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This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. I want to quit my job and open a bookstore I work in tax accounting. Tax season just ended and the overtime nearly killed me. I love my job but I’m tired of it. I’m also in my mid twenties and more or less feel like I settled down too soon. I work at a small firm and the owners are the best bosses I’ve ever had. I really enjoy the people I work with and I enjoy what I do. I’m well paid and have good benefits including 100% employer paid health insurance. But I’m starting to get tired of it. Lately I’ve been fantasizing about opening a bookstore. I’ve planned out the kinds of loans I would need, how I would acquire inventory, etc. It all feels so doable, but I would lose the stability afforded to me by my current job. I’m sure I would make less money, and I fear the bookstore wouldn’t make any money at all. I could switch to part-time hours at my current job, but I would lose my benefits and not make as much money. All that said, the bookstore is still calling my name. I’m dreaming of a store open in afternoons and evenings for people to shop at after work or school. I’d like to have seating and make it sort of a local “third place.” I’m inclined to think that my community would enjoy it, but I’m not sure how profitable it would be. What should I do? Write up a formal business plan, including market analysis, sales strategy, start-up costs, and financial projections (including what monthly sales you’d need to cover expenses). You’ll need that anyway, and that process will give you a lot more insight into whether it’s something you want to move forward with. Look at the American Booksellers Association, too. They have an “opening a bookstore” electronic kit they can send. But also, you should talk to some bookstore owners! Owning a bookstore is a very common dream, and often what people envision doesn’t line up with the realities of the work — which tend to involve long hours, small profit margins, and often more focus on business than books. That doesn’t mean you couldn’t do it successfully and happily, but you’d want to make sure that you understand exactly what’s involved and what your day-to-day life will be like. In fact, the best possible thing you could do might be to work part-time in a bookstore for a while and see it up close. 2. My company disciplined a coworker for sharing info everyone already knew I work in a niche field in a town with a handful of businesses in that field. Many of us know each other and have worked at the different businesses over time. In my workplace, there’s a high awareness of confidentiality about who’s applying for jobs, as there should be, but we had a situation come up that I’ve been curious about. Sally had worked with me at Company A, then went to work for Company B. Some of our part-time staff at A also worked part-time at B. My coworker Lyle and I supervised these part-timers. When we had an opening at A for a different job, Lyle was on the hiring committee. I had previously worked at B, and several people I knew there mentioned that Sally was applying for this new opening at A. One day, one of the mutual part-timers told us that Sally was applying, and had talked to them about it at B. Sally had been very open about it, and it was no secret, so many of us found out. Later, a different part-time staff person was chatting with Lyle about the position, mentioned Sally, and Lyle confirmed through conversation that Sally was applying. This was overheard and heads rolled! Lyle was disciplined, with the threat that he could have been fired for breaking confidentiality in the hiring process. Normally this would be appropriate, and Lyle probably shouldn’t have been talking about the hiring at all. But it did feel odd, since most of us at A already knew Sally was applying because she’d told multiple people, including people who worked here. Sally ended up leaving for a third business and is currently applying for a job at the fourth, which I know about through this network even though A isn’t involved at all! Sally habitually broadcasts this kind of information. Of people I know in our field, this actually isn’t uncommon. Anyway, I was reminded of me of this incident, and I’m curious what you think of it. It’s great that your company takes applicant confidentiality seriously, but threatening to fire Lyle in this particular set of circumstances was a bit extreme. Or at least it was if they actually threatened to fire him. But did they? Or was the conversation more like, “We take applicant confidentiality really seriously and while we know that in this case the candidate was sharing the news widely herself, you still need to be careful because it’s not up to you to decide who hears about it, and there’s too much room for error if you assume you know who already knows. While we understand what happened here, we take the rule seriously enough that breaking it could be fireable, and it’s important that you don’t do it again.” An acknowledgement of the specific circumstances and an explanation that the policy still applies and why, along with a warning that it’s a job requirement to handle confidential information with discretion and a reminder of the potential consequences, would be reasonable. 3. I‘m getting too many requests for practice exchange I work in professional services in higher education (in the EU). Two years ago I started to be active on LinkedIn. The goal was to advertise our great services and attract researchers to our university, but I now have a very large presence there. Recently, I have been overwhelmed with international colleagues wanting to do a study visit to our unit. They want to learn how to build or improve services at their own universities or sometimes even countries. This is a normal thing to do in my sector, but now we get monthly/weekly requests. We are a team of seven, mostly part-time, and my colleagues (who I manage) aren’t keen to host all these people who basically are fans of mine from the internet. Also, I get invited to give talks about our unit as well, so lots of info is already available in recordings anyway. Nevertheless, I’m having trouble just rejecting everyone. I also went on helpful study trips to the elite UK universities when we built the unit. How many should I accept? What can I offer instead? And how do I tell the people „you’re the fourth person this month to ask me this?” How many you should accept depends on how much time and energy they take up and how much of both those things you’re willing to invest, so I can’t answer that — but it’s very reasonable to put limits on it. You’re seeing that more people are interested than you can accommodate, so you already know you’ll need to say no to some of them; the question is just how many you can reasonably say yes to. Since your colleagues are involved, too, sit down as a group and decide what’s practical. (And you’re not locking yourself into whatever you decide; if it turns out to still be too many, or if it’s not as onerous as you’d thought, you can adjust that number up or down next year.) But the fact that you already have lots of info available in recordings is great because you can point people to those. It’s completely fine to say, “We’ve fully booked the slots we have available for study visits this year (or this quarter, or whatever time period makes sense), but we’ve compiled some information that might be useful” and then link them to it. 4. Is bad eyesight a disability for the purpose of job applications? I’ve run into this question on employment questionnaires and job applications: Do you have a visible/non-visible disability? I have pathetic eyesight and wear glasses/contact lenses as a correction. I wouldn’t be able to function properly without these corrections. I generally don’t think of my condition as a disability, because wearing glasses is so common. But what do I say to answer this question? Technically, I do have a disability, because I can’t function without my lenses. But I feel like I’m faking a label to call it a disability. I don’t know how to answer this question. Currently, I have been saying that yes, I have an invisible disability (because I wear contact lenses, so nobody knows how bad my vision really is). Am I lying? I am wondering if “invisible disability” is usually referring to a condition that doesn’t have any kind of mechanical aid (for sight, hearing, locomotion). You can answer this however you want and it will have absolutely no ramifications for you, whichever you choose. Assuming you’re in the U.S., they’re only asking because companies with more than 100 employees and companies with government contracts over a certain dollar amount have to report the demographic makeup of their applicants and employees to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (in aggregate, not individually). They’re not allowed to consider your answers when they consider your candidacy; in fact, they’re legally required to store the information separately from the rest of your application. (The exception to this is veteran status; in some cases employers are permitted to give preference to veterans.) They’re also not legally allowed to penalize you for not answering, and they won’t check back on your answers to ensure they match up with info they get about you later on. (So if you said you had a disability when you don’t appear to, they’re not going to ask you about it or even notice or care. Same thing if you said you didn’t have one when you do. This is just about collecting info in the aggregate for reporting.) If you consider your vision issues to be significant enough to be a disability, answer yes. If you don’t, answer no. It will not matter either way! 5. Addressing a federal layoff in my resume and when networking I’m one of the thousands of government employees who were recently RIFed. I’m searching for jobs (using your resources!) and am unsure whether and how to put this layoff on my resume and cover letter. Technically, I’m still on admin leave, so do I put the date on my resume as July 2014-present or July 2014-June 2025? Do I address this in my cover letter? I can’t decide if people will take pity on me or if it will come off as desperate. I also struggle with how to address this in networking situations: do I still work there or am I a former employee? It can get exhausting having people tell me how sorry they are when all I really want is to have someone say “let’s get you a job.” You can do either! “To present” would be accurate because technically you’re still employed, just on leave. “To June 2025″ would also be fine if June is the date when your employment will end. It really won’t matter much either way. You don’t need to address it in your cover letter at all. In networking situations, you can say, “I work as a taco handler for the Department of Dinner, but my job is one of the ones being cut.” View the full article

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PayPal announced today that it will launch a new loyalty program this summer, enabling U.S. users to earn rewards on their holdings of PayPal USD (PYUSD). The company will offer a 3.7% annual reward rate in PYUSD for balances held in PayPal or Venmo wallets. The initiative marks a significant step in PayPal’s effort to expand the utility of its U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin. Once launched, users will be able to use earned rewards to make purchases through PayPal Checkout, send funds to other PayPal or Venmo users, convert rewards to fiat or other cryptocurrencies, and fund international remittances through Xoom without incurring transaction fees. “At PayPal, we believe stablecoins have the power to reshape the future of commerce as the foundation for the next generation of payments. Combining this innovative technology with our expansive global network allows us to help all users thrive in the world economy,” said Alex Chriss, President and CEO, PayPal. “Consumers and businesses use PYUSD today for commerce, crypto, peer-to-peer transfers and B2B payments. We’re demonstrating our commitment to an innovative, commerce-ready ecosystem by enabling it for the settlement of cross border transfers, vendor payments and in the future for additional payment use cases like payouts and bill pay.” Rewards Structure and Accessibility Under the new program, users will accrue rewards daily at the anticipated annual rate of 3.7%, with payouts issued monthly in PYUSD and credited to the user’s Cryptocurrencies Hub. Participation in the program will be optional, and users can opt in or out at any time. The PYUSD rewards can be utilized immediately for a variety of use cases, including purchases, transfers, or exchanges within the PayPal and Venmo ecosystems. According to the announcement, PYUSD is designed to be commerce-ready, allowing users to buy, send, and spend the stablecoin both domestically and internationally. Eligibility and Conditions PayPal noted that while the program will be broadly available to U.S. users, rewards may not be accessible to users based in New York State at launch. Additionally, only Venmo consumer accounts are eligible to participate in the rewards program; Venmo Teen Accounts and Business Profile users will not be eligible. The company clarified that the 3.7% rate is anticipated at the time of launch but is not guaranteed. “The PYUSD rewards rate will be determined at all times in PayPal’s sole discretion and is not guaranteed. PayPal reserves the right to change the PYUSD rewards rate at any time,” according to the company. The PYUSD rewards program is scheduled to go live in Summer 2025 and will be subject to terms and conditions that will be made available upon launch. This article, "PayPal to Launch PYUSD Rewards Program with 3.7% Annual Return" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

PayPal announced today that it will launch a new loyalty program this summer, enabling U.S. users to earn rewards on their holdings of PayPal USD (PYUSD). The company will offer a 3.7% annual reward rate in PYUSD for balances held in PayPal or Venmo wallets. The initiative marks a significant step in PayPal’s effort to expand the utility of its U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin. Once launched, users will be able to use earned rewards to make purchases through PayPal Checkout, send funds to other PayPal or Venmo users, convert rewards to fiat or other cryptocurrencies, and fund international remittances through Xoom without incurring transaction fees. “At PayPal, we believe stablecoins have the power to reshape the future of commerce as the foundation for the next generation of payments. Combining this innovative technology with our expansive global network allows us to help all users thrive in the world economy,” said Alex Chriss, President and CEO, PayPal. “Consumers and businesses use PYUSD today for commerce, crypto, peer-to-peer transfers and B2B payments. We’re demonstrating our commitment to an innovative, commerce-ready ecosystem by enabling it for the settlement of cross border transfers, vendor payments and in the future for additional payment use cases like payouts and bill pay.” Rewards Structure and Accessibility Under the new program, users will accrue rewards daily at the anticipated annual rate of 3.7%, with payouts issued monthly in PYUSD and credited to the user’s Cryptocurrencies Hub. Participation in the program will be optional, and users can opt in or out at any time. The PYUSD rewards can be utilized immediately for a variety of use cases, including purchases, transfers, or exchanges within the PayPal and Venmo ecosystems. According to the announcement, PYUSD is designed to be commerce-ready, allowing users to buy, send, and spend the stablecoin both domestically and internationally. Eligibility and Conditions PayPal noted that while the program will be broadly available to U.S. users, rewards may not be accessible to users based in New York State at launch. Additionally, only Venmo consumer accounts are eligible to participate in the rewards program; Venmo Teen Accounts and Business Profile users will not be eligible. The company clarified that the 3.7% rate is anticipated at the time of launch but is not guaranteed. “The PYUSD rewards rate will be determined at all times in PayPal’s sole discretion and is not guaranteed. PayPal reserves the right to change the PYUSD rewards rate at any time,” according to the company. The PYUSD rewards program is scheduled to go live in Summer 2025 and will be subject to terms and conditions that will be made available upon launch. This article, "PayPal to Launch PYUSD Rewards Program with 3.7% Annual Return" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Create Magical Experiences: Hiring a professional Santa enhances holiday events, fostering joy and excitement that resonate long after the celebration. Customization Options: Tailor the Santa experience to suit the theme and goals of your event, including personalized stories and activities for a unique touch. Experience Matters: Choose a Santa with ample experience and verified credibility to ensure a professional encounter that engages all guests. Understand Pricing: Budget for Santa services, which typically range from $100 to $200 per hour, to ensure alignment with your overall event strategy. Plan Ahead: Secure your Santa well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during the busy holiday season when top performers are often booked early. Use Santa as Marketing: Integrating Santa for hire services into your holiday plans can enhance brand visibility and strengthen community relationships, benefiting both employee motivation and customer engagement. The holiday season brings joy and excitement, and what better way to spread that cheer than by hiring a Santa? With “Santa for hire” services popping up everywhere, you can create magical moments for your family and friends. Whether it’s for a cozy gathering or a big corporate event, having a professional Santa can elevate your celebration to new heights. Overview of Santa For Hire Services Santa for hire services provide an opportunity for small businesses to create memorable experiences during the holiday season. You can engage professional Santas for a variety of events, including family gatherings, corporate parties, and community outreach programs. These services typically include personalized visits from a trained Santa, photo opportunities, and interaction with guests. Hiring Santa not only enhances holiday cheer but also promotes employee engagement and customer satisfaction. When selecting a Santa for hire, focus on their experience and ability to connect with your audience. Carefully consider your staffing requirements to ensure a seamless experience. This decision can positively impact your workplace culture and foster team building among employees during the festive season. Utilizing Santa for hire services can also serve as a unique marketing tool. Creating magical moments attracts potential customers, enhances brand visibility, and strengthens community relationships. By integrating these services into your holiday plans, you add value to both employee motivation and customer engagement. Benefits of Hiring a Santa Hiring a professional Santa creates unforgettable experiences for your event, whether it’s a corporate gathering or a family celebration. Here’s how hiring a Santa can enhance your holiday atmosphere. Creating Magical Experiences Creating magical experiences is essential for engaging both employees and customers. A professional Santa brings joy and excitement, promoting a positive workplace culture. Santas can facilitate interactions, allowing guests to take memorable photos, share wishes, and create an enchanting environment that resonates long after the event. These experiences reinforce bonds within teams, increasing employee engagement and satisfaction. Customization Options Customization options abound when hiring a Santa. You can tailor the Santa experience to align with your specific event’s theme and purpose. Some agencies offer additional services like personalized stories or unique activities during visits, allowing for a unique touch. This level of customization ensures that your Santa aligns with your branding and caters to your audience’s preferences. Making adjustments to the character’s appearance or style can enhance the relevance of the interaction, contributing to a cohesive experience that strengthens employee retention and reflects your organizational values. How to Choose the Right Santa Choosing the right Santa for hire enhances your holiday events, making them more memorable for employees and customers. Assessing factors like experience, credibility, and pricing is key to ensuring that your selection aligns with your goals. Evaluating Experience and Credibility Evaluate a Santa’s experience and credibility to ensure you select a professional who meets your business needs. Many Santas possess extensive experience, with a significant percentage between the ages of 62 and 74, bringing a level of maturity to their role. Approximately 60.5% of Santas have attended Santa school, indicating a commitment to their craft and professionalism. Assess their previous engagements; many Santas perform at malls, department stores, company parties, church pageants, and charity events. This variety reflects their adaptability in different settings, which is crucial for enhancing workplace culture and driving employee engagement during your events. Understanding Pricing Structures Understanding pricing structures allows you to budget effectively for your Santa hire. Hourly rates typically range from $100 to $200, depending on experience and event duration. For full-season gigs, the starting rate can be as low as $75 per hour. Consider your staffing budget and determine how hiring a Santa fits within your overall employee engagement strategy. Investing in a quality Santa enhances staff morale and creates a festive atmosphere that benefits everyone involved. Popular Santa For Hire Companies Explore reputable companies and services that specialize in providing Santa Claus for hire, effectively enhancing your holiday events. HireSanta.com HireSanta.com offers real-bearded Santa Claus entertainers for hire across the nation. This company gained attention on Shark Tank and specializes in Santa staffing for malls, venues, and retail locations. They provide engaging services, including virtual video chats with Santa starting at $49, making it easy for your small business to connect with families while enhancing customer engagement. GigSalad and The Bash GigSalad and The Bash are event planning platforms designed for small businesses looking to hire Santa Claus performers. These platforms list multiple Santa options available for various locations, including Riverside, CA. You can compare prices, read reviews, and book a Santa that fits your specific needs, ensuring you choose a performer that aligns with your event goals. Star Brite Entertainment Based in Riverside, CA, Star Brite Entertainment offers professional Santa Claus actors for hire. They provide unique services such as individual “lap time” experiences, photo opportunities, and readings of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” This personal touch strengthens employee engagement and fosters a joyful atmosphere for holiday gatherings. Utilizing these services not only enhances the warmth of your holiday celebrations but also facilitates an environment conducive to building employee morale and promoting community relationships. Tips for a Successful Santa Booking Choose the Right Santa: Opt for professional, real-bearded Santa Claus performers if authenticity is a priority for your event. Real-bearded Santas typically charge more but deliver a genuine experience that resonates with guests. If a real beard isn’t necessary, consider high-quality Santas with fake beards. They can also create memorable interactions. Check Credentials and Reviews: Ensure Santa performers have relevant credentials, extensive experience, and clear background checks. Companies like HireSanta emphasize these qualifications. Read reviews on platforms like GigSalad to assess performance quality from past clients and gain insight into how well the Santa interacts with children and adults. Plan Ahead: Book your Santa well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times. Quality performers often book up early, sometimes as far in advance as summer. Early planning ensures you secure a Santa that meets your budget and staffing requirements. Tailor the Experience: Customize the Santa experience to align with your event’s theme and goals. Consider incorporating personalized stories or activities unique to your organization. This strategy fosters employee engagement and enhances workplace culture through shared holiday moments. Budget Wisely: Understand the pricing structure for Santa services, which typically ranges from $100 to $200 per hour. Evaluate these costs against your staffing budget and overall event objectives. Investing in a quality Santa can boost employee morale and contribute to a festive atmosphere that benefits all participants. Conclusion Hiring a professional Santa can truly transform your holiday celebrations into unforgettable experiences. By bringing joy and excitement to your events you not only enhance the festive atmosphere but also foster stronger connections among employees and customers. When you choose the right Santa for hire you’re investing in creating magical moments that resonate with your audience. Personalized interactions and unique activities can make your gathering stand out while boosting morale and engagement. As you plan your holiday events remember that a little extra effort in selecting a quality Santa can lead to lasting memories and a more vibrant community spirit. So go ahead and make this holiday season one to remember with the help of a professional Santa. Frequently Asked Questions What are Santa for hire services? Santa for hire services provide professional Santa Claus characters for various events during the holiday season. They create magical experiences through personalized visits, photo opportunities, and engaging interactions, enhancing celebrations for families and businesses alike. How can hiring a Santa enhance workplace culture? Hiring a professional Santa can boost employee morale and engagement by fostering a joyful holiday atmosphere. Santa’s presence encourages interactions among employees, creating memorable moments that promote team building and strengthen workplace relationships. What factors should I consider when choosing a Santa for hire? When selecting a Santa, consider his experience, credibility, and pricing. Look for reviews and check credentials to ensure professionalism. Also, assess how well the Santa connects with your audience to make the experience more enjoyable. What is the typical cost of hiring a Santa? Hourly rates for hiring a Santa generally range from $100 to $200, depending on the performer’s experience and location. It’s essential to understand the pricing structure to budget effectively for your event. How can hiring a Santa serve as a marketing tool? A hired Santa can attract potential customers and enhance brand visibility, especially during the holiday season. Unique experiences like customized visits can strengthen community relationships and leave a lasting impression on guests. What types of services do popular Santa for hire companies offer? Popular companies like HireSanta.com and Star Brite Entertainment provide a variety of services, including real-bearded Santa visits, virtual video chats, and unique experiences like storytelling sessions. These options cater to different event needs and goals. When should I book a Santa for hire service? To secure your preferred Santa, book as early as possible. Many services fill quickly during the holiday season, so planning ahead ensures you get the right performer for your event. How can I personalize the Santa experience for my event? To tailor the Santa experience, consider incorporating personalized stories or unique activities that align with your event theme. This customization ensures the visit resonates with guests and reflects your organization’s values. Image Via Envato This article, "Experience the Magic of Santa for Hire This Holiday Season" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Create Magical Experiences: Hiring a professional Santa enhances holiday events, fostering joy and excitement that resonate long after the celebration. Customization Options: Tailor the Santa experience to suit the theme and goals of your event, including personalized stories and activities for a unique touch. Experience Matters: Choose a Santa with ample experience and verified credibility to ensure a professional encounter that engages all guests. Understand Pricing: Budget for Santa services, which typically range from $100 to $200 per hour, to ensure alignment with your overall event strategy. Plan Ahead: Secure your Santa well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during the busy holiday season when top performers are often booked early. Use Santa as Marketing: Integrating Santa for hire services into your holiday plans can enhance brand visibility and strengthen community relationships, benefiting both employee motivation and customer engagement. The holiday season brings joy and excitement, and what better way to spread that cheer than by hiring a Santa? With “Santa for hire” services popping up everywhere, you can create magical moments for your family and friends. Whether it’s for a cozy gathering or a big corporate event, having a professional Santa can elevate your celebration to new heights. Overview of Santa For Hire Services Santa for hire services provide an opportunity for small businesses to create memorable experiences during the holiday season. You can engage professional Santas for a variety of events, including family gatherings, corporate parties, and community outreach programs. These services typically include personalized visits from a trained Santa, photo opportunities, and interaction with guests. Hiring Santa not only enhances holiday cheer but also promotes employee engagement and customer satisfaction. When selecting a Santa for hire, focus on their experience and ability to connect with your audience. Carefully consider your staffing requirements to ensure a seamless experience. This decision can positively impact your workplace culture and foster team building among employees during the festive season. Utilizing Santa for hire services can also serve as a unique marketing tool. Creating magical moments attracts potential customers, enhances brand visibility, and strengthens community relationships. By integrating these services into your holiday plans, you add value to both employee motivation and customer engagement. Benefits of Hiring a Santa Hiring a professional Santa creates unforgettable experiences for your event, whether it’s a corporate gathering or a family celebration. Here’s how hiring a Santa can enhance your holiday atmosphere. Creating Magical Experiences Creating magical experiences is essential for engaging both employees and customers. A professional Santa brings joy and excitement, promoting a positive workplace culture. Santas can facilitate interactions, allowing guests to take memorable photos, share wishes, and create an enchanting environment that resonates long after the event. These experiences reinforce bonds within teams, increasing employee engagement and satisfaction. Customization Options Customization options abound when hiring a Santa. You can tailor the Santa experience to align with your specific event’s theme and purpose. Some agencies offer additional services like personalized stories or unique activities during visits, allowing for a unique touch. This level of customization ensures that your Santa aligns with your branding and caters to your audience’s preferences. Making adjustments to the character’s appearance or style can enhance the relevance of the interaction, contributing to a cohesive experience that strengthens employee retention and reflects your organizational values. How to Choose the Right Santa Choosing the right Santa for hire enhances your holiday events, making them more memorable for employees and customers. Assessing factors like experience, credibility, and pricing is key to ensuring that your selection aligns with your goals. Evaluating Experience and Credibility Evaluate a Santa’s experience and credibility to ensure you select a professional who meets your business needs. Many Santas possess extensive experience, with a significant percentage between the ages of 62 and 74, bringing a level of maturity to their role. Approximately 60.5% of Santas have attended Santa school, indicating a commitment to their craft and professionalism. Assess their previous engagements; many Santas perform at malls, department stores, company parties, church pageants, and charity events. This variety reflects their adaptability in different settings, which is crucial for enhancing workplace culture and driving employee engagement during your events. Understanding Pricing Structures Understanding pricing structures allows you to budget effectively for your Santa hire. Hourly rates typically range from $100 to $200, depending on experience and event duration. For full-season gigs, the starting rate can be as low as $75 per hour. Consider your staffing budget and determine how hiring a Santa fits within your overall employee engagement strategy. Investing in a quality Santa enhances staff morale and creates a festive atmosphere that benefits everyone involved. Popular Santa For Hire Companies Explore reputable companies and services that specialize in providing Santa Claus for hire, effectively enhancing your holiday events. HireSanta.com HireSanta.com offers real-bearded Santa Claus entertainers for hire across the nation. This company gained attention on Shark Tank and specializes in Santa staffing for malls, venues, and retail locations. They provide engaging services, including virtual video chats with Santa starting at $49, making it easy for your small business to connect with families while enhancing customer engagement. GigSalad and The Bash GigSalad and The Bash are event planning platforms designed for small businesses looking to hire Santa Claus performers. These platforms list multiple Santa options available for various locations, including Riverside, CA. You can compare prices, read reviews, and book a Santa that fits your specific needs, ensuring you choose a performer that aligns with your event goals. Star Brite Entertainment Based in Riverside, CA, Star Brite Entertainment offers professional Santa Claus actors for hire. They provide unique services such as individual “lap time” experiences, photo opportunities, and readings of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” This personal touch strengthens employee engagement and fosters a joyful atmosphere for holiday gatherings. Utilizing these services not only enhances the warmth of your holiday celebrations but also facilitates an environment conducive to building employee morale and promoting community relationships. Tips for a Successful Santa Booking Choose the Right Santa: Opt for professional, real-bearded Santa Claus performers if authenticity is a priority for your event. Real-bearded Santas typically charge more but deliver a genuine experience that resonates with guests. If a real beard isn’t necessary, consider high-quality Santas with fake beards. They can also create memorable interactions. Check Credentials and Reviews: Ensure Santa performers have relevant credentials, extensive experience, and clear background checks. Companies like HireSanta emphasize these qualifications. Read reviews on platforms like GigSalad to assess performance quality from past clients and gain insight into how well the Santa interacts with children and adults. Plan Ahead: Book your Santa well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times. Quality performers often book up early, sometimes as far in advance as summer. Early planning ensures you secure a Santa that meets your budget and staffing requirements. Tailor the Experience: Customize the Santa experience to align with your event’s theme and goals. Consider incorporating personalized stories or activities unique to your organization. This strategy fosters employee engagement and enhances workplace culture through shared holiday moments. Budget Wisely: Understand the pricing structure for Santa services, which typically ranges from $100 to $200 per hour. Evaluate these costs against your staffing budget and overall event objectives. Investing in a quality Santa can boost employee morale and contribute to a festive atmosphere that benefits all participants. Conclusion Hiring a professional Santa can truly transform your holiday celebrations into unforgettable experiences. By bringing joy and excitement to your events you not only enhance the festive atmosphere but also foster stronger connections among employees and customers. When you choose the right Santa for hire you’re investing in creating magical moments that resonate with your audience. Personalized interactions and unique activities can make your gathering stand out while boosting morale and engagement. As you plan your holiday events remember that a little extra effort in selecting a quality Santa can lead to lasting memories and a more vibrant community spirit. So go ahead and make this holiday season one to remember with the help of a professional Santa. Frequently Asked Questions What are Santa for hire services? Santa for hire services provide professional Santa Claus characters for various events during the holiday season. They create magical experiences through personalized visits, photo opportunities, and engaging interactions, enhancing celebrations for families and businesses alike. How can hiring a Santa enhance workplace culture? Hiring a professional Santa can boost employee morale and engagement by fostering a joyful holiday atmosphere. Santa’s presence encourages interactions among employees, creating memorable moments that promote team building and strengthen workplace relationships. What factors should I consider when choosing a Santa for hire? When selecting a Santa, consider his experience, credibility, and pricing. Look for reviews and check credentials to ensure professionalism. Also, assess how well the Santa connects with your audience to make the experience more enjoyable. What is the typical cost of hiring a Santa? Hourly rates for hiring a Santa generally range from $100 to $200, depending on the performer’s experience and location. It’s essential to understand the pricing structure to budget effectively for your event. How can hiring a Santa serve as a marketing tool? A hired Santa can attract potential customers and enhance brand visibility, especially during the holiday season. Unique experiences like customized visits can strengthen community relationships and leave a lasting impression on guests. What types of services do popular Santa for hire companies offer? Popular companies like HireSanta.com and Star Brite Entertainment provide a variety of services, including real-bearded Santa visits, virtual video chats, and unique experiences like storytelling sessions. These options cater to different event needs and goals. When should I book a Santa for hire service? To secure your preferred Santa, book as early as possible. Many services fill quickly during the holiday season, so planning ahead ensures you get the right performer for your event. How can I personalize the Santa experience for my event? To tailor the Santa experience, consider incorporating personalized stories or unique activities that align with your event theme. This customization ensures the visit resonates with guests and reflects your organization’s values. Image Via Envato This article, "Experience the Magic of Santa for Hire This Holiday Season" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Growing Market Demand: The pet sitting industry is experiencing increased demand, driven by rising pet ownership and busy lifestyles, presenting a lucrative opportunity for aspiring pet sitters. Diverse Service Offerings: A successful pet sitting business should consider various services, including in-home pet sitting, dog walking, pet boarding, and training, allowing for tailored growth strategies. Thorough Market Research: Conducting extensive market research is essential to understand your competition and target audience, ensuring your services meet local demand effectively. Solid Business Plan: A well-structured business plan outlining services, pricing, and financial projections is crucial for sustainable growth and attracting potential investors. Legal Registration and Pricing Strategies: Choosing the right legal structure for your business and establishing a competitive pricing strategy are critical to compliance and profitability. Building Client Relationships: Effective marketing, networking, and maintaining professionalism are vital for building and retaining a strong client base in the pet sitting business. If you love animals and dream of turning that passion into a profitable venture, starting a pet sitting business might be the perfect fit for you. With more pet owners seeking reliable care for their furry friends while they’re away, the demand for trustworthy pet sitters is on the rise. This growing trend offers a fantastic opportunity to create a flexible and rewarding career. In this guide, you’ll discover essential steps to launch your pet sitting business successfully. From understanding the basics of pet care to marketing your services effectively, you’ll gain valuable insights that will help you stand out in a competitive market. Let’s dive into the world of pet sitting and explore how you can turn your love for animals into a thriving business. Understanding the Pet Sitting Business Understanding the pet sitting business involves recognizing its market demand and the variety of services offered. As an aspiring entrepreneur in this field, you’ll identify opportunities that meet pet owners’ needs. Market Demand and Opportunities The demand for pet sitting services has steadily increased. Factors contributing to this growth include the rise in pet ownership and the busy lifestyles of pet owners. Market research shows that 67% of U.S. households own a pet, indicating a significant target audience. Many pet owners prioritize quality care, creating opportunities for quality service providers. Focusing on customer acquisition and tailoring your approach to attract clients ensures a profitable business model. Types of Pet Sitting Services Offered Diverse services enhance your offerings in the pet sitting business. Consider these common services: In-home pet sitting: Care for pets within their home environment. Dog walking: Regular walks to keep pets active and happy. Pet boarding: Providing a safe place for pets when owners are away. Pet training: Basic obedience training enhances pet behavior and owner satisfaction. Each service targets specific needs, allowing you to develop a growth strategy that suits your expertise and market demand. Tailoring your services to meet local preferences can also differentiate your business. Essential Steps to Start Your Business Starting a pet sitting business involves laying a solid foundation. Follow these essential steps to ensure a successful launch. Conducting Market Research Conducting thorough market research helps you understand the competitive landscape. Analyze existing pet care services in your area to identify key players and their offerings. Use resources like local pet stores, online listings, and social media to gather information on pricing and services. Recognizing your target audience’s preferences allows you to tailor your services and differentiate your business. According to the American Pet Products Association, 67% of U.S. households own pets, highlighting a significant market potential. Creating a Business Plan Creating a detailed business plan defines your business model and growth strategy. Outline your services, target audience, and pricing structure. Include financial projections that account for startup costs, expected revenue, and profit margins. Identify funding options like loans or angel investors to secure initial capital. Execute effective marketing strategies, including social media and SEO, to attract customers. Establishing a comprehensive business plan also aids in gaining legal registrations, such as DBA (Doing Business As) or LLC. This structured approach enhances your chances for sustainability and scalability. Legal and Financial Considerations Starting a pet sitting business involves navigating legal and financial aspects crucial for success. You’ll make key decisions regarding your business structure, registration, and pricing to ensure compliance and profitability. Registering Your Business When you start a pet sitting business, registering your business is an essential step. Choose a legal structure like a Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation. A sole proprietorship offers simplicity but doesn’t separate personal and business assets, leading to personal liability. An LLC, however, provides that separation and liability protection, requiring you to maintain a business bank account and file annual financial statements. Starting as a corporation involves more complex regulations but offers distinct advantages in asset protection. Register with appropriate state and federal agencies to ensure compliance. Obtain any necessary licenses and permits related to animal care in your area. Seeking legal advice can guide you in choosing the best structure for your business model. Setting Your Pricing Structure Establishing your pricing structure is a critical component in your pet sitting business. Consider factors like market rates, the services you offer, and your target audience’s willingness to pay. Conduct market research to analyze competitor pricing and identify gaps in service offerings. Develop a reasonable price point that reflects your services’ value while considering your costs and desired profit margin. Create tiered service packages or discounts for repeat customers to enhance your sales funnel. A clear pricing structure helps in customer acquisition and builds trust, making your services more appealing. Don’t forget to account for taxes and other expenses in your pricing strategy to ensure sustainable cash flow. Building Your Client Base Building a solid client base forms the foundation of your pet sitting business. Focus on targeted strategies to attract and retain clients effectively. Marketing Strategies Implement effective marketing strategies to increase visibility. Utilize digital marketing techniques, such as SEO and social media, to reach a broad audience. Create a professional website showcasing your services, client testimonials, and pricing. Use email marketing to provide updates and build relationships with previous clients. Consistent branding across all platforms reinforces trust and credibility. Consider local advertising and partnerships with pet-related businesses to broaden your reach. Networking with Pet Owners Network with pet owners to expand your client base. Attend community events, dog parks, and pet expos to meet potential clients. Join local pet owner groups on social media platforms to engage with your target audience and promote your services. Collaborate with veterinarians and pet supply stores to offer referral programs. Building strong relationships within the community encourages word-of-mouth referrals, essential for customer acquisition in a competitive market. Professionalism and Best Practices Maintaining professionalism and adhering to best practices is vital for your pet sitting business. By prioritizing care and effective client communication, you can establish a reputable brand and foster strong relationships with clients. Providing Excellent Care Providing excellent care is the cornerstone of your pet sitting business. Ensure you understand and meet the specific needs of each pet, including dietary requirements, exercise routines, and medical histories. Use checklists to track daily care tasks and routines. Familiarity with pet first-aid and CPR strengthens your qualifications and enhances client trust. Regular training from industry organizations, such as Pet Sitters International (PSI), can keep your skills sharp and your standards high. Exceptional care leads to satisfied clients and encourages repeat business, an essential component of your customer acquisition strategy. Communication with Clients Effective communication with clients strengthens relationships and reinforces client trust in your services. Initiate contact promptly when clients inquire about your services. Set clear expectations regarding services offered, availability, and pricing structures, laying the groundwork for a transparent business model. Use digital communication tools, such as email and text messaging, to provide updates on their pets and address concerns as they arise. Regularly ask for feedback to help refine your services and tailor your offerings to meet client preferences. Active engagement through social media enhances client connection and promotes your brand while showcasing client testimonials and pet care successes. Conclusion Starting a pet sitting business can be a rewarding journey that combines your love for animals with entrepreneurial spirit. By focusing on quality care and effective marketing strategies, you can carve out a niche in this growing market. Remember to stay committed to professionalism and continuously enhance your skills. Building strong relationships with clients will not only help you retain them but also encourage referrals. With the right approach and dedication, you’ll create a thriving business that brings joy to both you and the pets you care for. Embrace the opportunity and watch your passion turn into a successful venture. Frequently Asked Questions What is a pet sitting business? A pet sitting business involves caring for pets while their owners are away, providing services like in-home visits, dog walking, pet boarding, and training. It caters to the growing number of pet owners seeking reliable care for their furry friends. How is demand for pet sitting services rising? With 67% of U.S. households owning pets, the demand for trustworthy pet care has surged, especially as more people lead busy lives and seek reliable sitters for their animals. What are the key steps to starting a pet sitting business? Essential steps include conducting market research to understand local demand, creating a detailed business plan, registering your business, and establishing a pricing structure that aligns with market rates. What services can I offer in my pet sitting business? You can offer various services such as in-home pet sitting, dog walking, pet boarding, and pet training, tailored to meet the specific needs of your local clientele. How can I attract and retain clients in my pet sitting business? Utilize digital marketing strategies like SEO and social media, create a professional website, network within the community, and maintain excellent communication to build trust and encourage word-of-mouth referrals. Why is professionalism important in a pet sitting business? Professionalism ensures high-quality service and builds client trust. Providing tailored care, maintaining clear communication, and staying updated on pet first-aid practices enhances your reputation and promotes repeat business. What legal considerations should I be aware of? Registering your business and choosing a legal structure, such as a Sole Proprietorship or LLC, is essential for compliance and liability protection. Additionally, ensure your pricing reflects market rates and covers costs effectively. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Guide on How to Start a Pet Sitting Business for Animal Lovers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Growing Market Demand: The pet sitting industry is experiencing increased demand, driven by rising pet ownership and busy lifestyles, presenting a lucrative opportunity for aspiring pet sitters. Diverse Service Offerings: A successful pet sitting business should consider various services, including in-home pet sitting, dog walking, pet boarding, and training, allowing for tailored growth strategies. Thorough Market Research: Conducting extensive market research is essential to understand your competition and target audience, ensuring your services meet local demand effectively. Solid Business Plan: A well-structured business plan outlining services, pricing, and financial projections is crucial for sustainable growth and attracting potential investors. Legal Registration and Pricing Strategies: Choosing the right legal structure for your business and establishing a competitive pricing strategy are critical to compliance and profitability. Building Client Relationships: Effective marketing, networking, and maintaining professionalism are vital for building and retaining a strong client base in the pet sitting business. If you love animals and dream of turning that passion into a profitable venture, starting a pet sitting business might be the perfect fit for you. With more pet owners seeking reliable care for their furry friends while they’re away, the demand for trustworthy pet sitters is on the rise. This growing trend offers a fantastic opportunity to create a flexible and rewarding career. In this guide, you’ll discover essential steps to launch your pet sitting business successfully. From understanding the basics of pet care to marketing your services effectively, you’ll gain valuable insights that will help you stand out in a competitive market. Let’s dive into the world of pet sitting and explore how you can turn your love for animals into a thriving business. Understanding the Pet Sitting Business Understanding the pet sitting business involves recognizing its market demand and the variety of services offered. As an aspiring entrepreneur in this field, you’ll identify opportunities that meet pet owners’ needs. Market Demand and Opportunities The demand for pet sitting services has steadily increased. Factors contributing to this growth include the rise in pet ownership and the busy lifestyles of pet owners. Market research shows that 67% of U.S. households own a pet, indicating a significant target audience. Many pet owners prioritize quality care, creating opportunities for quality service providers. Focusing on customer acquisition and tailoring your approach to attract clients ensures a profitable business model. Types of Pet Sitting Services Offered Diverse services enhance your offerings in the pet sitting business. Consider these common services: In-home pet sitting: Care for pets within their home environment. Dog walking: Regular walks to keep pets active and happy. Pet boarding: Providing a safe place for pets when owners are away. Pet training: Basic obedience training enhances pet behavior and owner satisfaction. Each service targets specific needs, allowing you to develop a growth strategy that suits your expertise and market demand. Tailoring your services to meet local preferences can also differentiate your business. Essential Steps to Start Your Business Starting a pet sitting business involves laying a solid foundation. Follow these essential steps to ensure a successful launch. Conducting Market Research Conducting thorough market research helps you understand the competitive landscape. Analyze existing pet care services in your area to identify key players and their offerings. Use resources like local pet stores, online listings, and social media to gather information on pricing and services. Recognizing your target audience’s preferences allows you to tailor your services and differentiate your business. According to the American Pet Products Association, 67% of U.S. households own pets, highlighting a significant market potential. Creating a Business Plan Creating a detailed business plan defines your business model and growth strategy. Outline your services, target audience, and pricing structure. Include financial projections that account for startup costs, expected revenue, and profit margins. Identify funding options like loans or angel investors to secure initial capital. Execute effective marketing strategies, including social media and SEO, to attract customers. Establishing a comprehensive business plan also aids in gaining legal registrations, such as DBA (Doing Business As) or LLC. This structured approach enhances your chances for sustainability and scalability. Legal and Financial Considerations Starting a pet sitting business involves navigating legal and financial aspects crucial for success. You’ll make key decisions regarding your business structure, registration, and pricing to ensure compliance and profitability. Registering Your Business When you start a pet sitting business, registering your business is an essential step. Choose a legal structure like a Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation. A sole proprietorship offers simplicity but doesn’t separate personal and business assets, leading to personal liability. An LLC, however, provides that separation and liability protection, requiring you to maintain a business bank account and file annual financial statements. Starting as a corporation involves more complex regulations but offers distinct advantages in asset protection. Register with appropriate state and federal agencies to ensure compliance. Obtain any necessary licenses and permits related to animal care in your area. Seeking legal advice can guide you in choosing the best structure for your business model. Setting Your Pricing Structure Establishing your pricing structure is a critical component in your pet sitting business. Consider factors like market rates, the services you offer, and your target audience’s willingness to pay. Conduct market research to analyze competitor pricing and identify gaps in service offerings. Develop a reasonable price point that reflects your services’ value while considering your costs and desired profit margin. Create tiered service packages or discounts for repeat customers to enhance your sales funnel. A clear pricing structure helps in customer acquisition and builds trust, making your services more appealing. Don’t forget to account for taxes and other expenses in your pricing strategy to ensure sustainable cash flow. Building Your Client Base Building a solid client base forms the foundation of your pet sitting business. Focus on targeted strategies to attract and retain clients effectively. Marketing Strategies Implement effective marketing strategies to increase visibility. Utilize digital marketing techniques, such as SEO and social media, to reach a broad audience. Create a professional website showcasing your services, client testimonials, and pricing. Use email marketing to provide updates and build relationships with previous clients. Consistent branding across all platforms reinforces trust and credibility. Consider local advertising and partnerships with pet-related businesses to broaden your reach. Networking with Pet Owners Network with pet owners to expand your client base. Attend community events, dog parks, and pet expos to meet potential clients. Join local pet owner groups on social media platforms to engage with your target audience and promote your services. Collaborate with veterinarians and pet supply stores to offer referral programs. Building strong relationships within the community encourages word-of-mouth referrals, essential for customer acquisition in a competitive market. Professionalism and Best Practices Maintaining professionalism and adhering to best practices is vital for your pet sitting business. By prioritizing care and effective client communication, you can establish a reputable brand and foster strong relationships with clients. Providing Excellent Care Providing excellent care is the cornerstone of your pet sitting business. Ensure you understand and meet the specific needs of each pet, including dietary requirements, exercise routines, and medical histories. Use checklists to track daily care tasks and routines. Familiarity with pet first-aid and CPR strengthens your qualifications and enhances client trust. Regular training from industry organizations, such as Pet Sitters International (PSI), can keep your skills sharp and your standards high. Exceptional care leads to satisfied clients and encourages repeat business, an essential component of your customer acquisition strategy. Communication with Clients Effective communication with clients strengthens relationships and reinforces client trust in your services. Initiate contact promptly when clients inquire about your services. Set clear expectations regarding services offered, availability, and pricing structures, laying the groundwork for a transparent business model. Use digital communication tools, such as email and text messaging, to provide updates on their pets and address concerns as they arise. Regularly ask for feedback to help refine your services and tailor your offerings to meet client preferences. Active engagement through social media enhances client connection and promotes your brand while showcasing client testimonials and pet care successes. Conclusion Starting a pet sitting business can be a rewarding journey that combines your love for animals with entrepreneurial spirit. By focusing on quality care and effective marketing strategies, you can carve out a niche in this growing market. Remember to stay committed to professionalism and continuously enhance your skills. Building strong relationships with clients will not only help you retain them but also encourage referrals. With the right approach and dedication, you’ll create a thriving business that brings joy to both you and the pets you care for. Embrace the opportunity and watch your passion turn into a successful venture. Frequently Asked Questions What is a pet sitting business? A pet sitting business involves caring for pets while their owners are away, providing services like in-home visits, dog walking, pet boarding, and training. It caters to the growing number of pet owners seeking reliable care for their furry friends. How is demand for pet sitting services rising? With 67% of U.S. households owning pets, the demand for trustworthy pet care has surged, especially as more people lead busy lives and seek reliable sitters for their animals. What are the key steps to starting a pet sitting business? Essential steps include conducting market research to understand local demand, creating a detailed business plan, registering your business, and establishing a pricing structure that aligns with market rates. What services can I offer in my pet sitting business? You can offer various services such as in-home pet sitting, dog walking, pet boarding, and pet training, tailored to meet the specific needs of your local clientele. How can I attract and retain clients in my pet sitting business? Utilize digital marketing strategies like SEO and social media, create a professional website, network within the community, and maintain excellent communication to build trust and encourage word-of-mouth referrals. Why is professionalism important in a pet sitting business? Professionalism ensures high-quality service and builds client trust. Providing tailored care, maintaining clear communication, and staying updated on pet first-aid practices enhances your reputation and promotes repeat business. What legal considerations should I be aware of? Registering your business and choosing a legal structure, such as a Sole Proprietorship or LLC, is essential for compliance and liability protection. Additionally, ensure your pricing reflects market rates and covers costs effectively. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Guide on How to Start a Pet Sitting Business for Animal Lovers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Microsoft's new AI terms reveal how 'Frontier Firms' will transform work. Learn what they mean for marketers and if you'll soon be an 'agent boss.' The post 7 AI Terms Microsoft Wants You to Know In 2025 appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

The Department of Education announced Monday that the FSA will finally restart collections on defaulted student loans beginning May 5, 2025, following a five-year pause that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision affects approximately 5.3 million borrowers who were in default before the pause. For these borrowers, the government can soon begin collecting repayments from tax refunds, withholding Social Security benefits, and even garnishing wages (up to 15% of disposable income). How do you know if you're already in default on your loans, or if you're at risk of defaulting soon? Here's what you need to know about the upcoming changes, and how to prepare for them. What the end of the pause means for youThis change primarily impacts borrowers who were already in default before pandemic protections began. That amounts to around 5.3 million people, according to the Education Department. In this case, "in default" means a borrower failed to make a loan payment for at least 270 days (about nine months). To determine if you're affected, log into your account at studentaid.gov. (Note: This is not the same portal you may typically use to make student loan payments, e.g., through a servicer like Sallie Mae.) Your dashboard should show your total debt amount, the name of your loan servicer or servicers, your monthly payment amount, and, most importantly, a warning message if you're in default. What to do if you're in default on your student loansBorrowers in default have three main options. 1. Repay the loans in fullI know, I know. While this is technically an option, most borrowers in default aren't in a position to pay off their entire loan balance at once. Still, it is the quickest and most effective option to deal with your debt. 2. ConsolidationThis process combines and simplifies your existing federal student loans into a new Direct Consolidation Loan. Consolidation can lower your monthly payment, but increase the period of time you will have to repay your loan—resulting in more payments and more interest overall than if you didn’t consolidate. You can log in to studentaid.gov to access the online direct consolidation loan application. 3. Loan rehabilitationWith consolidation, the fact that you were once in default stays on your credit report. With rehabilitation, you can remove the default status from your credit history. To do this, you have to make a certain number—typically nine—consecutive on-time payments. The exact amount of each payment is usually based on your income. How to choose the right repayment plan for your student loansOnce out of default (or if you're at risk, but not yet in default), you'll need to select an appropriate repayment plan. The first step you can take here is to find out exactly how much you’re expected to pay. On studentaid.gov, select “My Aid” in the dropdown menu under your name. Your loan servicer(s) should appear in that section. Clicking on “Loan Breakdown” will show you a list of the loans you received, including loans you have paid off or consolidated into a new loan. Once you confirm your loan company, visit that servicer’s website and log in to your account to ensure all your contact information is up to date so you don’t miss any notifications from them as you take the next steps. (Do the same on studentaid.gov—make sure your contact information, including email and physical address, is current so you receive all important communications.) Remember that you can change your repayment plan as your circumstances change. For instance, if you're experiencing financial hardship, several options can help lower your payments: Income-driven repayment plans that cap payments based on your income Economic hardship deferments if you recently lost your job Other deferment or forbearance options for temporary repayment relief What you can do about your defaulted student loans right nowThe Department of Education should alert all borrowers in default before May 5, via email and social media posts. They also said they will send notices of wage garnishment "later this summer." Whatever your status, don't wait for collections to resume to take action. With not a lot of time between now this summer, it’s important to get your repayment plan in order as soon as you can. If you're in default, here are the immediate steps you can take: Confirm your status on StudentAid.gov and update your contact information so that you don't miss any communications. Contact your loan servicer to discuss repayment plans. Consider seeking advice from a financial counselor if you need additional guidance. Even if you're not in danger of default today, you could be soon. Student loans have a chokehold over millions of Americans, but you have a little bit of time to put yourself in the best position to tackle yours. By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid the more severe consequences down the line. View the full article

The European Commission is coming for “SkinnyTok.” EU regulators are investigating a recent wave of social media videos that promote extreme thinness and “tough-love” weight loss advice, assessing whether TikTok is doing enough to protect children online, per Politico. France’s minister for digital media, Clara Chappaz, recently reported #SkinnyTok to both the French media regulator Arcom and the EU. “These videos promote extreme thinness. Protecting minors online is one of my priorities,” the minister said in a TikTok video posted Friday. Arcom told Politico it is collaborating with the European Commission to examine the trend “given the public health risk” it may pose. A Commission spokesperson also confirmed to Politico that it is “aware of the issue” and “ready to cooperate.” This comes alongside an ongoing EU investigation into TikTok’s algorithm and its impact on minors. The Commission is already looking into how the platform promotes content related to eating disorders—suggesting that further action may soon follow. Although the investigation is still in its early stages, discussions with TikTok are underway. The platform’s community guidelines claim it does “not allow showing or promoting disordered eating and dangerous weight loss behaviors.” Still, content that “shows or promotes potentially harmful weight management” is permitted for users over 18 and is excluded from the For You feed. Fast Company has reached out to TikTok for comment. Search “SkinnyTok” on TikTok, and the first thing you’ll see is a platform-generated message stating, “You are more than your weight.” Tap it, and you’ll find links to resources for disordered eating support, including the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA). But once you move past that well-meaning message, you’re hit with thousands of videos promoting restrictive eating, body checks, and before-and-after transformations. “Unhinged skinny advice,” one post reads. Another declares: “Being skinny is an outfit.” And, of course, the old favorite: “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.” Weight loss and pro-anorexia communities have long thrived on social media—just ask anyone who used Tumblr in the 2010s. In recent years, this kind of content has surged on TikTok, coinciding with the rise of GLP-1 medications. Many credit these drugs with pushing back against body positivity and ushering in a resurgence of thinness as the ideal. The effects aren’t just digital. According to a recent report by Trilliant Health, eating disorder-related health visits among those under 17 have more than doubled in the past five years. From 2018 to mid-2022, these visits rose by 107.4%, with anorexia nervosa-related visits increasing 129.26%. In 2021, a report revealed that Instagram had failed to protect vulnerable users from pro-anorexia content. Let’s hope TikTok learns from those mistakes. View the full article

The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership opportunities, events and more. A company’s corporate brand name should be its hardest working marketing asset. Nothing will be used more often or for longer than the company’s name. And in a world where competitors can copy almost everything else, they can’t duplicate your name. However, sometimes the original name, chosen long ago, no longer fits and it’s time to rebrand. Rebranding a company is not just a superficial exercise; this strategic move can redefine your business, energize your team, and reshape your future. Steve Jobs, a master at communication, understood that a brand is more than a name or logo—it’s a story, a purpose, a promise, and the right name can make or break a brand. After all, the man turned a company named after a fruit into one of the most successful brands in the world. Here is some guidance on when to rebrand and the steps to make a rebrand successful, with inspiration from Steve Jobs.  When to rebrand So, when is it time to rebrand? Maybe your brand no longer reflects who you are or what you stand for. If your company has evolved—expanding into new markets, adopting new technologies, or shifting its mission—your brand must evolve too. Just as Jobs famously redefined Apple’s purpose to focus on innovation and simplicity, you must ensure your brand reflects where you’re headed, not where you’ve been. Perhaps your brand is facing increased competition. If customers can’t tell the difference between you and your competitors, it’s time to stand out. A rebrand can help clarify what makes your business unique and why it matters. And most common, you are merging or acquiring another company. Mergers and acquisitions often demand a new identity that reflects the combined strengths of the entities involved—an opportunity to tell a fresh story.  Once a decision has been made to rebrand, here are five steps for success. 1. Tell the story first We are all wired for story. When someone says, “I have a story to tell you,” we lean in. So the first step is to tell the story of the rebrand with emphasis on the benefits to the audiences. Why you are changing is a good start, but what does this mean for your customers? Craft a narrative that resonates emotionally and aligns with your audience’s needs. As Jobs said, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” Anchor your rebrand in a strong “why.” And an even stronger what! 2. Write your future headlines Imagine the article you want to see in The Wall Street Journal or The New York Times about your brand. What would they say about your rebrand? This exercise will clarify your vision and guide all creative efforts. While this sounds simple, the strategic exercise can be your compass as you prepare your creative and launch activities. Take a recent Lexicon name, Lucid Motors. The company’s mission statement expresses that “through technology, we create exceptional experiences to drive the world forward.” For this assignment, the client was looking for a name that would capture that notion while setting itself apart from any other auto brand. The name “Lucid” achieves this by working on our imagination, moving us from the literal meaning “clear-headed” to “exceptionally efficient brain power” to “exceptionally efficient battery power.” While this is going on in the intellectual realm, we experience the shock of the name’s unexpectedness in its category. Of course, shock by itself is not enough. As we see, the name also moves us from the literal meaning of lucid to one that fits the character of the car.  3. Focus on the unexpected and emotion. Humans like to think of themselves as rational animals, but it comes as no news to marketers that we are motivated to a greater extent by emotions. Logic brings us to conclusions; emotion brings us to action. Whether we are creating a poem or a new brand name, we won’t get very far if we treat the task as an engineering exercise. True, names are formed by putting together parts, just as poems are put together with rhythmic patterns and with rhyming lines, but that totally misses what is essential to a name’s success or a poem’s success. Consider Microsoft and Apple as names. One is far more mechanical, and the other much more effective at creating the beginning of an experience. While both companies are tremendously successful, there is no question that Apple has the stronger, more emotional experience. What is that worth? 4. Identify your audience and speak directly to each group Different stakeholders care about different things. Employees need inspiration; investors need confidence; customers need clarity on what’s in it for them. Break down these audiences and craft tailored messages for each group. Identifying the audience groups can be challenging. While the first layer is obvious—customers, employees, investors, and analysts—all these audiences are easy to find and message. However, what is often overlooked is the individuals in those audiences who can more positively influence the rebrand. It may be a particular journalist, or a few select employees. Once you have identified these influencers, develop more relevant conversations that help them understand the rebrand. 5. Plan for longevity A successful launch must be roadmapped with events and reminders over a 9-18 month timeline. It is much more than simply reannouncing the name change; it becomes an opportunity to build stronger relationships with the audiences that matter most to your brand. Consistency builds trust. Plan events and marketing efforts over a longer timeframe to reinforce your new identity. For example, company or industry conferences are excellent venues to reinforce the change and show where the company is headed. Any event must be viewed as an opportunity to strengthen the reasons for the rebrand. Steve Jobs approached branding with clarity, simplicity, and a relentless focus on storytelling and user experience. He didn’t just change Apple’s logo—he transformed its identity by aligning every touchpoint with its purpose: empowering individuals through technology. By following these principles, you can ensure that your rebrand isn’t just a name change but a strategic leap forward that captures attention, inspires loyalty, and drives growth. As Jobs might say, “Think different.” David Placek is founder and CEO of Lexicon Branding. View the full article

An AI agent is an artificial intelligence tool that can take actions autonomously within a software environment. While on the surface they might seem similar to other popular AI tools — like ChatGPT or Midjourney — there’s one specific difference between them. AI agents act without human input. As advanced as tools like ChatGPT might be, they can’t act without a person making a request or programming some kind of action. An AI agent can perform complex tasks without any human intervention. AI agents are rapidly becoming a vital technology for automating repetitive tasks, streamlining analysis, and more. In this guide, you’ll find definitions of the five types of AI agents and common examples of workflows that use AI agents. The 5 types of AI agents Despite the wide variety of AI agents across tools, they usually fall within the five following categories. Simple reflex agents This is the simplest type of AI agent. It operates using a simple, “if this, then that” structure, allowing it to perform a range of simple automations. Notably, these AI agents don’t use historical data or future predictions to take action. They only process information that is immediately available to them. An AI agent that automatically sets up a meeting for a sales agent when a lead comes in is an example of a simple reflex agent. Model-based reflex agents A model-based reflex agent can take similar actions to a simple reflex agent with one key difference: an internal state based on a breadth of information. Before these agents take action, they can review historical data and make predictions based on existing trends. This allows them to take on more complex tasks and make better decisions. Goal-based agents Where simple reflex agents take action based on the stimulus they receive as they receive it, goal-based agents work backwards from an established goal. These agents choose from possible actions according to what is most likely to lead to a pre-determined goal. The best example of goal-based AI agents is a self-driving car. The car has a specific destination for its goal, and it makes decisions along the way to get there as efficiently and safely as possible. Utility-based agents Utility-based agents take automatic action to maximize a specific value. A user will turn a desired income into a quantifiable value that the AI agent can optimize for. When faced with a decision, the agent will pick the option that leads to the greatest increase in that value. An AI agent that automatically trades stocks to maximize profit is an example of a utility-based agent. Learning agents A learning agent is an AI agent that improves its own models over time. By taking in information from its environment, including the consequences of previous decisions, this agent essentially “learns” its way towards becoming more effective. An AI agent that uses someone’s viewing history to make better content recommendations over time is an example of a learning agent. 10 examples of AI agents There are hundreds of possible uses for AI agents. Here are just a few examples to inspire you. Content algorithms Platforms like YouTube and Netflix use AI agents to automatically recommend content to users that aligns with their interests. This is done by identifying trends in a user’s viewing history and making predictions about which videos they’re most likely to engage with. These algorithms are almost completely independent. Dynamic pricing systems Adjusting prices in real-time, based on factors like location and supply, can have a massive impact on profit margins. An AI agent can be used to maximize profit by tailoring prices to real-world circumstances on the fly, adapting to purchase trends. Financial trading agents Financial markets process a massive amount of information. Feeding an AI agent with all that data doesn’t just allow it to make better predictions for individual financial assets, it also gives them the background they need to make trades and financial decisions. Project management app automation Many project management platforms have automations that save their users precious time. An AI agent allows these apps to have more complex automations, potentially taking a long series of actions autonomously. Self-driving cars A self-driving car is the perfect example of a goal-based agent. With a destination pre-selected, the car automatically makes turns, regulates its speed, and stops at lights as needed to reach that destination. These cars use AI agents to make these decisions without any human input. Fraud detection agents Fraud detection relies on spotting variances in financial transactions. These can be transactions that are far larger than usual amounts, that come from atypical sources, or are sent to strange destinations. AI agents can analyze massive amounts of financial data to identify trends and spot variance that signals potential fraud. Customer support bot Many organizations already use AI chatbots to automatically answer common customer requests and even automate basic actions. Using AI agents in these roles allows organizations to automate even complex customer support tasks, like opening a ticket and populating the right fields in a customer support tool from a single customer request. Sales agent bots AI agents can answer repetitive questions from prospects, qualify them for future pipeline stages, automatically update contact information in your CRM, and more. These agents can streamline lead generation and qualification processes, meaning your salespeople dedicate their time to top-quality prospects. Training agent Whether you’re training salespeople, customer success agents, or marketers, an AI agent can create scenarios, provide feedback, and guide trainees through complex problems. Digital marketing assistant An AI agent can act like an extra marketer, analyzing past campaigns, planning new initiatives, and even making tactical decisions like adjusting budgets for paid ad campaigns. How integrations make AI agents better While AI agents are incredibly powerful tools, they often have a serious limitation. They only operate within a limited number of systems. Salesforce Agentforce, for example, only acts within your Salesforce environment. While that allows it to automate a ton of actions within Salesforce, it means your agents are limited when dealing with complex workflows that cross tools. Unless you use the right integrations. Unito integrations let users create a two-way sync for over 60 tools, from Salesforce to Smartsheet and Jira. When paired with AI agents, these integrations allow you to automate even the most complex workflows, leaving your employees with more time to handle mission-critical tasks. Want to see what Unito can do? Meet with our team to see what Unito integrations can do for your AI-powered workflows. Talk with sales FAQ: AI Agents examples What is an AI agent? An AI agent is a type of AI tool that can perform actions without human input. A person will usually be involved in setting up the agent, determining its objectives, and even setting the limitations of its actions, but the agent will act autonomously. AI agents typically act within a single software environment, the right software integrations can allow them to operate across more tools. What are the 5 types of AI agents? The five types of AI agents are: Simple reflex agents, which take immediate actions based on the stimulus they receive and no other data. Model-based reflex agents, which evaluate historical data and predictions of future trends to make better decisions. Goal-based agents, which work backwards from an established goal and take the best decisions to reach it. Utility-based agents, which work towards maximizing a quantifiable value used to represent a desired objective. Learning agents, which can dynamically improve their decision-making over time by learning from their own actions and their environment. Is ChatGPT an AI agent? No, ChatGPT isn’t an AI agent. It’s a large language model that answers prompts from humans in a chat interface. It can’t take actions autonomously on other platforms. Is Siri an AI agent? No, Siri isn’t an AI agent. It’s an AI assistant, which performs tasks in a similar way as an AI agent, but it isn’t autonomous. A user has to ask an AI assistant to perform a task, and that assistant serves as the go-between for them and the apps where those tasks happen. An AI agent, after it’s set up, acts on its own without any user input. View the full article

Find out how data clean rooms can empower marketers to thrive in a digital landscape marked by user privacy awareness. The post Data Clean Room: What It Is & Why It Matters In A Cookieless World appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

While no one is entirely immune to the threat of malware, you can certainly minimize your risk by following good digital hygiene practices when browsing the internet, downloading apps, and engaging with emails or messages with links or attachments. That said, if you notice your PC is running slowly, programs or apps are crashing repeatedly or unexpectedly, or you see software or processes you don't recognize, you may have a malware infection. To identify malware and remove it from your PC, follow these steps. Disconnect your device from the internetFirst things first: cut off any internet connection to your computer. This prevents malware from spreading through your network to other devices or receiving updates from its source that may cause more damage or make it more difficult to contain or delete. If you end up needing to download software—such as a malware removal tool—disconnect as soon as you're done. Reboot in Safe ModeRestarting your PC in Safe Mode minimizes the number of drivers and services running so you can isolate malware and reduce the risk of damage. Safe Mode is the bare minimum, while Safe Mode with Networking will allow you to access the internet if needed (to download and install malware removal software). To restart your machine in Safe Mode (on Windows 10 or 11), follow these steps: Hit Windows + I to open your settings. Click Update & Security > Recovery or System > Recovery. Under Advanced Startup, select Restart Now. On the Choose an Option screen, which appears after restart, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. After the second restart, select 4/F4 to go into Safe Mode or 5/F5 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. Once you enter Safe Mode, avoid logging into any apps or services, as some types of malware include key loggers or other ways of stealing your credentials from your screen or clipboard. Monitor your PC's activityThere are a few ways to see activity and processes on your PC to identify anything suspicious. First, review the apps and files that have run recently under Settings > Privacy & security > Activity history. Event Viewer shows detailed logs of security and system activity and can be launched by searching Event Viewer in your Windows search bar. Expand Windows Logs on the left sidebar and select the category to view events. Finally, Task Manager shows you everything that's currently running and what resources are being used. Open it with the shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Esc or from the Start menu. Look for processes that are resource-heavy or that have suspicious names. You can select and end tasks from the Processes tab. Remove temporary filesMalware may install temporary files on your PC that allow it to hide or spread—you can find and delete these under Settings > System > Storage > Temporary Files. Click Remove Files to clear out some or all of the files. Windows also has a built-in tool called Storage Sense that will automatically clean up temporary files on a set schedule, which you should enable if you haven't already, or you can run it on demand. Under Settings > System > Storage, toggle Storage Sense on, and click Clean now to use it immediately. Reset your browserYou can also reset your web browser to its default settings to address any modifications resulting from a malware infection. On Chrome, tap the three dots in the upper-right corner of your browser window to open Settings. Tap Reset Settings in the left toolbar and select Restore settings to their original default. Confirm with the Reset settings button. On Edge, the process is similar: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values > Reset. On Firefox, go to Menu > Help > More Troubleshooting Information and click Refresh Firefox > Refresh Firefox > Finish. You should also clear your browser's cache, cookies, and history (and maybe check out our guide to the best internet browsers for privacy). Run a malware scanMalware scanners can identify, quarantine, and remove threats from your PC. Windows has built-in antivirus software with Microsoft Defender—via the Windows Security app—but if you suspect an infection, it may be a good idea to run a second-opinion scanner or other third-party program to detect anything that was missed. Lifehacker sister site PCMag has a list of their favorite malware scanners. Avast was their favorite free option, while Malwarebytes (also free) was their choice for fighting persistent malware. Again, you can download software if you rebooted in Safe Mode with Networking. Restart (or reset) your PC Once you feel confident you've isolated and removed any threats, you can restart your PC. If the malware removal process is unsuccessful, you may need to start from scratch by reinstalling Windows and all apps (i.e., resetting your PC). If you restore from a backup, make sure it was created before the malware infection. View the full article

Intuit announced Wednesday that it has signed an agreement to acquire GoCo, a provider of modern human resources and benefits solutions for small and mid-market businesses. The acquisition is aimed at transforming Intuit’s payroll offerings into a more comprehensive Human Capital Management (HCM) solution. Intuit, the company behind TurboTax, Credit Karma, QuickBooks, and Mailchimp, says the integration of GoCo’s capabilities will enable businesses to manage their finances and the entire employee lifecycle in one place. Initially, GoCo’s features will be integrated into the Intuit Enterprise Suite and QuickBooks Payroll for Premium and Elite Payroll customers in the U.S. “As businesses scale, they need to be able to find, onboard, and retain the right talent, offer and manage benefits, and stay compliant, while maintaining a single source of truth for all employee information,” said Olivier Bartholot, Vice President and Segment Leader of Workforce Solutions at Intuit. “GoCo brings world-class HR and benefits capabilities to our existing product portfolio. Together, we will deliver a comprehensive HCM solution to help small and mid-market businesses manage their teams, optimize productivity, and grow faster.” GoCo, founded in 2015, provides services including hiring and onboarding, workforce and talent management, and benefits administration. The company’s AI tools are designed to complement Intuit’s existing data resources and AI-driven capabilities. According to the announcement, GoCo’s tools will support personalized insights and automation through integration with Intuit’s AI-powered platforms. Intuit Enterprise Suite, which launched in 2024, is described as a configurable suite of integrated financial tools designed to support the scalability and productivity of growing mid-market businesses. QuickBooks Payroll, which currently processes payments for 18 million workers annually in the U.S., will also incorporate GoCo’s functionalities. “For more than a decade, GoCo has been driven by its mission to help mid-market businesses spend less time on HR tasks so they can focus on growing happier, more productive teams,” said Nir Leibovich, Co-Founder & CEO of GoCo. “We’re excited to join Intuit to support its vision to become the only team-management platform a business needs to grow and manage its team.” The acquisition supports Intuit’s strategy to expand its service offerings for mid-market businesses and create a unified platform that combines financial and workforce management capabilities. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. This article, "Intuit to Acquire HR Platform GoCo to Expand HCM Offerings" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Intuit announced Wednesday that it has signed an agreement to acquire GoCo, a provider of modern human resources and benefits solutions for small and mid-market businesses. The acquisition is aimed at transforming Intuit’s payroll offerings into a more comprehensive Human Capital Management (HCM) solution. Intuit, the company behind TurboTax, Credit Karma, QuickBooks, and Mailchimp, says the integration of GoCo’s capabilities will enable businesses to manage their finances and the entire employee lifecycle in one place. Initially, GoCo’s features will be integrated into the Intuit Enterprise Suite and QuickBooks Payroll for Premium and Elite Payroll customers in the U.S. “As businesses scale, they need to be able to find, onboard, and retain the right talent, offer and manage benefits, and stay compliant, while maintaining a single source of truth for all employee information,” said Olivier Bartholot, Vice President and Segment Leader of Workforce Solutions at Intuit. “GoCo brings world-class HR and benefits capabilities to our existing product portfolio. Together, we will deliver a comprehensive HCM solution to help small and mid-market businesses manage their teams, optimize productivity, and grow faster.” GoCo, founded in 2015, provides services including hiring and onboarding, workforce and talent management, and benefits administration. The company’s AI tools are designed to complement Intuit’s existing data resources and AI-driven capabilities. According to the announcement, GoCo’s tools will support personalized insights and automation through integration with Intuit’s AI-powered platforms. Intuit Enterprise Suite, which launched in 2024, is described as a configurable suite of integrated financial tools designed to support the scalability and productivity of growing mid-market businesses. QuickBooks Payroll, which currently processes payments for 18 million workers annually in the U.S., will also incorporate GoCo’s functionalities. “For more than a decade, GoCo has been driven by its mission to help mid-market businesses spend less time on HR tasks so they can focus on growing happier, more productive teams,” said Nir Leibovich, Co-Founder & CEO of GoCo. “We’re excited to join Intuit to support its vision to become the only team-management platform a business needs to grow and manage its team.” The acquisition supports Intuit’s strategy to expand its service offerings for mid-market businesses and create a unified platform that combines financial and workforce management capabilities. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. This article, "Intuit to Acquire HR Platform GoCo to Expand HCM Offerings" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Wix has launched an AI-powered adaptive content application that enables website owners to personalize site experiences in real-time based on visitor characteristics and user-defined instructions. The application dynamically generates content tailored to individual site visitors, aiming to enhance engagement and improve user experience. The adaptive content tool uses session details such as a visitor’s device, country, language, or return status to determine how content is presented. Users can input specific instructions to shape the generated messaging, including directing the AI to create sales-oriented or engaging content. This level of customization allows for tailored narratives that adjust to the preferences and context of each visitor. “Website personalization is now essential for delivering the relevant, engaging experiences today’s consumers expect,” said Muly Gelman, Senior Product Manager at Wix Personalize. “This application highlights how we can move beyond using AI to generate website content but leverage AI to dynamically adapt and personalize the live website experience for each visitor in real-time, empowering businesses to connect more effectively with their customers. As a result, businesses can deliver engaging, personalized experiences that resonate with their audience, ultimately driving higher engagement rates and creating greater monetization opportunities.” Custom Logic and Real-Time Simulation The new application is accessible through the Wix Editor and Wix Studio, as well as via the App Market or Dashboard by searching for “adaptive.” Once installed, users can set adaptive logic by choosing from a range of pre-defined function templates. By selecting “Set Conditions,” users open a prompt that allows them to define the rules and parameters that guide how content will adapt based on the defined visitor attributes. The application also includes a simulation feature, allowing users to preview how different text variations will appear to visitors with differing characteristics. This helps users fine-tune their adaptive messaging before publishing it live. Integration with Wix Functions and Automations Wix’s adaptive content application works alongside recently launched tools such as Wix Functions and Wix Automations. These offerings are designed to automate content generation, manage ongoing tasks, and provide real-time website customization. According to Wix, this comprehensive suite eliminates the manual setup typically required by traditional personalization tools, enabling businesses to optimize operations while maintaining site performance. The adaptive content tool is currently available in English and is being gradually rolled out in additional languages. Wix and Wix Studio users globally can now implement real-time personalization to better connect with their site visitors. Image: Wix This article, "Wix Launches AI-Powered Adaptive Content Application to Personalize Website Experiences" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article