feedback, enabling data-driven improvements in your services and marketing strategies. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Business Management and Why Is It Important? Business management involves planning, organizing, and overseeing resources to achieve specific goals efficiently. It’s crucial since it guarantees that a company operates smoothly, adapts to market changes, and maximizes profitability. Effective management helps streamline processes, improves employee performance, and boosts customer satisfaction. By implementing strategic decisions, you can identify opportunities for growth and innovation, leading to a competitive edge in the marketplace. In the end, strong management is important for long-term success and sustainability. Why Is Management Review Important? Management reviews are crucial since they help you assess your business’s performance and identify areas needing improvement. By regularly reviewing operations, you can guarantee alignment with goals and adapt to changes in the market. This process additionally promotes accountability among team members, as it highlights successes and challenges. Moreover, it enables informed decision-making based on data and feedback, finally driving growth and enhancing overall efficiency in your organization. Why Is Managing Online Reputation Important for a Business? Managing your online reputation is crucial for attracting customers. Since 99.5% of consumers research purchases online, a positive digital presence can influence their decisions. With 93% of shoppers relying on customer reviews, maintaining favorable feedback is fundamental. Positive reviews not just improve your Google search rankings but additionally increase visibility. Engaging with customer feedback nurtures loyalty, as 83% of customers prefer brands that effectively address their concerns, making reputation management a key business strategy. What Is the Purpose of a Business Review? The purpose of a business review is to provide potential customers with insights from previous buyers, influencing their decisions. Since 93% of shoppers value customer ratings, these reviews act as trust signals. They improve your business’s visibility in search engines, attracting more customers. Furthermore, collecting and analyzing reviews helps you gather feedback for product improvement and identify trends. Engaging with reviews shows your commitment to customer satisfaction, nurturing loyalty and repeat business. Conclusion In conclusion, effective business review management online is crucial for any company aiming to thrive in a competitive market. By actively monitoring and responding to customer feedback, you not just improve your brand’s credibility but additionally cultivate stronger relationships with your audience. Implementing strategic review management practices can lead to improved visibility in search results and in the end influence consumer purchasing decisions. Embracing technology can further refine your approach, ensuring your business remains responsive to customer needs and preferences. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is Business Review Management Online and Why It Matters?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Business review management online involves actively overseeing and responding to customer feedback across various digital platforms. This practice is crucial since a substantial majority of consumers rely on online reviews when deciding on purchases. By managing your reviews effectively, you can improve your business’s credibility and better customer relationships. Comprehending how to implement strategies for review management can greatly influence your brand’s visibility and customer loyalty. So, what are the best ways to optimize this process? Key Takeaways Business review management involves monitoring and responding to online customer reviews to enhance brand reputation and visibility. 98% of consumers read local reviews, making effective review management crucial for influencing purchasing decisions. Engaging with customer feedback can improve ratings, with 63% of unhappy reviewers likely to change their opinions positively after a response. Utilizing review management tools streamlines the process of tracking and analyzing customer feedback for better insights. Positive reviews boost credibility, increase trust among consumers, and enhance local SEO, driving more traffic to the business. Understanding Business Review Management Grasping Business Review Management is vital for any organization looking to thrive in today’s digital environment. Business review management online involves systematically monitoring, responding to, and leveraging customer reviews across various digital platforms. This practice greatly influences purchasing decisions, as 98% of consumers read local business reviews before making a choice. By actively engaging with customer feedback, you can improve your ratings; research shows that 63% of unhappy reviewers change their opinions positively after receiving effective responses. Implementing review management tools can streamline your workflows, allowing you to efficiently track and analyze customer feedback. This ultimately improves your service quality. Furthermore, a robust review management strategy boosts your brand visibility and enhances local SEO, ensuring your business ranks higher in search results. The Importance of Online Reviews Online reviews play a pivotal role in shaping consumer behavior and decision-making processes. With 99.5% of consumers researching purchases online, it’s clear that reviews influence their choices considerably. In fact, 93% of shoppers consider customer ratings fundamental when deciding what to buy. Statistic Importance 84% find online reviews trustworthy They value peer feedback as reliable 98% read local business reviews Positive presence is critical for locals Google favors businesses with positive reviews Boosts visibility in search results Reviews influence 93% of purchase choices Key factor in the buying process For businesses, effective business review management is essential, as it not only builds trust but likewise improves search engine rankings. Maintaining a strong online presence helps attract and retain customers, reinforcing the significance of online reviews in today’s digital environment. Key Benefits of Effective Review Management Effective review management offers several key benefits that can greatly impact your business’s success. By focusing on your presence on online review platforms, you can improve your brand’s credibility and visibility. Here are three key benefits: Increased Trust: With 84% of internet users trusting online reviews as much as personal recommendations, managing these reviews can greatly boost customer confidence in your brand. Influenced Purchasing Decisions: Since 93% of shoppers check consumer feedback before buying, effective review management guarantees positive feedback is highlighted, swaying potential customers in your favor. Improved Customer Relationships: Timely responses to reviews can lead to 33% of customers raising their ratings, nurturing loyalty and trust in your business. Strategies for Managing Customer Feedback To successfully manage customer feedback, it’s vital to implement targeted strategies that encourage engagement and improve your online reputation. Start by leveraging review generation tools to automate requests for new reviews right after positive interactions, as 70% of customers will respond when prompted. It’s additionally important to quickly reply to both positive and negative reviews; 85% of consumers consider responses when making purchase decisions, enhancing your brand’s accountability. Regularly monitor reviews on key platforms like Google and Facebook to guarantee timely engagement with customer feedback, helping you maintain a positive online presence. Implement sentiment analysis tools to identify recurring customer concerns, enabling you to address issues proactively. Finally, showcase positive reviews on your business website and social media, as 93% of consumers read online reviews before purchasing, markedly boosting your credibility and attracting more customers. Leveraging Technology for Review Optimization As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of customer feedback, leveraging technology for review optimization has become essential. By utilizing web review tools, you can streamline your review management processes and improve customer engagement. Here are three key benefits of adopting these technologies: Automation: Review management tools automate solicitation and provide centralized dashboards, making it easier to manage feedback across various platforms. Real-Time Insights: Features like real-time notifications and sentiment analysis allow you to quickly identify and address customer concerns, enhancing your responsiveness. Data Integration: Integrating review management software with your existing CRM or POS systems guarantees seamless data flow, boosting overall efficiency. Additionally, automated campaigns via SMS and email can greatly increase review generation. With 70% of customers likely to review shortly after an interaction, leveraging AI-powered text analytics can uncover valuable patterns in feedback, enabling data-driven improvements in your services and marketing strategies. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Business Management and Why Is It Important? Business management involves planning, organizing, and overseeing resources to achieve specific goals efficiently. It’s crucial since it guarantees that a company operates smoothly, adapts to market changes, and maximizes profitability. Effective management helps streamline processes, improves employee performance, and boosts customer satisfaction. By implementing strategic decisions, you can identify opportunities for growth and innovation, leading to a competitive edge in the marketplace. In the end, strong management is important for long-term success and sustainability. Why Is Management Review Important? Management reviews are crucial since they help you assess your business’s performance and identify areas needing improvement. By regularly reviewing operations, you can guarantee alignment with goals and adapt to changes in the market. This process additionally promotes accountability among team members, as it highlights successes and challenges. Moreover, it enables informed decision-making based on data and feedback, finally driving growth and enhancing overall efficiency in your organization. Why Is Managing Online Reputation Important for a Business? Managing your online reputation is crucial for attracting customers. Since 99.5% of consumers research purchases online, a positive digital presence can influence their decisions. With 93% of shoppers relying on customer reviews, maintaining favorable feedback is fundamental. Positive reviews not just improve your Google search rankings but additionally increase visibility. Engaging with customer feedback nurtures loyalty, as 83% of customers prefer brands that effectively address their concerns, making reputation management a key business strategy. What Is the Purpose of a Business Review? The purpose of a business review is to provide potential customers with insights from previous buyers, influencing their decisions. Since 93% of shoppers value customer ratings, these reviews act as trust signals. They improve your business’s visibility in search engines, attracting more customers. Furthermore, collecting and analyzing reviews helps you gather feedback for product improvement and identify trends. Engaging with reviews shows your commitment to customer satisfaction, nurturing loyalty and repeat business. Conclusion In conclusion, effective business review management online is crucial for any company aiming to thrive in a competitive market. By actively monitoring and responding to customer feedback, you not just improve your brand’s credibility but additionally cultivate stronger relationships with your audience. Implementing strategic review management practices can lead to improved visibility in search results and in the end influence consumer purchasing decisions. Embracing technology can further refine your approach, ensuring your business remains responsive to customer needs and preferences. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is Business Review Management Online and Why It Matters?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Health benefits administration companies play a vital role in managing group health insurance plans for both employers and employees. They handle fundamental tasks like enrollment, billing, and claims processing, ensuring everything runs smoothly. These companies likewise verify employee eligibility and maintain compliance with regulations such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. By analyzing claims data, they help organizations optimize costs and promote preventive health measures. Comprehending their functions can provide valuable insights into how they contribute to effective benefits management. Key Takeaways Manages group health insurance plans, ensuring efficient enrollment, billing, and claims processing for employers and employees. Verifies employee eligibility and assists in selecting appropriate health plans tailored to individual needs. Ensures compliance with healthcare regulations, like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, to mitigate legal risks. Analyzes claims data to identify health trends and implement cost containment strategies, optimizing expenses. Provides user-friendly portals for employees to access and manage their benefits independently, enhancing engagement. Understanding Health Benefits Administration Comprehending health benefits administration is vital for both employers and employees, as it involves the effective management of group health insurance plans. A health benefits administration company plays a significant role in this process, overseeing employee benefits administration to guarantee that plans run smoothly. They manage tasks like enrollment, billing, and claims processing, making it easier for employees to access their benefits. Furthermore, these companies verify the accuracy of medical claims and guarantee compliance with healthcare laws such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Key Responsibilities of Health Benefits Administration Companies Health benefits administration companies take on several key responsibilities that guarantee the effective management of employee health plans. As an Aetna employee benefits insurance company, they manage group health insurance plans, assuring accurate processing and reimbursement of medical claims during adherence to healthcare laws. They support enrollment, billing, claims, and reporting, generating consolidated premium invoices and reconciling payments for both employers and employees. These benefit administration companies analyze claims data, offering insights for program adjustments to optimize health plan costs and improve employee experiences. They additionally assure compliance with complex regulations, such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, mitigating legal risks for organizations. By leveraging technology, health benefits administration companies streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and boost communication and service for all stakeholders. The Importance of Compliance in Benefits Administration Grasping the significance of compliance in benefits administration is vital for organizations aiming to navigate the intricacies of employee health plans. Compliance guarantees adherence to federal regulations like the HIPAA and Affordable Care Act (ACA), protecting employee health information and access to benefits. Failure to comply can lead to severe financial penalties, with the Department of Labor imposing fines for violations. Regularly monitoring regulatory changes is important, as over 80% of companies face increased administrative burdens because of compliance challenges. This can impact overall operational efficiency negatively. Effective compliance governance not only mitigates legal risks but also cultivates employee trust and satisfaction. When employees know their benefits are well-managed and compliant, they feel secure. Benefits of Compliance Consequences of Non-Compliance Improved employee trust Financial penalties Enhanced operational efficiency Increased administrative burdens Legal risk mitigation Potential lawsuits Better employee satisfaction Loss of employee confidence Managing Enrollment and Claims Processing When managing enrollment and claims processing, effective organization is key to guaranteeing that employees receive the benefits they need without unnecessary hassle. Health benefits administration companies start by verifying employee eligibility and helping them select health plans that suit their individual needs. Once enrolled, they process claims efficiently, making sure that medical insurance claims are accurate and reimbursed swiftly as they adhere to healthcare regulations. These companies furthermore generate consolidated premium invoices for employers and reconcile payments to maintain accurate billing records. By analyzing claims data, they provide insights that allow organizations to adjust their health programs and manage costs effectively. In addition, health benefits administration companies support employees by issuing medical ID cards and responding to inquiries related to their health benefits. This thorough approach guarantees a smooth experience for both employers and employees, enhancing overall satisfaction with the benefits offered. The Role of Technology in Benefits Administration Technology plays an essential role in benefits administration by automating administrative tasks, which helps you reduce the workload on your HR team. With improved employee engagement tools, employees can easily access and manage their benefits, leading to a more satisfying experience. Furthermore, technology streamlines compliance management processes, ensuring you stay updated with changing regulations and avoid potential penalties. Automation of Administrative Tasks As organizations endeavor to improve efficiency in their operations, automating administrative tasks in benefits administration has become increasingly crucial. Technology streamlines repetitive tasks like enrollment processing, greatly reducing the administrative burden on HR teams and minimizing human error. Automated workflows improve communication between employees and benefits providers, ensuring timely access to important information. Moreover, benefits administration software tracks compliance with evolving regulations across various states, helping you avoid costly penalties. By integrating technology, HR professionals can analyze claims data and employee feedback more efficiently, leading to better customization of benefits packages. User-friendly portals empower employees to manage their benefits independently, resulting in greater engagement and satisfaction with the benefits offered. Embracing automation is key to a more efficient benefits administration process. Enhancing Employee Engagement Tools How can organizations effectively improve employee engagement in their benefits administration processes? By leveraging technology, you can enhance the tools available to your employees, making it easier for them to navigate their benefits. Consider implementing: Online portals that provide easy access to benefits information. Mobile applications that allow employees to manage their benefits on-the-go. Data analytics tools that help identify employee preferences and trends. Self-service capabilities enabling employees to enroll, view, and modify their benefits independently. These innovations not just streamline the administration for HR but also promote ownership among employees. When individuals have the tools to understand and manage their benefits, it leads to greater satisfaction and higher utilization rates, eventually benefiting your organization. Streamlining Compliance Management Processes As enhancing employee engagement tools sets a solid foundation for benefits administration, streamlining compliance management processes takes it a step further by minimizing the risk of regulatory issues. Technology automates compliance tracking, ensuring you stay current with changing federal and state regulations, which reduces the risk of costly penalties. Integrated HR software solutions provide real-time updates on compliance changes, enabling you to proactively adjust policies and processes. Automated workflows simplify enrollment and documentation management, minimizing human error. Advanced Analytics tools allow you to monitor utilization patterns and compliance adherence, so you can make data-driven decisions. Furthermore, self-service portals empower employees to access and manage their benefits as well as ensuring necessary compliance documentation is submitted and tracked correctly. Enhancing Employee Communication and Support Effective employee communication and support are crucial for maximizing the benefits of health benefits administration. Companies in this field focus on providing clear, accessible information about available options, ensuring you understand and can effectively utilize your benefits. They elevate your experience through various support channels, making it easy to address inquiries and resolve issues. Here are some key ways these Microsoft companies improve communication and support: Self-service tools that empower you to manage your benefits independently. Responsive support available via phone, email, and online portals. Regular educational sessions and webinars to keep you informed about changes in benefits and wellness initiatives. Data analytics tools to gather feedback on your satisfaction, helping improve future communication strategies. Cost Containment Strategies in Health Benefits Administration In cost containment strategies for health benefits administration, you’ll find that data-driven decision making plays a vital role in optimizing expenses. By analyzing claims data, you can identify trends and implement preventive health initiatives that encourage employees to engage in healthier behaviors, eventually reducing overall healthcare costs. Furthermore, focusing on education around benefits and cost-effective options empowers employees to make informed choices, further driving down unnecessary expenditures. Data-Driven Decision Making Data-driven decision making plays a crucial role in cost containment strategies within health benefits administration. By leveraging data analytics, you can track claims data and identify trends that inform effective strategies. Here are some key benefits of using data-driven approaches: Monitor employee health outcomes and adjust benefit offerings to emphasize preventive care. Negotiate better rates with providers using evidence-based insights into health needs. Implement predictive analytics to forecast future healthcare costs and allocate resources effectively. Regularly analyze employee feedback to improve benefits packages, ensuring they meet needs during cost management. Through these methods, you can optimize the overall benefits budget, improve program efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable health benefits administration. Preventive Health Initiatives Preventive health initiatives are essential components of cost containment strategies in health benefits administration, as they aim to proactively manage employee health and reduce overall healthcare expenses. By encouraging participation in wellness programs, organizations can achieve a reported 30% reduction in healthcare costs. These initiatives often include regular health screenings, vaccinations, and wellness challenges, which can increase employee engagement in health programs by up to 50%. Promoting healthier lifestyles leads to decreased absenteeism, with studies showing that participants miss 25% fewer workdays. Health benefits administration companies additionally collaborate with healthcare providers to offer incentives like reduced premiums for completing preventive measures. Utilizing data analytics helps identify health trends, allowing customized initiatives that potentially save $3 for every $1 invested in wellness programs. Evaluating Health Benefits Administrators Evaluating health benefits administrators involves a careful analysis of various key factors that can profoundly impact your organization’s overall efficiency and employee satisfaction. To make an informed decision, consider these crucial aspects: Administration Costs and Fees: Verify the costs align with your budget and expected ROI. Technology Capabilities: Assess their ability to streamline processes through automation and self-service tools. Compliance and Audit Results: Review their track record in adhering to healthcare regulations, especially HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Claim Processing Speed and Accuracy: Analyze their efficiency in managing claims and customer service ratings to evaluate support for employees. Partnering With Insurance Providers When you partner with insurance providers, you’re not just securing coverage; you’re further shaping the healthcare experience for your employees. Health benefits administration companies play an essential role in customizing medical benefits solutions that fit your organization’s unique needs. They evaluate various insurance carriers, negotiating competitive rates and extensive options for you and your team. To guarantee a smooth process, these companies facilitate seamless enrollment and provide educational resources, so employees understand their benefits fully. They likewise monitor compliance with regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, making sure your partnerships adhere to legal requirements. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect from this partnership: Service Description Custom Solutions Customized medical benefits for your workforce Rate Negotiation Securing competitive rates from insurance carriers Enrollment Facilitation Streamlined processes for employee participation Educational Support Resources to help employees understand their benefits Compliance Monitoring Making sure adherence to federal and state regulations Trends and Challenges in Benefits Administration As the scenery of employee benefits evolves, staying informed about the latest trends and challenges in benefits administration is fundamental for organizations. You’ll notice that personalized benefits solutions are gaining traction, with 94% of companies enhancing their mental health support initiatives. Moreover, technology is becoming significant to reduce the administrative burden on HR professionals, with automated workflows simplifying enrollment processes. Here are some key trends and challenges: Steering through complex regulatory environments because of the rise of remote work. Continuous monitoring of compliance with federal regulations to avoid penalties. A demand for flexible benefits packages, as 80% of employees prefer better benefits over salary increases. Increased emphasis on employee well-being, reshaping how benefits are viewed and implemented. Understanding these factors is critical for crafting effective benefits strategies that meet both organizational goals and employee needs. Best Practices for Effective Benefits Management When managing employee benefits, streamlining enrollment processes is crucial for improving participation and reducing confusion. Implementing compliance monitoring strategies helps guarantee that your benefits offerings meet regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of penalties. Streamlined Enrollment Processes Effective benefits management relies heavily on streamlined enrollment processes, which greatly improve the experience for both employees and HR teams. By leveraging automated workflows, you can simplify sign-ups and reduce administrative time and errors. Implementing user-friendly HR software allows employees to easily compare and select benefits packages, boosting engagement. Here are some best practices to reflect on: Regular training for HR staff on the latest technology tools Utilizing self-service portals for employee-managed enrollment Tracking enrollment data to adjust benefits offerings Guaranteeing compliance with evolving regulations These strategies improve efficiency, empower employees, and guarantee your benefits package remains competitive and appealing. Compliance Monitoring Strategies Managing employee benefits effectively requires a strong focus on compliance monitoring strategies that guarantee adherence to various regulations. Health benefits administration companies regularly audit benefit plans to ascertain compliance with federal regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. They utilize technology tools to track legal changes across states, adjusting benefits packages for remote workers accordingly. Regular training sessions keep staff updated on compliance requirements, minimizing risks associated with non-compliance and protecting employee health information. Automated systems monitor claims processing and reporting, ensuring deadlines are met and reducing penalties for missed obligations. Proactive communication with employees about their rights and benefits nurtures a culture of compliance, enabling timely feedback and adjustments based on employee usage and satisfaction. Frequently Asked Questions What Does a Benefits Administration Company Do? A benefits administration company manages employee benefits packages, guaranteeing they’re designed and implemented effectively. You’ll find they streamline the enrollment process and provide resources that help employees understand their options. They likewise guarantee compliance with regulations, reducing the risk of penalties for your organization. What Is a Health Benefits Administrator? A health benefits administrator oversees the management of health insurance plans for organizations. You’ll handle enrollment, billing, claims processing, and guarantee compliance with regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Your role includes verifying employee eligibility and assisting in selecting suitable health plans. How Much Does a Benefits Admin Make? A benefits administrator typically earns between $50,000 and $75,000 per year in the U.S., depending on experience, location, and organization size. In urban areas or high-demand industries, salaries can exceed $90,000, especially with advanced certifications. Hourly wages range from $25 to $36. Furthermore, many benefits administrators receive bonuses or profit-sharing, which can increase overall compensation. With a projected 7% job growth rate, demand for these roles remains steady through 2031. Is Being a Benefits Administrator Hard? Yes, being a benefits administrator can be challenging. You’ll navigate complex regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, requiring strong organizational skills for tasks such as enrollment and claims processing. Staying updated on changing laws is vital to avoid penalties and guarantee competitive offerings. The role additionally demands effective communication to address employee inquiries, and the administrative burden can lead to missed deadlines, so using technology to streamline processes is fundamental. Conclusion In conclusion, health benefits administration companies play an essential role in managing group health insurance plans for employers and employees. They guarantee compliance with regulations, streamline enrollment and claims processing, and leverage technology for efficient benefits management. By partnering with insurance providers and analyzing claims data, they help optimize costs and improve employee engagement. Comprehending these functions can aid employers in selecting the right administrator, eventually enhancing the overall effectiveness of their health benefits programs. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Does a Health Benefits Administration Company Do?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Health benefits administration companies play a vital role in managing group health insurance plans for both employers and employees. They handle fundamental tasks like enrollment, billing, and claims processing, ensuring everything runs smoothly. These companies likewise verify employee eligibility and maintain compliance with regulations such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. By analyzing claims data, they help organizations optimize costs and promote preventive health measures. Comprehending their functions can provide valuable insights into how they contribute to effective benefits management. Key Takeaways Manages group health insurance plans, ensuring efficient enrollment, billing, and claims processing for employers and employees. Verifies employee eligibility and assists in selecting appropriate health plans tailored to individual needs. Ensures compliance with healthcare regulations, like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, to mitigate legal risks. Analyzes claims data to identify health trends and implement cost containment strategies, optimizing expenses. Provides user-friendly portals for employees to access and manage their benefits independently, enhancing engagement. Understanding Health Benefits Administration Comprehending health benefits administration is vital for both employers and employees, as it involves the effective management of group health insurance plans. A health benefits administration company plays a significant role in this process, overseeing employee benefits administration to guarantee that plans run smoothly. They manage tasks like enrollment, billing, and claims processing, making it easier for employees to access their benefits. Furthermore, these companies verify the accuracy of medical claims and guarantee compliance with healthcare laws such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Key Responsibilities of Health Benefits Administration Companies Health benefits administration companies take on several key responsibilities that guarantee the effective management of employee health plans. As an Aetna employee benefits insurance company, they manage group health insurance plans, assuring accurate processing and reimbursement of medical claims during adherence to healthcare laws. They support enrollment, billing, claims, and reporting, generating consolidated premium invoices and reconciling payments for both employers and employees. These benefit administration companies analyze claims data, offering insights for program adjustments to optimize health plan costs and improve employee experiences. They additionally assure compliance with complex regulations, such as HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, mitigating legal risks for organizations. By leveraging technology, health benefits administration companies streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and boost communication and service for all stakeholders. The Importance of Compliance in Benefits Administration Grasping the significance of compliance in benefits administration is vital for organizations aiming to navigate the intricacies of employee health plans. Compliance guarantees adherence to federal regulations like the HIPAA and Affordable Care Act (ACA), protecting employee health information and access to benefits. Failure to comply can lead to severe financial penalties, with the Department of Labor imposing fines for violations. Regularly monitoring regulatory changes is important, as over 80% of companies face increased administrative burdens because of compliance challenges. This can impact overall operational efficiency negatively. Effective compliance governance not only mitigates legal risks but also cultivates employee trust and satisfaction. When employees know their benefits are well-managed and compliant, they feel secure. Benefits of Compliance Consequences of Non-Compliance Improved employee trust Financial penalties Enhanced operational efficiency Increased administrative burdens Legal risk mitigation Potential lawsuits Better employee satisfaction Loss of employee confidence Managing Enrollment and Claims Processing When managing enrollment and claims processing, effective organization is key to guaranteeing that employees receive the benefits they need without unnecessary hassle. Health benefits administration companies start by verifying employee eligibility and helping them select health plans that suit their individual needs. Once enrolled, they process claims efficiently, making sure that medical insurance claims are accurate and reimbursed swiftly as they adhere to healthcare regulations. These companies furthermore generate consolidated premium invoices for employers and reconcile payments to maintain accurate billing records. By analyzing claims data, they provide insights that allow organizations to adjust their health programs and manage costs effectively. In addition, health benefits administration companies support employees by issuing medical ID cards and responding to inquiries related to their health benefits. This thorough approach guarantees a smooth experience for both employers and employees, enhancing overall satisfaction with the benefits offered. The Role of Technology in Benefits Administration Technology plays an essential role in benefits administration by automating administrative tasks, which helps you reduce the workload on your HR team. With improved employee engagement tools, employees can easily access and manage their benefits, leading to a more satisfying experience. Furthermore, technology streamlines compliance management processes, ensuring you stay updated with changing regulations and avoid potential penalties. Automation of Administrative Tasks As organizations endeavor to improve efficiency in their operations, automating administrative tasks in benefits administration has become increasingly crucial. Technology streamlines repetitive tasks like enrollment processing, greatly reducing the administrative burden on HR teams and minimizing human error. Automated workflows improve communication between employees and benefits providers, ensuring timely access to important information. Moreover, benefits administration software tracks compliance with evolving regulations across various states, helping you avoid costly penalties. By integrating technology, HR professionals can analyze claims data and employee feedback more efficiently, leading to better customization of benefits packages. User-friendly portals empower employees to manage their benefits independently, resulting in greater engagement and satisfaction with the benefits offered. Embracing automation is key to a more efficient benefits administration process. Enhancing Employee Engagement Tools How can organizations effectively improve employee engagement in their benefits administration processes? By leveraging technology, you can enhance the tools available to your employees, making it easier for them to navigate their benefits. Consider implementing: Online portals that provide easy access to benefits information. Mobile applications that allow employees to manage their benefits on-the-go. Data analytics tools that help identify employee preferences and trends. Self-service capabilities enabling employees to enroll, view, and modify their benefits independently. These innovations not just streamline the administration for HR but also promote ownership among employees. When individuals have the tools to understand and manage their benefits, it leads to greater satisfaction and higher utilization rates, eventually benefiting your organization. Streamlining Compliance Management Processes As enhancing employee engagement tools sets a solid foundation for benefits administration, streamlining compliance management processes takes it a step further by minimizing the risk of regulatory issues. Technology automates compliance tracking, ensuring you stay current with changing federal and state regulations, which reduces the risk of costly penalties. Integrated HR software solutions provide real-time updates on compliance changes, enabling you to proactively adjust policies and processes. Automated workflows simplify enrollment and documentation management, minimizing human error. Advanced Analytics tools allow you to monitor utilization patterns and compliance adherence, so you can make data-driven decisions. Furthermore, self-service portals empower employees to access and manage their benefits as well as ensuring necessary compliance documentation is submitted and tracked correctly. Enhancing Employee Communication and Support Effective employee communication and support are crucial for maximizing the benefits of health benefits administration. Companies in this field focus on providing clear, accessible information about available options, ensuring you understand and can effectively utilize your benefits. They elevate your experience through various support channels, making it easy to address inquiries and resolve issues. Here are some key ways these Microsoft companies improve communication and support: Self-service tools that empower you to manage your benefits independently. Responsive support available via phone, email, and online portals. Regular educational sessions and webinars to keep you informed about changes in benefits and wellness initiatives. Data analytics tools to gather feedback on your satisfaction, helping improve future communication strategies. Cost Containment Strategies in Health Benefits Administration In cost containment strategies for health benefits administration, you’ll find that data-driven decision making plays a vital role in optimizing expenses. By analyzing claims data, you can identify trends and implement preventive health initiatives that encourage employees to engage in healthier behaviors, eventually reducing overall healthcare costs. Furthermore, focusing on education around benefits and cost-effective options empowers employees to make informed choices, further driving down unnecessary expenditures. Data-Driven Decision Making Data-driven decision making plays a crucial role in cost containment strategies within health benefits administration. By leveraging data analytics, you can track claims data and identify trends that inform effective strategies. Here are some key benefits of using data-driven approaches: Monitor employee health outcomes and adjust benefit offerings to emphasize preventive care. Negotiate better rates with providers using evidence-based insights into health needs. Implement predictive analytics to forecast future healthcare costs and allocate resources effectively. Regularly analyze employee feedback to improve benefits packages, ensuring they meet needs during cost management. Through these methods, you can optimize the overall benefits budget, improve program efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable health benefits administration. Preventive Health Initiatives Preventive health initiatives are essential components of cost containment strategies in health benefits administration, as they aim to proactively manage employee health and reduce overall healthcare expenses. By encouraging participation in wellness programs, organizations can achieve a reported 30% reduction in healthcare costs. These initiatives often include regular health screenings, vaccinations, and wellness challenges, which can increase employee engagement in health programs by up to 50%. Promoting healthier lifestyles leads to decreased absenteeism, with studies showing that participants miss 25% fewer workdays. Health benefits administration companies additionally collaborate with healthcare providers to offer incentives like reduced premiums for completing preventive measures. Utilizing data analytics helps identify health trends, allowing customized initiatives that potentially save $3 for every $1 invested in wellness programs. Evaluating Health Benefits Administrators Evaluating health benefits administrators involves a careful analysis of various key factors that can profoundly impact your organization’s overall efficiency and employee satisfaction. To make an informed decision, consider these crucial aspects: Administration Costs and Fees: Verify the costs align with your budget and expected ROI. Technology Capabilities: Assess their ability to streamline processes through automation and self-service tools. Compliance and Audit Results: Review their track record in adhering to healthcare regulations, especially HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Claim Processing Speed and Accuracy: Analyze their efficiency in managing claims and customer service ratings to evaluate support for employees. Partnering With Insurance Providers When you partner with insurance providers, you’re not just securing coverage; you’re further shaping the healthcare experience for your employees. Health benefits administration companies play an essential role in customizing medical benefits solutions that fit your organization’s unique needs. They evaluate various insurance carriers, negotiating competitive rates and extensive options for you and your team. To guarantee a smooth process, these companies facilitate seamless enrollment and provide educational resources, so employees understand their benefits fully. They likewise monitor compliance with regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, making sure your partnerships adhere to legal requirements. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect from this partnership: Service Description Custom Solutions Customized medical benefits for your workforce Rate Negotiation Securing competitive rates from insurance carriers Enrollment Facilitation Streamlined processes for employee participation Educational Support Resources to help employees understand their benefits Compliance Monitoring Making sure adherence to federal and state regulations Trends and Challenges in Benefits Administration As the scenery of employee benefits evolves, staying informed about the latest trends and challenges in benefits administration is fundamental for organizations. You’ll notice that personalized benefits solutions are gaining traction, with 94% of companies enhancing their mental health support initiatives. Moreover, technology is becoming significant to reduce the administrative burden on HR professionals, with automated workflows simplifying enrollment processes. Here are some key trends and challenges: Steering through complex regulatory environments because of the rise of remote work. Continuous monitoring of compliance with federal regulations to avoid penalties. A demand for flexible benefits packages, as 80% of employees prefer better benefits over salary increases. Increased emphasis on employee well-being, reshaping how benefits are viewed and implemented. Understanding these factors is critical for crafting effective benefits strategies that meet both organizational goals and employee needs. Best Practices for Effective Benefits Management When managing employee benefits, streamlining enrollment processes is crucial for improving participation and reducing confusion. Implementing compliance monitoring strategies helps guarantee that your benefits offerings meet regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of penalties. Streamlined Enrollment Processes Effective benefits management relies heavily on streamlined enrollment processes, which greatly improve the experience for both employees and HR teams. By leveraging automated workflows, you can simplify sign-ups and reduce administrative time and errors. Implementing user-friendly HR software allows employees to easily compare and select benefits packages, boosting engagement. Here are some best practices to reflect on: Regular training for HR staff on the latest technology tools Utilizing self-service portals for employee-managed enrollment Tracking enrollment data to adjust benefits offerings Guaranteeing compliance with evolving regulations These strategies improve efficiency, empower employees, and guarantee your benefits package remains competitive and appealing. Compliance Monitoring Strategies Managing employee benefits effectively requires a strong focus on compliance monitoring strategies that guarantee adherence to various regulations. Health benefits administration companies regularly audit benefit plans to ascertain compliance with federal regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. They utilize technology tools to track legal changes across states, adjusting benefits packages for remote workers accordingly. Regular training sessions keep staff updated on compliance requirements, minimizing risks associated with non-compliance and protecting employee health information. Automated systems monitor claims processing and reporting, ensuring deadlines are met and reducing penalties for missed obligations. Proactive communication with employees about their rights and benefits nurtures a culture of compliance, enabling timely feedback and adjustments based on employee usage and satisfaction. Frequently Asked Questions What Does a Benefits Administration Company Do? A benefits administration company manages employee benefits packages, guaranteeing they’re designed and implemented effectively. You’ll find they streamline the enrollment process and provide resources that help employees understand their options. They likewise guarantee compliance with regulations, reducing the risk of penalties for your organization. What Is a Health Benefits Administrator? A health benefits administrator oversees the management of health insurance plans for organizations. You’ll handle enrollment, billing, claims processing, and guarantee compliance with regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act. Your role includes verifying employee eligibility and assisting in selecting suitable health plans. How Much Does a Benefits Admin Make? A benefits administrator typically earns between $50,000 and $75,000 per year in the U.S., depending on experience, location, and organization size. In urban areas or high-demand industries, salaries can exceed $90,000, especially with advanced certifications. Hourly wages range from $25 to $36. Furthermore, many benefits administrators receive bonuses or profit-sharing, which can increase overall compensation. With a projected 7% job growth rate, demand for these roles remains steady through 2031. Is Being a Benefits Administrator Hard? Yes, being a benefits administrator can be challenging. You’ll navigate complex regulations like HIPAA and the Affordable Care Act, requiring strong organizational skills for tasks such as enrollment and claims processing. Staying updated on changing laws is vital to avoid penalties and guarantee competitive offerings. The role additionally demands effective communication to address employee inquiries, and the administrative burden can lead to missed deadlines, so using technology to streamline processes is fundamental. Conclusion In conclusion, health benefits administration companies play an essential role in managing group health insurance plans for employers and employees. They guarantee compliance with regulations, streamline enrollment and claims processing, and leverage technology for efficient benefits management. By partnering with insurance providers and analyzing claims data, they help optimize costs and improve employee engagement. Comprehending these functions can aid employers in selecting the right administrator, eventually enhancing the overall effectiveness of their health benefits programs. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Does a Health Benefits Administration Company Do?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

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