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Read insights from marketing agencies, explore strategies for success in 2025, and provide actionable takeaways to help your agency thrive. The post Up-To-Date Trends, AI-Driven Workflows, and Smarter Data Strategies for Q2 appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

The average purchase loan size hit a four-month high of $447,500 as fewer home shoppers are applying for government-backed mortgage products. View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: I work for a small-ish (100 people) British nonprofit. The work we do is similar to helping disabled people find homes and jobs, coaching them in social and life skills. We have developed a network of connections with local businesses who help us make this all happen. All good so far. I love my job, my coworkers and my boss. The work we do is valuable and I’m proud of it. We have plans for growth in our city so we can help more people. Again all good. But … the CEO recently brought in a consultant to work on the growth project. Next thing we know, that network of local connections is being expanded beyond businesses. All of us staff members are being asked to systematically share our own personal contacts. A series of meetings is planned over the next few weeks where small groups of us will each talk about where in the city we live and map out our connections. (It sounds like there will be some kind of actual map involved.) For me, this would look like giving details of my book group and the cafe where we meet, my local church and related discussion group, my yoga classes, art group, and so on. Then once all that information has been collected, we’re expected to go along to each location with a coworker and encourage our own private social contacts to get involved in the work we do, which might mean asking for money or seeking people with the skills we need to volunteer or work for us. This sounds a lot like the equivalent of a MLM scheme. Also, my friends are my friends, and I don’t want to mix those boundaries with my paid employment. But I’m much more introverted than most of my coworkers, and I’m hearing a lot of enthusiasm for this scheme from those who are more social. The level of fervor from the CEO and consultant in particular is beginning to sound almost cult-ish. Although my work is well thought of, I’m concerned that refusing this madness will affect my prospects. My boss is away for a couple of weeks. I think he’ll be sympathetic but he’s two levels below the CEO (who is pretty autocratic). Any ideas on how to handle this? Maybe I just need to pretend I have no friends. Yeah, one option is that it turns out that you’re a hermit! You don’t know many people locally — maybe most of your friends and family are long-distance — and perhaps that one group people know you’re involved with has an explicit rule against any sort of business solicitation among members. That said, I’d be inclined instead to just decide that of course this request is not “open up your entire life to us to exploit,” but instead is “let us know of any parts of your network that you think would be amenable to this and which you would be comfortable approaching.” Take it as a given that that’s what’s being asked of you and proceed accordingly. That might mean your answer is, “There’s really no one in my local network who fits this, but I’ll keep thinking about it.” Feel free to add, “The groups I’m in have rules against any kind of solicitations.” By the way, the idea that you’re supposed to physically show up in these places with a coworker is really odd. It would be one thing to say to you, “Hey, if you think people would be interested, could you mention us at your next art class?” But you’re supposed to show up at all these physical locations with a colleague who no one knows and just flagrantly go into business pitch mode? That’s super weird — so you also might be able to say, “They would react really poorly to that approach and we would definitely not succeed that way, so instead I will feel out their interest one-on-one.” (And then maybe “feel out their interest one-on-one” ends up meaning “in my head, after which I’ll conclude they’re not going to be interested.”) However, the best option of all is to push back more honestly if you feel you safely can. It’s not unusual in nonprofit work for staff to be asked who in their networks might be interested in supporting the organization’s work, but pressuring people to feel like they have to turn over their personal contacts is not okay. That said, it’s also possible this won’t turn out to be as high-pressure as you currently fear. Maybe when you sit down to do it, it will end up being more in the vein of “anyone who you’d be comfortable approaching, if anyone.” Which is another reason to go into it assuming that of course we’re all being reasonable about this … while simultaneously being prepared with a plan in case they’re not. View the full article

The Trump administration said Tuesday that it is pulling almost all U.S. Agency for International Development workers off the job and out of the field worldwide, moving to all but end a six-decade mission to shore up American security by fighting starvation, funding education, and working to end epidemics. The administration notified USAID workers in emails and a notice posted online, the latest in a sudden dismantling of the aid agency by returning political appointees from President Donald Trump’s first term and billionaire Elon Musk’s government-efficiency teams who call much of the spending on programs overseas wasteful. The order takes effect just before midnight Friday and gives direct hires of the agency overseas—many of whom have been frantically packing up households in expectation of the announcement—30 days to return home unless they are deemed essential. Contractors not determined to be essential also would be fired, the notice said. The move had been rumored for several days and was the most extreme of several proposals considered for consolidating the agency into the State Department. Other options had included closures of smaller USAID missions and partial closures of larger ones. Thousands of USAID employees already had been laid off and programs worldwide shut down after Trump, a Republican, imposed a sweeping freeze on foreign assistance. Despite outcry from Democratic lawmakers, the aid agency has been a special target as the new administration and Musk’s budget-slashing Department of Government Efficiency look to shrink the federal government. They have ordered a spending stop that has paralyzed U.S.-funded aid and development work around the world, gutted the senior leadership and workforce with furloughs and firings, and closed Washington headquarters to staffers Monday. Lawmakers said the agency’s computer servers were carted away. “Spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper,” Musk boasted on X. The mass removal of thousands of staffers overseas and in Washington would doom billions of dollars in projects in some 120 countries, including security assistance to partners such as Ukraine as well as development work for clean water, job training and education, including for schoolgirls under Taliban rule in Afghanistan. The U.S. is the world’s largest humanitarian donor by far. It spends less than 1% of its budget on foreign assistance, a smaller share of its budget than some countries. Health programs like those credited with helping end polio and smallpox epidemics and an acclaimed HIV/AIDS program that saved more than 20 million lives in Africa already have stopped. So have monitoring and deployments of rapid-response teams for contagious diseases such as an Ebola outbreak in Uganda. Hundreds of millions of dollars of food and medication already delivered by U.S. companies are sitting in ports because of the administration’s sudden shutdown of the agency. Democratic lawmakers and others say the USAID is enshrined in legislation as an independent agency, and cannot be shut down without congressional approval. Supporters of USAID from both political parties say its work overseas is essential to countering the influence of Russia, China, and other adversaries and rivals abroad, and to cementing alliances and partnerships. The decision to withdraw direct-hire staff and their families earlier than their planned departures will likely cost the government tens of millions of dollars in travel and relocation costs. Staff being placed on leave include both foreign and civil service officers who have legal protection against arbitrary dismissal and being placed on leave without reason. The American Foreign Service Association, the union which represents U.S. diplomats, sent a notice to its members denouncing the decision and saying it was preparing legal action to counter or halt it. Locally employed USAID staff, however, do not have much recourse and were excluded from the federal government’s voluntary buyout offer. USAID staffers and families faced wrenching decisions as the rumored order loomed, including whether to pull children out of school midyear. Some gave away pet cats and dogs, fearing the Trump administration would not give them time to complete the paperwork to bring the animals with them. Tuesday’s notice said it would consider case-by-case exceptions for those needing more time. But with most of the agency’s staff soon off the job, it was unclear who would process such claims or other paperwork needed for the mass removal of thousands of overseas staffers. Musk’s teams had taken USAID’s website offline over the weekend and it came back online Tuesday night, with the notice of recall or termination for global staffers its sole post. The announcement came as Secretary of State Marco Rubio was on a five-nation tour of Central America and met with embassy and USAID staff at two of the region’s largest USAID missions: El Salvador and Guatemala on Monday and Tuesday. Journalists accompanying Rubio were not allowed to witness the so-called “meet and greet” sessions in those two countries, but had been allowed in for a similar event in Panama on Sunday in which Rubio praised employees, particularly locals, for their dedication and service. At a news conference earlier Tuesday, Rubio said he has “long supported foreign aid. I continue to support foreign aid. But foreign aid is not charity.” He noted that every dollar the U.S. spends must advance its national interests. The online notice says those who will be exempted from leave include staffers responsible for “mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs” and would be informed by Thursday afternoon. “Thank you for your service,” the notice concluded. Lee reported from Guatemala City. —Elen Knickmeyer and Matthew Lee, Associated Press View the full article

The program Better Forever rewards returning mortgage customers by discounting the fee charged on their future refinance or purchase loans. View the full article

Over the first 16 days of the Trump administration, Elon Musk and a small team at the “Department of Government Efficiency” has systematically started to dismantle the agencies that keep the country running. DOGE workers have taken multiple actions that experts say are illegal, from accessing private taxpayer data to pushing workers out of their jobs. Musk (and Trump’s) power grab has arguably created a constitutional crisis—and seems likely to only get worse. “This is totally outside the bounds of the way the federal government should operate, and is required by law to operate,” says says John Davisson, director of litigation and senior counsel at the nonprofit Electronic Privacy Information Center. So far, no one has stopped Musk. But it’s possible that lawsuits that are now underway could succeed. Musk is behind a push to try to get 2 million federal workers to quit their jobs—including air traffic controllers, in an email that went out the day after a plane crash in D.C. killed 67 people. (This happened despite the fact that 90% of airports currently have a shortage of workers.) Only after a second plane crashed in Philadelphia, a day later, were air traffic controllers exempted from the general effort to try to get federal employees to take buyouts. An email sent by DOGE officials claimed that workers who took buyouts would get paid through September if they agreed to quit this month. As of Tuesday, at least 20,000 workers had agreed to leave—but the government doesn’t have the funding to pay them, and DOGE doesn’t legally have the authority to make the buyout offer in the first place. Meanwhile, some roles that cover vital day-to-day work will go unfilled. Some agencies, like the Justice Department and FBI, have seen firings that are also likely illegal. Musk’s team also reportedly accessed classified information at USAID, the international aid agency, without the proper clearance; the security officers who tried to stop them were put on leave. Musk later said that he “spent the weekend putting USAID into the wood chipper,” and that the humanitarian agency, which has saved millions of lives, was a “criminal organization” and it was “time for it to die.” On Friday, USAID announced that its 10,000 employees will be put on administrative leave. DOGE also reportedly accessed private Treasury payment systems that contain Americans’ personal data, including tax information and social security numbers, despite potential conflicts of interest with his own businesses and the risk that the data could fall into the wrong hands. Another career official was placed on leave for trying to prevent Musk’s team—including some college-age programmers with no government experience—from seeing the data. “That band of personnel is barreling in to agencies across the government, upending security and privacy and confidentiality protections and established procedures, to gain access to databases that in many cases contain vast amounts of sensitive personal information from the general public and from federal employees,” says Davisson. “And they are doing this to remake the federal government in their preferred manner, regardless of what Congress has ordained.” U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren speaks to a crowd gathered in front of the U.S. Treasury Department in protest of Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency on February 4, 2025. [Photo: Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images] ‘The approach seems to be to move fast and break things, including the law’ Much of DOGE’s work is illegal, experts say. “Basically, the approach seems to be to move fast and break things, including the law,” says Laura Dickinson, a law professor at the George Washington University Law School who focuses on national security and human rights. “A lot of what his team is doing appears to be illegal, and they’re putting the burden of challenging this on people that are harmed.” DOGE is potentially breaking multiple laws. Its access to taxpayer information, for example, “is very likely illegal under the Privacy Act and under aspects of the Internal Revenue Code, which guarantee confidentiality of information,” Dickinson says. “There’s also a case to be made that it could violate the Federal Information Security Modernization Act, which has some cybersecurity protection. The issue here is just that that personal data is very closely regulated—who can have access to it, for privacy reasons, but also for security reasons. It’s really quite dangerous to kind of change the process for handling that data. There could be greater exposure to hackers and others.” In the case of USAID, because it was established by Congress, Musk and Trump don’t get to choose whether or not it survives. “There’s no current authority for this president, or any president, to abolish USAID,” says David Super, a law professor at Georgetown University with expertise in administrative and constitutional law. “So he’s flatly disregarding a binding statute of Congress.” The administration has folded USAID into the State Department, something that it also doesn’t have the authority to do. Now Musk’s team is also targeting the Department of Education, which Trump reportedly wants to shut down via executive order. The DOGE team also showed up at the headquarters of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Tuesday, reportedly accessing computer systems with more confidential information. Project 2025 called for the agency to be “broken up and downsized.” Like USAID, the president doesn’t have the legal authority to close either department. DOGE also doesn’t have the authority to tell employees to quit. Federal law does allow for buyouts, but only if an agency decides that it wants to staff to leave early and submits a plan to the Office of Personnel Management and gets the plan approved. DOGE has “created something entirely different, without any legal authority, in which they are effectively promising federal employees that they will be paid for doing no work between now and the end of September,” Super says. “Making such a promise is illegal, and they also have no authority to keep the promise even if they wanted to.” (Unions representing federal workers have warned that the buyout offers are scams, and that workers are unlikely to actually get paid.) Lawsuits are underway Because the work is illegal, lawsuits are part of the answer. Federal employee unions sued the Trump administration on Tuesday for allowing DOGE access to sensitive data. The largest union also sued over the buyout offers, saying that the policy is “pretext for removing and replacing government workers on an ideological basis.” Public Citizen, an advocacy group, is suing over DOGE’s violation of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, a law that requires public meetings and more transparency over what the government does. More lawsuits will come. USAID workers could sue, and so could recipients of funding from USAID, including contractors who work for the agency. Anyone who’s affected, including citizens, could potentially sue. “For example, if there is someone who is signed up to get extension courses from the Agriculture Department and those courses are cut off because of the illegal change in the job responsibilities of the people who were supposed to teach that course, people could absolutely sue,” says Super. It’s possible that some court cases could move quickly, in the same way that a court almost immediately blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to freeze all federal funding. “That doesn’t mean that there won’t be serious harm,” Super says. “We’ve heard of AIDS treatment programs overseas and other things that desperately need continuity that have been shut down. All the people whose lives have been upended—people who are wondering how they’re going to make their mortgage, having taken jobs with the federal government often for less than the private sector would offer, expecting the job security that federal law provides them—now seeing their lives upset.” Still, he says “lawsuits can stop these things quite quickly.” Though this also requires the Trump administration obeying the rulings of the court. Congress also needs to act, says Maria McFarland Sanchez-Moreno, CEO of RepresentUS, a nonprofit that fights corruption. “It’s urgent that Congress do its job,” she says. “They are responsible for exercising oversight over the executive branch.” Although several Congresspeople have spoken up—Senator Brian Schatz, for example, vowed to put a blanket hold on nominees for the State Department to protest what’s happening to USAID—the majority still haven’t. “Nobody should be silent in the face of this,” Sanchez-Moreno says. “And frankly, this should not be a partisan issue. This is about very traditional, historically conservative values of rule of law and preventing corruption and abuse of authority and respecting the constitution.” In her past work in international human rights, she says she saw firsthand how important it was to act. “These sorts of issues are easier to address earlier than later—I say that having worked on autocracy and corruption in many parts of the world,” she says. “Once you have attacks on the rule of law, if it’s not protected in a pretty strong way, it can be harder to recover it.” Everything DOGE has done follows the playbook that Musk has taken at his own companies, where he’s skirted labor laws and ignored safety regulations. In some cases, he’s gotten away with it. The stakes are obviously higher now. “This is a fast-rolling catastrophe,” says Davisson. “It is happening right now and demands an immediate response. I think all of our business in Congress should be put to the side and stalled wherever possible until this gross criminality and illegality is corrected and the DOGE is forced out of these systems.” View the full article

Gmail has had an Undo Send feature for years now, and it looks like Outlook for Mac is about to get a version of it too. While Outlook Recall technically isn't new, Microsoft is streamlining bringing it to Outlook's Mac app. Recall allows you to unsend an email in Outlook and works on both the service's free and paid tiers, and you can try out a beta version right now. What is Outlook Recall?I've often sent emails without thinking too much, and only after sending did I realize that I could have chosen a different example to illustrate a problem, my tone could be perceived as a bit rude, or that my email has an embarrassing typo. I've even misspelled my own name in an email once (I still pray that the receiver didn't notice it). In all these cases, I wished that Microsoft allowed me to quickly unsend the email, and eventually, I trained myself to take a deep breath and review emails before hitting the dreaded Send button. Now, with Outlook Recall, Microsoft has a way to help you unsend emails. It works with Outlook's Windows and web apps, and now the Mac app, too. This feature is not to be confused with Microsoft's AI Recall, which quietly records everything you do on your PC. The Outlook Recall feature is only for bringing back sent emails. How to use Outlook Recall Credit: Microsoft To use Outlook Recall for Mac, you'll need to be on the Microsoft 365 Insider program. To join it, visit this page and follow the instructions for the type of Office account that you have. Note that you using updates intended for the Insider program might mean troubleshooting and dealing with occasional bugs and crashes, as they're not fully ready yet. The program is meant for testing features before they're released to the general public, so you could face weird issues in your Microsoft 365 apps. Once you've joined the Insider program, you may have to update the Outlook for Mac app to version 16.94 or newer to start using the Recall feature. Check under File > Office Account > Update Options to be sure. Outlook Recall only works if you and the receiver are subscribed to Microsoft 365 or Exchange within the same organization. If you've emailed something to someone outside the organization, you're out of luck. Once you've sent an email to another person in the same organization, follow these steps to use Outlook Recall: Go to the Sent Items folder in Outlook for Mac. Right-click the email you wish to unsend. Click Recall. This button is also available in the toolbar above your emails. Go back to your Inbox and you'll see a small popover notification telling you that the message was successfully recalled. Right-click the sent message and select Resend to send it again. Microsoft said it plans to roll out this feature to the (confusingly separate from Beta) Preview channel this month (February 2025). If all goes well, it should make it to stable version of Outlook for Mac soon. View the full article

Are you considering starting a property management service? It’s essential to recognize that the responsibilities of a property manager and real estate agents overlap in several areas. Both positions operate within the realm of the real estate industry and have some common requirements. A broker possesses the qualifications to operate as a property manager. What follows is an outline of property management activities and guidance on launching a business that caters to rental properties or investment properties. The future looks good. The property management market is projected to reach a value of 21.4 Billion USD. So, if you are considering how to make money in real estate, property management is one reliable way to achieve that. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning how to start a property management company, now is an excellent time to explore this opportunity. Important Steps to Starting a Property Management Company The process of starting a property management company is not a spontaneous one; it necessitates following a series of well-thought-out steps. Let’s delve into what these steps entail. Research Other Property Management Companies Before you can start your own property management company, you need to know what you’re up against. That means market research into the property management industry. Potential property managers need to know who their direct and indirect competitors are. Look at: Who their customers are. These are your potential clients. What products do they offer? Do they sell properties, too? Their pricing. What’s a month’s rent worth? Remember, direct competitors are other property managers. Indirect competition can include in-house managers. And those who sell real estate. Choose a Name and Brand Your Property Management Company One of the first steps in setting up your property management company is to choose a name and build a brand around it. An impactful, well-thought-out name can leave a lasting impression and help in establishing your identity in the market. Here are a few tips for aspiring property managers looking to brand their new business venture. Remember, successful property management companies start their journey with a strong brand. Make sure the name is unique. There are legal issues about duplication in most states. Try a Google search to see what’s taken. Choose the URL carefully. It needs to be memorable. Don’t just focus on the SEO value. You’ll get traffic from one person, remember. It shouldn’t be hard to spell or understand. Write a Property Management Business Plan Any successful property manager understands the value of a robust business plan in guiding their enterprise. Such a plan assists in multiple areas, including setting achievable goals, choosing an appropriate business model, and keeping the focus sharp. In the following sections, we will cover a few crucial points that need to be addressed in a well-structured business plan. Business Model and Services. Add the general structure of your business here. Plus a few words on who you are and what you do. Goals. Property managers need to have long and short-term objectives. Landlord resources written down can help you put these together. Structure. Most SMBs have specific positions. Outline them. These are key areas that a new property manager should address. Here’s a general business plan template site. Form a Legal Entity and Register To operate legally, you’ll need to select a suitable business entity for your company and register it accordingly. This crucial step not only legitimizes your operations but also defines the framework within which your business will operate. Sole Property Management Business. Business losses and profits go on the personal tax returns of a sole proprietor. A Partnership. Do you have a few commercial properties to look after? Partners claim business income on personal taxes. They are liable for claims, too. Limited Liability Corporation. Contrary to popular belief, an LLC isn’t an incorporated business. The property management company’s owners have limited financial and legal liability. Corporation. Business and personal taxes get filed separately. Open a Business Bank Account As a property management company, you could be working with various clients, including real estate investors owning multiple investment properties or individuals with residential property concerns. Regardless of the client base, a business bank account is essential for managing your company’s financial operations. This involves more than just securing a business credit card. For example, certain states mandate that funds from lease agreements be kept separate from security deposits, which requires diligent financial management. Make Sure You Have the Licenses and Permits Required in Your State Property owners expect the professionals managing their real estate properties to hold the necessary licenses and permits. Compliance with these legal requirements is key to building trust with your clients. In this context, having a real estate license, although not always necessary, can be an added advantage. Property Management License: This is a requirement for some boards. You’ll need to pass a property manager license exam. Real estate investors favor these. Real Estate Brokers License: This is a common requirement. The exam usually contains both property management and other questions. Here are some easy steps to get a real estate broker’s license. Leasing Agent License: Some states require these that specifically focus on activities in a defined real estate market. Create a Business Website and Choose a Location In the initial stages, an online presence can help you save on commercial office space and tap into the digital market, where most property management companies now operate. Having a professional website will not only save you money but also expand your reach to potential clients. However, remember to consider associated costs, such as search engine optimization for your website and hosting fees, which are essential to increasing your visibility online. A business email hosting service is good. The setup fee should be low. Consider Ongoing Costs and Fees Your business will need to balance costs and fees to stay afloat. Here’s some of what you’ll need to look at. Ongoing Management Fee. The money you get paid. Charge a flat rate or a commission on the rental value. Lease Renewal Fees. Be sure to clarify these. Usually, they can be at a flat rate or a percentage of rent. Legal Fees. You don’t need to pay for them. They’re optional, but a real estate lawyer can help. Max cost is $1,500 USD. Utilities. This is a cost if you’re going brick and mortar. Water, heat, and hydro. Property taxes, too. Advertising. Business cards, signage, and digital marketing are just a few possibilities. The national average for a business sign is $438 dollars. Don’t forget to add in your tools and a leasing fee if there’s no existing tenant. Get Your Taxes in Order Understanding and organizing your tax obligations is vital for running a successful property management company. Taxes in the property management sector can be complex, and they vary depending on your business structure and location. Here are key points to consider: Research Local Tax Laws: Ensure you are aware of the state and local tax laws applicable to property management businesses in your area. Consider Hiring a Tax Professional: An accountant or tax specialist can help navigate the complexities of real estate taxes, deductions, and credits. Organize Your Records: Keep detailed financial records, including all income, expenses, and receipts. Familiarize Yourself with Self-Employment Taxes: As a sole proprietor, you should be ready to manage self-employment taxes that include contributions to Social Security and Medicare. Regular Tax Filings: Ensure timely quarterly or annual tax filings to avoid penalties. Investigate Tax Deductions: Determine possible tax deductions related to property management, including operating expenses, travel costs, and office expenses. If you’re a self-employed manager of your own company, there are separate rules. Purchase Business Insurance Just like any other business, obtaining business insurance is essential for a property management company. This protective measure safeguards your business against unforeseen financial challenges, offering a safety net for your venture. Errors and Omissions Insurance. Also called professional liability insurance. Protects against property manager mistakes. General Liability Insurance. Covers day-to-day services. Tenant Discrimination Insurance. It is not necessarily covered under the general liability policy. Plan Your Accounting System Setting up an efficient accounting system is crucial for managing the financial aspects of a property management company. An effective system will help you track income, expenses, and profitability. Here are some important steps to consider: Choose the Right Accounting Software: Select software that can specifically cater to property management needs, like tracking rent payments and maintenance expenses. Maintain Separate Accounts: Keep client funds, such as security deposits and rent collections, separate from your business operating funds. Regular Financial Reporting: Generate monthly financial reports to stay informed about your business’s financial health. Monitor Cash Flow: Keep a close eye on your cash flow to ensure you have enough funds to cover operating expenses and plan for future investments. Hire a Professional Accountant: It may be beneficial to engage an accountant who specializes in real estate and property management to handle your financial records and offer expert financial guidance. Keeping the books straight is important. Look for software that can capture records for individual properties. Set Up Your Business Phone System Given the nature of a property management business, maintaining consistent communication is key. Opt for a business phone system that offers useful features like a mobile app, voicemail-to-email service, and the flexibility to add or remove users as per your business needs. Hire Staff Now, let’s talk about staffing. Here are some of the key roles you’ll need to fill to ensure the smooth operation of your property management company. In certain circumstances, you might need to look into obtaining a National Interest Exemption (NIE). RoleDescription Property ManagerThey are responsible for collecting rents, managing budgets, and overseeing various property-related tasks. AccountantTheir role involves managing all financial records, keeping track of incomes and expenses, and ensuring financial compliance. Maintenance OfficerAs the name suggests, they handle all maintenance requests, ensuring that all properties are kept in good repair and meeting all necessary standards. Marketing Officer (If budget allows)Responsible for creating and implementing marketing strategies to attract potential tenants and increase the company's visibility in the market. Finalize Your Services and Pricing Structure Once you have a clear understanding of your services, it’s time to associate costs and fees with each service. This will allow you to calculate revenue forecasts and make necessary adjustments to the numbers, ensuring your pricing remains competitive while also profitable. Consider Property Management Software Financial tracking is crucial when dealing with rental properties, making property management software an invaluable tool. Features like rent collection and tenant tracking are essential to efficiently manage your property portfolio. Market Your Business An effective marketing strategy can significantly boost your real estate sale activities. Ensure your website is well-optimized for search engines and designed to be mobile-friendly, as the majority of users now access the web via mobile devices. Expand Your Portfolio Every property owner seeks a successful property manager to maximize their return on investment (ROI). Starting a property management business becomes more straightforward when following the steps listed here. As your portfolio expands and your clients’ monthly rental income spikes, you’ll find more property owners queuing up to bring you on board. Starting a property management company requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and a constant eye on evolving market trends. This journey might appear challenging, but by adhering to the steps detailed in this guide, you are setting yourself up for success in the dynamic realm of property management. Always remember that, at the core, this business revolves around people and properties – a seamless blend of strong relationships and meticulous care for assets. As your business takes root and begins to flourish, you’ll find the journey equally rewarding as the destination itself. Go forth and conquer the world of property management with confidence and competence! What is a Property Management Company? So, what does a property management company do? Simply put, these individuals or teams shoulder the responsibility of managing a property that is owned by another party. Their jurisdiction includes various types of residential property, along with industrial and commercial spaces. Their tasks range from rent collection and property advertisement to the regular cleaning and maintenance of the premises. These companies are often the preferred choice for absentee landlords who seek expert management for their properties. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Property Management Company? You need to consider capital and operating expenses to start this type of business. Property management enterprises start out with costs averaging $19,267 dollars. These businesses often collaborate with real estate agents to facilitate the sale of apartment buildings and contribute to other related activities. Image: Depositphotos This article, "How to Start a Property Management Company" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Are you considering starting a property management service? It’s essential to recognize that the responsibilities of a property manager and real estate agents overlap in several areas. Both positions operate within the realm of the real estate industry and have some common requirements. A broker possesses the qualifications to operate as a property manager. What follows is an outline of property management activities and guidance on launching a business that caters to rental properties or investment properties. The future looks good. The property management market is projected to reach a value of 21.4 Billion USD. So, if you are considering how to make money in real estate, property management is one reliable way to achieve that. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning how to start a property management company, now is an excellent time to explore this opportunity. Important Steps to Starting a Property Management Company The process of starting a property management company is not a spontaneous one; it necessitates following a series of well-thought-out steps. Let’s delve into what these steps entail. Research Other Property Management Companies Before you can start your own property management company, you need to know what you’re up against. That means market research into the property management industry. Potential property managers need to know who their direct and indirect competitors are. Look at: Who their customers are. These are your potential clients. What products do they offer? Do they sell properties, too? Their pricing. What’s a month’s rent worth? Remember, direct competitors are other property managers. Indirect competition can include in-house managers. And those who sell real estate. Choose a Name and Brand Your Property Management Company One of the first steps in setting up your property management company is to choose a name and build a brand around it. An impactful, well-thought-out name can leave a lasting impression and help in establishing your identity in the market. Here are a few tips for aspiring property managers looking to brand their new business venture. Remember, successful property management companies start their journey with a strong brand. Make sure the name is unique. There are legal issues about duplication in most states. Try a Google search to see what’s taken. Choose the URL carefully. It needs to be memorable. Don’t just focus on the SEO value. You’ll get traffic from one person, remember. It shouldn’t be hard to spell or understand. Write a Property Management Business Plan Any successful property manager understands the value of a robust business plan in guiding their enterprise. Such a plan assists in multiple areas, including setting achievable goals, choosing an appropriate business model, and keeping the focus sharp. In the following sections, we will cover a few crucial points that need to be addressed in a well-structured business plan. Business Model and Services. Add the general structure of your business here. Plus a few words on who you are and what you do. Goals. Property managers need to have long and short-term objectives. Landlord resources written down can help you put these together. Structure. Most SMBs have specific positions. Outline them. These are key areas that a new property manager should address. Here’s a general business plan template site. Form a Legal Entity and Register To operate legally, you’ll need to select a suitable business entity for your company and register it accordingly. This crucial step not only legitimizes your operations but also defines the framework within which your business will operate. Sole Property Management Business. Business losses and profits go on the personal tax returns of a sole proprietor. A Partnership. Do you have a few commercial properties to look after? Partners claim business income on personal taxes. They are liable for claims, too. Limited Liability Corporation. Contrary to popular belief, an LLC isn’t an incorporated business. The property management company’s owners have limited financial and legal liability. Corporation. Business and personal taxes get filed separately. Open a Business Bank Account As a property management company, you could be working with various clients, including real estate investors owning multiple investment properties or individuals with residential property concerns. Regardless of the client base, a business bank account is essential for managing your company’s financial operations. This involves more than just securing a business credit card. For example, certain states mandate that funds from lease agreements be kept separate from security deposits, which requires diligent financial management. Make Sure You Have the Licenses and Permits Required in Your State Property owners expect the professionals managing their real estate properties to hold the necessary licenses and permits. Compliance with these legal requirements is key to building trust with your clients. In this context, having a real estate license, although not always necessary, can be an added advantage. Property Management License: This is a requirement for some boards. You’ll need to pass a property manager license exam. Real estate investors favor these. Real Estate Brokers License: This is a common requirement. The exam usually contains both property management and other questions. Here are some easy steps to get a real estate broker’s license. Leasing Agent License: Some states require these that specifically focus on activities in a defined real estate market. Create a Business Website and Choose a Location In the initial stages, an online presence can help you save on commercial office space and tap into the digital market, where most property management companies now operate. Having a professional website will not only save you money but also expand your reach to potential clients. However, remember to consider associated costs, such as search engine optimization for your website and hosting fees, which are essential to increasing your visibility online. A business email hosting service is good. The setup fee should be low. Consider Ongoing Costs and Fees Your business will need to balance costs and fees to stay afloat. Here’s some of what you’ll need to look at. Ongoing Management Fee. The money you get paid. Charge a flat rate or a commission on the rental value. Lease Renewal Fees. Be sure to clarify these. Usually, they can be at a flat rate or a percentage of rent. Legal Fees. You don’t need to pay for them. They’re optional, but a real estate lawyer can help. Max cost is $1,500 USD. Utilities. This is a cost if you’re going brick and mortar. Water, heat, and hydro. Property taxes, too. Advertising. Business cards, signage, and digital marketing are just a few possibilities. The national average for a business sign is $438 dollars. Don’t forget to add in your tools and a leasing fee if there’s no existing tenant. Get Your Taxes in Order Understanding and organizing your tax obligations is vital for running a successful property management company. Taxes in the property management sector can be complex, and they vary depending on your business structure and location. Here are key points to consider: Research Local Tax Laws: Ensure you are aware of the state and local tax laws applicable to property management businesses in your area. Consider Hiring a Tax Professional: An accountant or tax specialist can help navigate the complexities of real estate taxes, deductions, and credits. Organize Your Records: Keep detailed financial records, including all income, expenses, and receipts. Familiarize Yourself with Self-Employment Taxes: As a sole proprietor, you should be ready to manage self-employment taxes that include contributions to Social Security and Medicare. Regular Tax Filings: Ensure timely quarterly or annual tax filings to avoid penalties. Investigate Tax Deductions: Determine possible tax deductions related to property management, including operating expenses, travel costs, and office expenses. If you’re a self-employed manager of your own company, there are separate rules. Purchase Business Insurance Just like any other business, obtaining business insurance is essential for a property management company. This protective measure safeguards your business against unforeseen financial challenges, offering a safety net for your venture. Errors and Omissions Insurance. Also called professional liability insurance. Protects against property manager mistakes. General Liability Insurance. Covers day-to-day services. Tenant Discrimination Insurance. It is not necessarily covered under the general liability policy. Plan Your Accounting System Setting up an efficient accounting system is crucial for managing the financial aspects of a property management company. An effective system will help you track income, expenses, and profitability. Here are some important steps to consider: Choose the Right Accounting Software: Select software that can specifically cater to property management needs, like tracking rent payments and maintenance expenses. Maintain Separate Accounts: Keep client funds, such as security deposits and rent collections, separate from your business operating funds. Regular Financial Reporting: Generate monthly financial reports to stay informed about your business’s financial health. Monitor Cash Flow: Keep a close eye on your cash flow to ensure you have enough funds to cover operating expenses and plan for future investments. Hire a Professional Accountant: It may be beneficial to engage an accountant who specializes in real estate and property management to handle your financial records and offer expert financial guidance. Keeping the books straight is important. Look for software that can capture records for individual properties. Set Up Your Business Phone System Given the nature of a property management business, maintaining consistent communication is key. Opt for a business phone system that offers useful features like a mobile app, voicemail-to-email service, and the flexibility to add or remove users as per your business needs. Hire Staff Now, let’s talk about staffing. Here are some of the key roles you’ll need to fill to ensure the smooth operation of your property management company. In certain circumstances, you might need to look into obtaining a National Interest Exemption (NIE). RoleDescription Property ManagerThey are responsible for collecting rents, managing budgets, and overseeing various property-related tasks. AccountantTheir role involves managing all financial records, keeping track of incomes and expenses, and ensuring financial compliance. Maintenance OfficerAs the name suggests, they handle all maintenance requests, ensuring that all properties are kept in good repair and meeting all necessary standards. Marketing Officer (If budget allows)Responsible for creating and implementing marketing strategies to attract potential tenants and increase the company's visibility in the market. Finalize Your Services and Pricing Structure Once you have a clear understanding of your services, it’s time to associate costs and fees with each service. This will allow you to calculate revenue forecasts and make necessary adjustments to the numbers, ensuring your pricing remains competitive while also profitable. Consider Property Management Software Financial tracking is crucial when dealing with rental properties, making property management software an invaluable tool. Features like rent collection and tenant tracking are essential to efficiently manage your property portfolio. Market Your Business An effective marketing strategy can significantly boost your real estate sale activities. Ensure your website is well-optimized for search engines and designed to be mobile-friendly, as the majority of users now access the web via mobile devices. Expand Your Portfolio Every property owner seeks a successful property manager to maximize their return on investment (ROI). Starting a property management business becomes more straightforward when following the steps listed here. As your portfolio expands and your clients’ monthly rental income spikes, you’ll find more property owners queuing up to bring you on board. Starting a property management company requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and a constant eye on evolving market trends. This journey might appear challenging, but by adhering to the steps detailed in this guide, you are setting yourself up for success in the dynamic realm of property management. Always remember that, at the core, this business revolves around people and properties – a seamless blend of strong relationships and meticulous care for assets. As your business takes root and begins to flourish, you’ll find the journey equally rewarding as the destination itself. Go forth and conquer the world of property management with confidence and competence! What is a Property Management Company? So, what does a property management company do? Simply put, these individuals or teams shoulder the responsibility of managing a property that is owned by another party. Their jurisdiction includes various types of residential property, along with industrial and commercial spaces. Their tasks range from rent collection and property advertisement to the regular cleaning and maintenance of the premises. These companies are often the preferred choice for absentee landlords who seek expert management for their properties. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Property Management Company? You need to consider capital and operating expenses to start this type of business. Property management enterprises start out with costs averaging $19,267 dollars. These businesses often collaborate with real estate agents to facilitate the sale of apartment buildings and contribute to other related activities. Image: Depositphotos This article, "How to Start a Property Management Company" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

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A sweeping new U.S. tariff on products made in China is expected to increase the prices American consumers pay for a wide array of products, from the ultracheap apparel sold on online shopping platforms to toys and electronic devices such as computers and cellphones. An additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods took effect Tuesday, while the U.S. Postal Service announced it will stop accepting parcels inbound from China and Hong Kong until further notice. The previous day, President Donald Trump agreed to pause his threatened tariffs against Mexico and Canada for 30 days following negotiations on Trump’s demands for the North American nations to take steps to reduce illegal immigration and the flow of drugs such as fentanyl into the U.S. After failing to get a similar White House reprieve, China struck back with retaliatory tariffs on some U.S. goods that are set to begin next week. The sheer volume and variety of the China-made merchandise sold in the U.S. means residents would probably see the prices of many typically inexpensive items tick higher if the tit-for-tat tariffs persist. These are some of the products most likely to be impacted: Electronics, home supplies, and car parts The U.S. imported about $427 billion worth of goods from China in 2023, the most recent year with complete data, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Consumer electronics, including cellphones, computers, and other tech accessories, make up the biggest import categories. China is a dominant production engine for tech gear, including for American companies like Apple that have their products assembled in the country. In 2023, China accounted for 78% of U.S. smartphone imports and 79% of laptop and tablet imports, the Consumer Technology Association trade group reported. The tariffs also may affect how much consumers pay for typically inexpensive clothing, shoes, and kitchen items like pots and pans, as well as the big-ticket items, such as appliances, furniture, and auto parts. Jay Salaytah, 43, who runs his own auto repair shop in Detroit, said he bought some pieces of equipment sooner than he might have, anticipating they would cost more if Trump implemented his campaign promise to use import tariffs as a tool to promote U.S. manufacturing. “I knew the costs were going to go up, and these are manufactured in China,” Salaytah said of a probe test light he purchased before Tuesday’s tariff went into effect. Low-cost apparel and accessories In addition to imposing a new tariff on Chinese imports, Trump’s executive order also suspended a little-known trade exemption that allowed goods worth less than $800 to come into the U.S. duty-free. The order left open the possibility for the loophole to still be used with shipments from other countries. The trade rule, known as “de minimis,” has existed for nearly a century. It came under greater scrutiny in recent years due to the rapidly growing number of low-cost items coming into the U.S. from China, mainly from prominent China-founded online retailers such as Shein, Temu, and Alibaba’s AliExpress. Former President Joe Biden’s administration proposed a crackdown on the loophole in September, but the rules did not take effect before Biden left office. Shein and Temu have gained global popularity by offering a quickly updated assortment of ultra-inexpensive clothes, accessories, gifts, and gadgets shipped mostly from China, allowing the two e-commerce companies to compete on the home turf of American companies. Seattle-based Amazon is trying to compete with them through an online storefront that mimics their business model by offering cheap products shipped directly from China. Chinese exports of low-value packages soared to $66 billion in 2023, up from $5.3 billion in 2018, according to report released last week by the Congressional Research Service. In the U.S., Temu and Shein comprise about 17% of the discount market for fast fashion, toys, and other consumer goods, the report said. How much will prices go up? It’s unclear. Under de minimis, Shein, Temu, and AliExpress could bypass taxes collected by customs authorities. But under the changes effective Tuesday, company shipments from China will now be subject to existing duties plus the new 10% tariff imposed by Trump, analysts said. “The vast majority of these orders are valued less than $800, which means all or virtually all of them are going to get caught in that,” Youssef Squali, an analyst at Truist Financial, said. Juozas Kaziukenas, founder of e-commerce intelligence firm Marketplace Pulse, said he thinks the price increases on platforms like Shein and Temu will be “pretty small” and the products they sell will remain cheap. However, the rule change is likely to result in delivery delays since the packages now have to go through customs, Kaziukenas said. The new tariffs will also hit third-party sellers on Amazon that import products from China, according to Squali. He expects sellers to eat some of the costs and pass the rest onto customers, which he thinks could result in percentage price increases in the mid-single digits. Other e-commerce sites that host businesses, such as Etsy, are also going to be impacted, Squali said. Temu, which is owned by China’s PDD Holdings, has previously said its growth did not depend on the de minimis policy. Though most of its products are shipped from China, Temu has been recruiting Chinese merchants to store inventory in the U.S., a move that experts said would allow it to not be as exposed to changes around the trade rule. In January, China also introduced measures to help cross-border e-commerce build overseas warehousing by offering them tax rebates or tax exemptions What are U.S. retailers saying? The day after November’s U.S. presidential election, Brieane Olson, CEO of teen clothing chain PacSun, went to Hong Kong to meet with factory executives to figure out ways to prepare for Trump’s tariff plan. Roughly 35% to 40% of PacSun’s garments are made in China, even as the chain has accelerated moves to diversify with suppliers in countries like Cambodia and Vietnam. But Olson said Trump’s 10% tariff on Chinese goods was less extreme than the company anticipated. For now, PacSun doesn’t plan to increase prices on its products or move its manufacturing of knitwear and denim out of China. Toys are another category of consumer products that relies heavily on imports from China. Greg Ahearn, the president and CEO of The Toy Association trade group, said he thinks toy companies that source in China are going to absorb the cost of the new tariff in the short term. Eventually, those price hikes will be moved onto the consumer, Ahearn said. Associated Press writers Anne D’Innocenzio in New York, and Christopher Rugaber and Didi Tang in Washington contributed to this report. —Haleluya Hadero, Associated Press View the full article

Brussels to examine whether Chinese-founded fashion group that is targeting London listing is selling illegal goodsView the full article

The Corleone family’s quest for legitimacy mirrors modern business succession planning. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

The Corleone family’s quest for legitimacy mirrors modern business succession planning. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

Welcome to our weekly Search Engine Land series, Everything you need to know about Google Ads in less than 3 minutes. Every Wednesday, I’m highlighting a different Google Ads feature, and what you need to know to get the best results from it – all in a quick 3-minute read. Today, we’re discussing Video View campaigns (VVC). I’ll break down what they are, how they work, and when to use them as part of your Google Ads strategy. I’ll cover: What are Video view campaigns in Google Ads? What is a view in Google Ads? How will your ads appear? Video view campaigns and Remarketing Audience targeting and Content targeting in Video view campaigns How to create effective video ads with the YouTube ABCDs When to use Video view campaigns What are Video View campaigns in Google Ads? Video video campaigns, or VVC for short, are one of the subtypes you can choose when creating a Video campaign in Google Ads. What sets this subtype apart: you bid for views rather than reach by using the Target CPV bid strategy. What is a view in Google Ads? How will your ads appear? Here’s where it gets interesting: a “view” in Google Ads isn’t the same as on other platforms. Google Ads counts a view as a truly engaged action, and the definition depends on the placement: Skippable in-stream ads: These are the classic YouTube ads where you can hit “Skip ad” after 5 seconds. A view is counted if someone watches at least 30 seconds, or the entire ad, whichever comes first. Shorts ads: Given their shorter format, a view is registered when someone watches 10 seconds, or the whole ad, whichever comes first. In-feed ads: These are ads that appear as thumbnails. A view is counted when someone clicks to watch your ad, or if they watch it autoplay at thumbnail-size for at least 10 seconds. Video View campaigns and Remarketing One of the most powerful features of Video View campaigns is their ability to generate highly engaged audiences for remarketing. When you run a Video View campaign, you’re not just throwing your video out into the void; you’re building a valuable audience of people who have shown genuine interest in your content. Because VVCs only run on skippable inventory, you can then retarget those who’ve viewed your video ads with more specific, conversion-focused campaigns. In contrast, non-skippable ads only generate impressions, not views, so you can’t remarket to people who see your non-skippable video ads Audience targeting and Content targeting in Video View campaigns Video View campaigns offer every kind of targeting option available in Google Ads, which means so many opportunities to reach your ideal customers. Those targeting options include: Content targeting: Topics Keywords Placements Audience targeting: Google’s audience segments (Affinity, In-Market, Life Events, Detailed Demographics) Your data segments (website remarketing, app remarketing, YouTube remarketing, Customer Match, Google engaged audiences) Custom segments, combined segments, optimized targeting and more How to create effective video ads with the YouTube ABCDs Success with video campaigns is not just about your targeting. You need to craft effective creative that will engage and inspire your audience. Google’s data-backed ABCD framework can help. You want to: Attract: Hook viewers from the get-go with compelling visuals and audio. Brand: Make sure your brand is front and center early on and throughout. Connect: Build an emotional connection with your audience through storytelling, humour or surprise. Direct: Include a clear call to action to guide viewers on what you want them to do next. When to use Video View campaigns Video View campaigns work best when used as part of a larger Google Ads strategy. Think of them as your top-of-funnel tactic – a way to cast a wide net, generate brand awareness, and build remarketing audiences. Since you’re paying per view, you can achieve significant reach at a lower cost compared to other campaign types. However, conversions aren’t the primary goal here. You should measure the success of your Video view campaigns by reach, view-through rate, and cost per view. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today...View the full article

The Google widget for your Android home screen has a new hidden feature that's disabled by default. In its latest update, the Google app has added a new customization feature, letting you add a new shortcut to the Google app's widget. This will let you tap an icon within the widget to quickly jump to reading the news, seeing weather updates, or catching up on sports scores. To get it, first ensure your Google app is updated to the latest version (16.3.34 or above). Then, open the Google app on your smartphone and tap the Profile icon in the top toolbar. Choose the Settings option and naigate to the Customize Search Widget menu. Here, you can take a moment to customize the look of the widget by tweaking the color and the transparency. Scroll down until you'll see the new Shortcuts section, featuring new shortcuts like Translate, Song Search, Weather, Translate (Camera), Translate (Text), Sports, Dictionary, Homework, and Finance. Tap the Plus button to add your new shortcut. Credit: Khamosh Pathak Choose the shortcut that you want, which you'll be able to preview right up top. The Google widget only supports one shortcut at a time, so you can't add multiple shortcuts right now. The new shortcut will appear next to the default icons for Voice Search and Lens, inside the Google search box. The icons don't support Material You theming, so they won't match with your home screen theme if you're using one. But for most Android users, that isn't an issue. In case you don't already have the Google widget set up, you can easily do so from the home screen. The steps differ slightly based on which Android OS you're using. Tap and hold on an empty part of the home screen and choose the Widgets option. Here, scroll to the Google app section and add the Google widget. You can expand it or make it smaller. Now, with the widget, you will see your new shortcut right there. Tap on the shortcut to jump to the relevant feature inside the Google app. View the full article

In the first weeks of Donald Trump’s second term in office, Elon Musk has been busy seizing control of instruments of government power, causing many to wonder who is really in charge. “Elon Musk is President,” The Atlantic’s Jonathan Lemire declared. “There has never been a private citizen like him.” Newly confirmed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently granted Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to a highly sensitive computer system—described as a “a checkbook for the entire federal government”—that distributes trillions of dollars annually. Musk, flanked by a cadre of young engineers with no government experience, as Wired has reported, are hacking away at sensitive federal systems likely without proper security clearance. Naturally, Musk and his ragtag child army have raised bright red flags around Washington. “So many of these things are so wildly illegal that I think they’re playing a quantity game and assuming the system can’t react to all this illegality at once,” Georgetown Law professor David Super told the Washington Post in response to Musk’s blitz on the federal government. Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden asked the Government Accountability Office on Tuesday to open an inquiry into Bessent’s granting DOGE access to the Treasury payment system. In a separate letter sent to Bessent last week, Wyden wrote, “I can think of no good reason why political operators who have demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law would need access to these sensitive, mission-critical systems.” But Wyden’s concern also highlighted another major conflict of interest that makes Musk’s powers worrying: his ties to China. “I am concerned Musk’s enormous business operations in China—a country whose intelligence agencies have stolen vast amounts of sensitive data about Americans, including U.S. government employee data by hacking U.S. government systems—endangers U.S. cybersecurity and creates conflicts of interest that make his access to these systems a national security risk,” he wrote. Wyden cited a recent Chinese breach of the Treasury Department’s systems in which hackers accessed former Secretary Janet Yellen’s emails. While most American companies do not—or cannot—operate in China, Musk’s Tesla certainly does. In 2024, the electric carmaker sold 657,000 cars in China, up 8.8% from the year before. It also operates massive car and battery manufacturing facilities in Shanghai. The company received “several unusual concessions” from the Chinese government, Wyden noted, letting Tesla operate independently without a joint venture with a Chinese partner, favorable loans, and “a discounted corporate tax rate of 15% in China, something that could change quickly if Musk were to anger the Chinese government.” In January, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Musk, urging Tesla and other U.S. companies to “seize the opportunity and share in the fruits of China’s development.” Musk vowed to “deepen investment cooperation with China.” And with Musk helming the dissolution of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the agency in charge of foreign aid and assistance, critics have warned that America’s retreat could create pathways for China to expand its influence abroad. “The Trump administration has just put America last, while handing a gift to our biggest adversaries, notably China,” Michael Schiffer, former USAID assistant administrator in Asia, wrote in Just Security. “America’s alliances will suffer. U.S. partners will be at risk. And America’s enemies will rejoice.” With the U.S. and China on the brink of exacerbating its ongoing trade war, the man running behind the scenes and fiddling with the bells, knobs, and whistles of the U.S. government has no electoral mandate, no real position, no proper security clearance, and deep conflicts of interest with his business. What could go wrong? View the full article

It's Android security patch time again, and in the Android Security Bulletin for February 2025, Google has addressed 47 different bugs affecting its mobile operating system—one of which "may be under limited, targeted exploitation." In other words, hackers may already be taking advantage of it in the wild. As usual, the patches here cover all kinds of different issues, from attacks that could take advantage of the AutoFill function on Android, to exploits in Qualcomm chips that could create corruptions in the memory on a device. Each bug is ranked in terms of its severity, and linked to a particular part of the system. Google doesn't offer too much detail about potential hacks in the interests of security, but the vulnerability that may have already been exploited is labeled CVE-2024-53104. As per The Hacker News, it relates to "privilege escalation" that could be triggered through an externally attached USB video device. That means malicious code could trick Android into giving it VIP access to the system, and to settings and data access that are normally closed off from third-party apps. It would need some clever manipulation of video frame data to work, and it's reportedly been present in the Linux kernel since 2008. According to GrapheneOS, one way the security hole could be taken advantage of is to pull data off a phone or tablet without permission—though physical access to the device would be required. There are no public details of how this might have been actively exploited, or by whom, but this latest update will fix the problem. What Android users need to do Check for security updates for your Android phone. Credit: Lifehacker As well as issuing updates for its own Pixel phones and applying patches to the core Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code that all Android manufacturers use, Google also gives the likes of Samsung, Motorola, and OnePlus at least a month's advance warning that these fixes are coming, so Android phone makers should be prepared. Security patches are usually pushed out fairly rapidly for obvious reasons, and in most cases all you need to do is sit and wait for an alert that an update is ready for your phone or tablet. These updates work in tandem with the real time security protection offered by Google Play Protect. If you're on a Pixel phone, you can check for updates by heading to Settings then tapping System > Software update > System update. Whether or not an update is available, you can see the version of Android you're on and when the last update was applied. Samsung Galaxy phones work along similar lines: Again, you'll find a Software update entry in Settings, and you can choose Download and install if there are any updates in the pipeline. Android devices from other manufacturers will offer a similar option. Google has actually split this security update into two, so its Android partners can address the most critical bugs more quickly before moving on to the second batch—so you may find you've got a couple of updates coming your way. "Android partners are encouraged to fix all issues in this bulletin and use the latest security patch level," says Google. View the full article

Tea is one of the most popular beverages around the world. As a result, starting a business that offers this healthy and delicious drink can be a rewarding and profitable experience. If you’re interested in starting a tea business, a franchise can help you get up and running quickly. These opportunities give you access to proven menus and systems. And you can attach yourself to a recognizable name right away. There are tons of tea franchises available, all with different niches and specialties. Understanding the options can help you make the best decision for your new business venture. Selecting the Perfect Tea Franchise: Our Methodology When it comes to owning a tea franchise, you’re entering the world of soothing brews and delightful flavors. But how do you pick the best one from the options available? We’ve ranked these criteria on a scale of importance, using a 1-10 rating scale, with 10 being the highest importance and 1 being the lowest: Quality of Tea Offerings (Rating: 10/10): The quality and variety of tea options should be exceptional, as it’s the core product and the primary reason customers visit a tea franchise. Brand Reputation and Recognition (Rating: 9/10): A well-established and recognized brand is crucial. It often reflects the quality of the tea and can help attract loyal customers. Location and Foot Traffic (Rating: 9/10): Choosing the right location with high foot traffic is vital for success. It’s equally crucial as brand reputation because it directly impacts visibility and sales. Menu Variety and Customization (Rating: 8/10): Offering a diverse menu with customization options can enhance the customer experience and cater to various tastes and preferences. Franchise Fees and Costs (Rating: 7/10): The financial aspect is important, but it’s not as vital as the quality of tea and location. Consider initial franchise fees, ongoing royalties, and startup costs. Marketing and Advertising Support (Rating: 7/10): Effective marketing support from the franchisor can significantly boost brand visibility and customer acquisition. Supplier Relationships (Rating: 6/10): Maintaining reliable and cost-effective supplier relationships is significant but slightly less crucial than core factors. Training and Support (Rating: 6/10): Comprehensive training and ongoing support from the franchisor are essential but not as high-priority as core elements. Equipment and Technology (Rating: 5/10): While having the right equipment and technology is important for running operations efficiently, it is considered less critical than other factors. Community Involvement (Rating: 4/10): Engaging with the local community can be beneficial, but it’s not as critical as the core factors. Unique Tea Franchises Here are tea franchise concepts to consider for aspiring entrepreneurs. Fava Tea Fava Tea is a retail tea business that currently has multiple locations in Wisconsin, with potential expansion opportunities throughout the U.S. The company sells a variety of specialty teas along with related products and gifts. The company also aims to provide a memorable experience for visitors. TeaGschwendner TeaGschwendner first opened in Germany in the late 1970’s. Since then, the company has opened up more than 130 retail locations in seven countries. Their U.S. operations are headquartered in Chicago. New franchisees and managers can receive training there before getting started. The Teahouse This Texas-based chain specializes in tea and other healthy beverages in a quick service environment. The Teahouse is a family-friendly company that has been established for many years. They use carefully chosen ingredients in their teas. Additionally, they aim to provide quality service and open communication to franchisees. The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Though not exclusively a tea franchise, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf offers a variety of both coffee and tea beverages. This tea and coffee franchising company has since grown to include more than 1,200 locations around the world. The company is looking to expand through multi-unit franchise development. The business also offers a variety of nontraditional models and location options, including those at airports, colleges, hotels, and grocery stores. It provides training, development, design, operations, marketing, and logistical support. Teapioca Lounge Originally established, Teapioca Lounge offers traditional and specialty teas along with other beverage options. The brand aims to mix both East and West tea traditions in quick service environments. The company is known for product quality, innovative drinks, and trendy settings. The franchise provides training and grand opening assistance for franchisees. Dobra Tea Founded in 1992 in Prague, Czech Republic, Dobra Tea aims to spread authentic tea culture from around the world. The company already has several locations throughout the U.S. and more in other parts of the world. Dobra’s team helps franchisees with training, publicity, and more. They specifically look for franchisees who love tea and tea culture. The company doesn’t list any franchise fees publicly. TSUJIRI TSUJIRI is a global tea brand that specializes in Japanese tea culture. The company even offers specialty products like matcha. TSUJIRI doesn’t currently have any locations in the U.S. However, there are a few in Canada. The company is open to expansion in new markets. Inquire about specific costs if you’re interested in bringing this franchise to a new customer base. Sweetwaters Sweetwaters is a franchise coffee and tea house. If you’re a tea lover, you’ll probably appreciate the variety of classic and premium teas, along with the tea boxes that are available for sale. Franchisees can enjoy a comprehensive training program along with marketing and operations support. Spice Merchants With stores in several states throughout the U.S., Spice Merchants is a retail business that offers spices, teas, and other specialty food items. The company offers help with training, inventory, and store setup. You don’t need a culinary or tea background to get started. Presotea Presotea specializes in espresso-style tea. The company has more than 370 locations in countries around the world. While the brand isn’t especially active in the United States, it is looking for new expansion opportunities. Presotea offers training and consultation along with management counseling and other services for franchisees. The Spice & Tea Exchange The Spice & Tea Exchange is a retail business with franchise opportunities available. There are already franchise locations set up throughout the United States. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy some brand recognition depending on the market you choose. The company encourages new franchisees to learn from current business owners. It also offers a training program called Spice UniversiTEA. Jamba Juice Jamba Juice is a well-known chain, though not particularly famous for tea. However, it does offer a variety of tea products including Talbott Teas. Other products include smoothies, juice, and other healthy beverage options. The company provides training, operations support, and access to high-quality vendors. The brand looks for entrepreneurial individuals. Those with experience in food service or retail, as well as those interested in opening multiple locations, are preferred. Tea Shop Tea Shop is a tea franchise based in Spain. However, the company is expanding into new markets like Brazil and Italy as well. There’s no word on whether the company plans to expand into the U.S. market, but interested franchisees may want to keep this brand on their radar. The company provides individualized information about the business model and operations throughout each step of the franchising process. Hiccups Restaurant & Tea House Hiccups offers an Asian Fusion restaurant mixed with a trendy tea house. The brand is known for specialty drinks, fresh ingredients, and welcoming environments. Demmers Teahaus Demmers Teahaus offers a wide array of specialty teas in a traditional store environment. Most of the company’s locations are currently in Europe and Asia. The brand looks for individuals who are passionate about tea and have business experience. The company provides assistance with training, marketing, and logistics. Demmers doesn’t make franchising costs available. Interested franchisees must inquire directly to get more information. i-Tea i-Tea offers specialty drinks in a quick-service environment. Most of its current locations are in California. However, the brand is open to expanding to new markets as well. The stores also provide some food items. Fees and other expenses vary by location, and the company hasn’t published that information. As a result, those interested in becoming franchisees must contact the company for more information. Camellia’s Tea House Camellia’s Tea House offers tastings and specialty teas in traditional store and tea house environments. The company is heavily involved in traditional tea culture in the U.K. However, they now sell products in other countries as well. The company is still relatively small. They don’t publish information about costs and fees, but an inquiry might result in more information. Creating a Unique Tea Experience When you venture into the world of tea franchises, it’s not just about the product; it’s about the experience you offer to your customers. To stand out in a competitive market, consider these strategies to create a unique and memorable tea experience: Tea Tastings: Organize regular tea tastings that allow customers to discover various tea varieties while learning about their origins and health benefits. Custom Blends: Enable customers to craft their own unique tea blends, enhancing the personal aspect of their tea-drinking experience. Tea Workshops: Host workshops focused on tea preparation, brewing methods, and the skill of pairing tea with various foods. Local Artisan Collaborations: Collaborate with local artisans to provide distinctive tea-related products, including handcrafted tea accessories and artisanal treats that enhance your tea offerings. Seasonal Menus: Introduce seasonal tea menus that feature special blends and flavors inspired by the time of year, creating anticipation and excitement among customers. Interactive Tea Bar: Set up an interactive tea bar where customers can watch the tea-making process, from steeping to serving, enhancing transparency and engagement. Tea and Wellness: Emphasize the health benefits of tea by providing wellness-oriented options, including herbal blends that are recognized for their positive effects on well-being. Tea Subscription Services: Launch a tea subscription service that delivers curated tea experiences to customers’ doorsteps, allowing them to explore new flavors regularly. Cultural Events: Organize cultural events and tea ceremonies that celebrate tea cultures from around the globe, allowing customers to experience the rich traditions associated with tea. StrategyDescription Tea TastingsHost regular tea tastings to explore different tea varieties and educate customers on origins and health benefits. Custom BlendsAllow customers to create custom tea blends, adding a personal touch to their tea experience. Tea WorkshopsOrganize workshops on tea preparation, brewing techniques, and pairing tea with food. Local Artisan CollaborationsPartner with local artisans to offer unique tea-related products and artisanal treats. Seasonal MenusIntroduce seasonal tea menus with special blends and flavors inspired by the time of year. Interactive Tea BarSet up an interactive tea bar where customers can observe the tea-making process for transparency. Tea and WellnessHighlight wellness aspects by offering health-focused teas, such as herbal blends. Tea Subscription ServicesLaunch a tea subscription service for curated tea experiences delivered to customers' doorsteps. Cultural EventsCelebrate global tea cultures with cultural events and tea ceremonies to immerse customers. How Profitable is a Tea Franchise? A tea franchise can be profitable under the right circumstances. However, many are not profitable, at least in the first few years. Generally, they do not carry expensive products. Overhead for traditional store environments can be high. As a result, choosing a franchise with a diversified product offering and low operating expenses can make these businesses more profitable. What is the Cost of Opening a Tea Franchise? A franchise can cost between $50,000 and $400,000 to open. Most fall somewhere between $150,000 and $250.,000. Costs depend on the business model you choose. For example, a traditional store may cost more than a small cart or other non-traditional setups. What is the Best Tea Franchise to Own? The best tea franchise depends on what you’re looking for. If you love traditional tea, a business like the Spice & Tea Exchange or The Teahouse may be of interest. Those looking for brand recognition may opt for a business that offers other options like Jamba Juice or The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Photo via Shutterstock This article, "Tea Franchises to Consider" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Tea is one of the most popular beverages around the world. As a result, starting a business that offers this healthy and delicious drink can be a rewarding and profitable experience. If you’re interested in starting a tea business, a franchise can help you get up and running quickly. These opportunities give you access to proven menus and systems. And you can attach yourself to a recognizable name right away. There are tons of tea franchises available, all with different niches and specialties. Understanding the options can help you make the best decision for your new business venture. Selecting the Perfect Tea Franchise: Our Methodology When it comes to owning a tea franchise, you’re entering the world of soothing brews and delightful flavors. But how do you pick the best one from the options available? We’ve ranked these criteria on a scale of importance, using a 1-10 rating scale, with 10 being the highest importance and 1 being the lowest: Quality of Tea Offerings (Rating: 10/10): The quality and variety of tea options should be exceptional, as it’s the core product and the primary reason customers visit a tea franchise. Brand Reputation and Recognition (Rating: 9/10): A well-established and recognized brand is crucial. It often reflects the quality of the tea and can help attract loyal customers. Location and Foot Traffic (Rating: 9/10): Choosing the right location with high foot traffic is vital for success. It’s equally crucial as brand reputation because it directly impacts visibility and sales. Menu Variety and Customization (Rating: 8/10): Offering a diverse menu with customization options can enhance the customer experience and cater to various tastes and preferences. Franchise Fees and Costs (Rating: 7/10): The financial aspect is important, but it’s not as vital as the quality of tea and location. Consider initial franchise fees, ongoing royalties, and startup costs. Marketing and Advertising Support (Rating: 7/10): Effective marketing support from the franchisor can significantly boost brand visibility and customer acquisition. Supplier Relationships (Rating: 6/10): Maintaining reliable and cost-effective supplier relationships is significant but slightly less crucial than core factors. Training and Support (Rating: 6/10): Comprehensive training and ongoing support from the franchisor are essential but not as high-priority as core elements. Equipment and Technology (Rating: 5/10): While having the right equipment and technology is important for running operations efficiently, it is considered less critical than other factors. Community Involvement (Rating: 4/10): Engaging with the local community can be beneficial, but it’s not as critical as the core factors. Unique Tea Franchises Here are tea franchise concepts to consider for aspiring entrepreneurs. Fava Tea Fava Tea is a retail tea business that currently has multiple locations in Wisconsin, with potential expansion opportunities throughout the U.S. The company sells a variety of specialty teas along with related products and gifts. The company also aims to provide a memorable experience for visitors. TeaGschwendner TeaGschwendner first opened in Germany in the late 1970’s. Since then, the company has opened up more than 130 retail locations in seven countries. Their U.S. operations are headquartered in Chicago. New franchisees and managers can receive training there before getting started. The Teahouse This Texas-based chain specializes in tea and other healthy beverages in a quick service environment. The Teahouse is a family-friendly company that has been established for many years. They use carefully chosen ingredients in their teas. Additionally, they aim to provide quality service and open communication to franchisees. The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Though not exclusively a tea franchise, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf offers a variety of both coffee and tea beverages. This tea and coffee franchising company has since grown to include more than 1,200 locations around the world. The company is looking to expand through multi-unit franchise development. The business also offers a variety of nontraditional models and location options, including those at airports, colleges, hotels, and grocery stores. It provides training, development, design, operations, marketing, and logistical support. Teapioca Lounge Originally established, Teapioca Lounge offers traditional and specialty teas along with other beverage options. The brand aims to mix both East and West tea traditions in quick service environments. The company is known for product quality, innovative drinks, and trendy settings. The franchise provides training and grand opening assistance for franchisees. Dobra Tea Founded in 1992 in Prague, Czech Republic, Dobra Tea aims to spread authentic tea culture from around the world. The company already has several locations throughout the U.S. and more in other parts of the world. Dobra’s team helps franchisees with training, publicity, and more. They specifically look for franchisees who love tea and tea culture. The company doesn’t list any franchise fees publicly. TSUJIRI TSUJIRI is a global tea brand that specializes in Japanese tea culture. The company even offers specialty products like matcha. TSUJIRI doesn’t currently have any locations in the U.S. However, there are a few in Canada. The company is open to expansion in new markets. Inquire about specific costs if you’re interested in bringing this franchise to a new customer base. Sweetwaters Sweetwaters is a franchise coffee and tea house. If you’re a tea lover, you’ll probably appreciate the variety of classic and premium teas, along with the tea boxes that are available for sale. Franchisees can enjoy a comprehensive training program along with marketing and operations support. Spice Merchants With stores in several states throughout the U.S., Spice Merchants is a retail business that offers spices, teas, and other specialty food items. The company offers help with training, inventory, and store setup. You don’t need a culinary or tea background to get started. Presotea Presotea specializes in espresso-style tea. The company has more than 370 locations in countries around the world. While the brand isn’t especially active in the United States, it is looking for new expansion opportunities. Presotea offers training and consultation along with management counseling and other services for franchisees. The Spice & Tea Exchange The Spice & Tea Exchange is a retail business with franchise opportunities available. There are already franchise locations set up throughout the United States. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy some brand recognition depending on the market you choose. The company encourages new franchisees to learn from current business owners. It also offers a training program called Spice UniversiTEA. Jamba Juice Jamba Juice is a well-known chain, though not particularly famous for tea. However, it does offer a variety of tea products including Talbott Teas. Other products include smoothies, juice, and other healthy beverage options. The company provides training, operations support, and access to high-quality vendors. The brand looks for entrepreneurial individuals. Those with experience in food service or retail, as well as those interested in opening multiple locations, are preferred. Tea Shop Tea Shop is a tea franchise based in Spain. However, the company is expanding into new markets like Brazil and Italy as well. There’s no word on whether the company plans to expand into the U.S. market, but interested franchisees may want to keep this brand on their radar. The company provides individualized information about the business model and operations throughout each step of the franchising process. Hiccups Restaurant & Tea House Hiccups offers an Asian Fusion restaurant mixed with a trendy tea house. The brand is known for specialty drinks, fresh ingredients, and welcoming environments. Demmers Teahaus Demmers Teahaus offers a wide array of specialty teas in a traditional store environment. Most of the company’s locations are currently in Europe and Asia. The brand looks for individuals who are passionate about tea and have business experience. The company provides assistance with training, marketing, and logistics. Demmers doesn’t make franchising costs available. Interested franchisees must inquire directly to get more information. i-Tea i-Tea offers specialty drinks in a quick-service environment. Most of its current locations are in California. However, the brand is open to expanding to new markets as well. The stores also provide some food items. Fees and other expenses vary by location, and the company hasn’t published that information. As a result, those interested in becoming franchisees must contact the company for more information. Camellia’s Tea House Camellia’s Tea House offers tastings and specialty teas in traditional store and tea house environments. The company is heavily involved in traditional tea culture in the U.K. However, they now sell products in other countries as well. The company is still relatively small. They don’t publish information about costs and fees, but an inquiry might result in more information. Creating a Unique Tea Experience When you venture into the world of tea franchises, it’s not just about the product; it’s about the experience you offer to your customers. To stand out in a competitive market, consider these strategies to create a unique and memorable tea experience: Tea Tastings: Organize regular tea tastings that allow customers to discover various tea varieties while learning about their origins and health benefits. Custom Blends: Enable customers to craft their own unique tea blends, enhancing the personal aspect of their tea-drinking experience. Tea Workshops: Host workshops focused on tea preparation, brewing methods, and the skill of pairing tea with various foods. Local Artisan Collaborations: Collaborate with local artisans to provide distinctive tea-related products, including handcrafted tea accessories and artisanal treats that enhance your tea offerings. Seasonal Menus: Introduce seasonal tea menus that feature special blends and flavors inspired by the time of year, creating anticipation and excitement among customers. Interactive Tea Bar: Set up an interactive tea bar where customers can watch the tea-making process, from steeping to serving, enhancing transparency and engagement. Tea and Wellness: Emphasize the health benefits of tea by providing wellness-oriented options, including herbal blends that are recognized for their positive effects on well-being. Tea Subscription Services: Launch a tea subscription service that delivers curated tea experiences to customers’ doorsteps, allowing them to explore new flavors regularly. Cultural Events: Organize cultural events and tea ceremonies that celebrate tea cultures from around the globe, allowing customers to experience the rich traditions associated with tea. StrategyDescription Tea TastingsHost regular tea tastings to explore different tea varieties and educate customers on origins and health benefits. Custom BlendsAllow customers to create custom tea blends, adding a personal touch to their tea experience. Tea WorkshopsOrganize workshops on tea preparation, brewing techniques, and pairing tea with food. Local Artisan CollaborationsPartner with local artisans to offer unique tea-related products and artisanal treats. Seasonal MenusIntroduce seasonal tea menus with special blends and flavors inspired by the time of year. Interactive Tea BarSet up an interactive tea bar where customers can observe the tea-making process for transparency. Tea and WellnessHighlight wellness aspects by offering health-focused teas, such as herbal blends. Tea Subscription ServicesLaunch a tea subscription service for curated tea experiences delivered to customers' doorsteps. Cultural EventsCelebrate global tea cultures with cultural events and tea ceremonies to immerse customers. How Profitable is a Tea Franchise? A tea franchise can be profitable under the right circumstances. However, many are not profitable, at least in the first few years. Generally, they do not carry expensive products. Overhead for traditional store environments can be high. As a result, choosing a franchise with a diversified product offering and low operating expenses can make these businesses more profitable. What is the Cost of Opening a Tea Franchise? A franchise can cost between $50,000 and $400,000 to open. Most fall somewhere between $150,000 and $250.,000. Costs depend on the business model you choose. For example, a traditional store may cost more than a small cart or other non-traditional setups. What is the Best Tea Franchise to Own? The best tea franchise depends on what you’re looking for. If you love traditional tea, a business like the Spice & Tea Exchange or The Teahouse may be of interest. Those looking for brand recognition may opt for a business that offers other options like Jamba Juice or The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Photo via Shutterstock This article, "Tea Franchises to Consider" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Choosing the right paid media channels is key to B2B advertising success. This guide covers the best PPC platforms – Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft, and more – plus expert tactics to reach decision-makers and drive results. 1. Google Search Google is an effective way to reach B2B decision-makers when they are actively searching. But how do you ensure you’re reaching someone truly looking for a food supplier for their restaurant and not just Joe Schmoe craving a steak dinner? The key is strategic targeting. Make sure to: Use keyword lists wisely Add negative keywords like “home” or “residential” to filter out non-B2B searches. If someone searches for “steaks” without a qualifier like “supplier” or “commercial,” layer audience segments to refine targeting. Leverage audience segments Target based on: Industry. Company size. Users in-market for jobs in specific industries. Example: A software company selling to Fortune 500 technology firms can target users searching for software-related keywords who also: Work at large companies (10,000+ employees). Are in the technology industry. Qualify leads with offline conversion imports Connect Google Ads to CRMs like Salesforce and HubSpot using GCLID tracking. Capture lead information and import it back into Google Ads to identify which campaigns and keywords drive sales-qualified leads (SQLs) and revenue. By refining keyword strategies, layering audience segments, and tracking conversions, you can ensure your Google Search campaigns effectively target B2B decision-makers. Dig deeper: 2025 predictions for top B2B paid media channels 2. Microsoft Search Microsoft may have a smaller audience than Google, but it offers valuable advantages, especially for B2B advertisers: Lower cost-per-click (CPC) Microsoft CPCs are up to 30% cheaper than Google, making it a cost-effective option for limited budgets. LinkedIn audience targeting Since LinkedIn is owned by Microsoft, you can target and collect data on: Company. Job function. Industry. This is particularly useful for B2B advertisers looking to reach specific companies or job roles. Example: A B2B HVAC company can target users searching for “commercial HVAC service” who also work at nationwide companies like Allstate or Geico. With lower costs and LinkedIn’s robust targeting, Microsoft Search can be a powerful addition to a B2B paid media strategy. 3. LinkedIn LinkedIn has the largest audience of B2B decision-makers, making it an essential platform for B2B advertising. It offers robust targeting options, including job function, member skills, company, and job title, allowing you to reach the right professionals with precision. Beyond brand awareness, LinkedIn is highly effective for lead generation and conversions: Lead generation ads: Capture contact information directly in the feed. Document ads: Offer a teaser (one or two pages) of downloadable content and require users to submit their information to access the full version. LinkedIn pixel: Track website interactions to retarget engaged users. Contact and company list targeting: One of the most efficient ways to drive low-cost, high-quality leads (CPLs). With its advanced targeting and multiple ad formats, LinkedIn provides endless opportunities to connect with key B2B decision-makers. Dig deeper: How to combine Google Ads and LinkedIn Ads for comprehensive B2B campaigns Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. 4. Reddit Reddit might not seem like an obvious choice for B2B advertising, but the numbers tell a different story. Reddit has the second-largest audience of B2B decision-makers behind only LinkedIn, according to Reddit. Even more surprising, 43% of B2B decision-makers aren’t on LinkedIn, making Reddit one of the few platforms where you can reach them. Can you capture leads on Reddit? Yes! Reddit recently introduced lead generation ads, allowing businesses to collect lead information without users ever leaving the platform. Major brands have already seen success: Hootsuite achieved 80% lower cost per signup than their benchmark and found Reddit effective for reaching engaged prospects. Adobe Creative Cloud achieved a threefold increase in conversion rate and 100% higher CTR, thanks to Reddit’s strong community engagement compared to other platforms. With its unique audience and new ad capabilities, Reddit is worth considering for B2B campaigns. Don’t knock it until you try it! Dig deeper: 5 must-know Reddit Ads tactics for B2B marketers 5. Meta Meta might not be the first platform that comes to mind for B2B advertising, but it reaches a massive audience – including business and IT decision-makers. Up to 2.9 billion people use Meta’s services daily per a recent earnings call, making it a valuable channel for B2B marketers. To effectively reach the right audience, Meta allows targeting based on: Company (where users work). Job role. Industry. Additional strategies for B2B success on Meta: Use first-party data: Upload customer lists and create lookalike audiences to expand your reach. Leverage lead generation ads: Capture user information directly in the feed, similar to LinkedIn. Track lead quality: Implement a system to filter out junk leads and ensure ad spend goes toward high-value prospects. With the right targeting and tracking in place, Meta can be a powerful tool for B2B advertising. Dig deeper: B2B audience targeting: Meta Ads as an alternative to LinkedIn 6. Programmatic Programmatic advertising is like Google Display on steroids, allowing you to place ads strategically across multiple digital channels, including: Over-the-top (OTT) and connected TV (CTV). Display, video, and search. Social, native, and streaming audio. Out-of-home (OOH), gaming, and live sports. To maximize conversions, focus on: Strong creative and engaging landing pages. Implementing a pixel to track website interactions. You can also test out an account-based marketing (ABM) tactic, which concentrates on targeting a set of specific accounts within a given B2B market. Remember, while any single channel can be effective, using multiple advertising channels in a full-funnel strategy is the best way to drive incremental lift and reach B2B decision-makers at every stage of their journey. Dig deeper: How to improve PPC lead quality for B2B campaigns View the full article

Current and retired federal employees say Treasury officials granted Elon Musk improper access to federal financial records, violating privacy laws. View the full article

Amid higher costs, longer wait times, and waning sales, Starbucks is ready for a brand refresh. The company’s new CEO, Brian Niccol joins Rapid Response to reveal how Starbucks plans to go back to its roots — prioritizing human connection and a local coffeehouse feel in the hopes of restoring the brand’s position in U.S. culture. Also, Niccol gives an inside look at the company’s subtle name change, which aligns with this new strategy. This is an abridged transcript of an interview from Rapid Response, hosted by the former editor-in-chief of Fast Company Bob Safian. From the team behind the Masters of Scale podcast, Rapid Response features candid conversations with today’s top business leaders navigating real-time challenges. Subscribe to Rapid Response wherever you get your podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode. You’ve called your strategy ‘Back to Starbucks,’ and it’s included the return of a condiment station, the return of handwritten names on cups. It can sound like a lot of small details. Is that all that’s required—tuning the details? Look, I mean, we are in the retail business. We’re in the customer service business, and anybody that’s been involved with that knows the details do matter. And the reason why the details you just mentioned really matter for Starbucks is, frankly, those details are our point of difference. It’s how we get to another level of connection. It’s also how we kind of create a little bit of the magic, right? What turns the coffee and that craft beverage into something really special is the moment that potentially you have in our store, the community of the store, the moment you might have with our barista, or just the moment where you grab your cup and unexpectedly there’s a little smiley face on your cup. And it just changes the entire attitude of the customer. Obviously, you have to have a great product, you have to have a great experience, but if you have those little moments of connection, it just adds so much more. Well, it’s always interesting how, in food-related businesses, the product has to be satisfying, but so much of it is about the experience, about getting the experience to feel memorable and satisfying. Yeah, that’s right. And look, I think one of the things that veered Starbucks a little bit off was the whole mobile ordering, the COVID situation. I think it just really took a lot of the soul out of what this business is all about. And I’m sure, Bob, like me, you remember when the first Starbucks came to the neighborhood, and it was a moment for the neighborhood, right? I was living in Cincinnati, Ohio. I was working at Procter & Gamble at the time, and we were like, what a great spot. I really loved it when they were like, all right, Brian, grande Americano with an extra shot. And I’m like, yeah, all right, that’s me. I’m in. So, I think just what happened with mobile ordering is it kind of chipped away at a little bit of that soul and that connection because we went to labels and we stopped writing on the cups and we started looking at how you can remove seconds from the proposition as opposed to how you maintain the experience, the connection, and the integrity of what goes even beyond a great cup of coffee. There is this kind of impression that there was an earlier Starbucks heyday, but it’s not like the stock is that far from its all-time high. So, when you think of the life cycle of the company, what phase do you feel like it’s in? Or do you see phases ahead? Right now, the phase we’re in is we need to get things turned around, at least in the U.S. business. We need to get what I would call the soul of the business back, this connection back, and the partner experience back so that the customer feels the brand again, okay? And I think when we get that back, there’s tremendous growth ahead of us because, frankly, the reality is so many things isolate you as opposed to bringing you together. And I think people want to get out of the loneliness phase and get back to the connection phase. I’ve had the opportunity to travel around the world, and it’s true everywhere I’ve been, whether it was Italy, which was a little bit surreal because the whole Starbucks original idea came from Howard visiting Italy. Here I am back in Milan, seeing people walk around with Starbucks cups. And it just demonstrates this is one of those human truths that just connects people all around the world, connecting over a cup of coffee or connecting with your barista. It’s just a human truth. You mentioned Howard Schultz, the founder and multiple-time CEO there. Do you talk with him about what you’re doing, or are you kind of on your own? Howard’s been great. I think I’m fortunate that you still have a founder who can share the history of how Starbucks went from one store in Seattle to the iconic global brand it is. He doesn’t want to run the company. He doesn’t want to be involved in the day-to-day. He wants you to do that. But he’s available for me to inquire about his thinking when you introduced food into the cafe and how it competed with coffee, and ‘what was your thinking when we went from hot to cold,’ and it’s great to get that insight. During Starbucks’ life, there’s been an increasing proliferation of neighborhood coffeehouses. How much do you think about these hyper-local cafes as your competition? I was watching your new commercial, “That’s not my name.” And it ends with a tweaked name for you guys, a Starbucks Coffee Company, which sounds a little more local. Is that what you’re trying to signify? The reality is, Starbucks started as a coffee company, and at the heart, that’s what we are. Again, I went back and did a little history lesson, and when Starbucks first started, it had a very simple statement to be the purveyor of the finest coffee in the world. And we still believe that in a really big way. So I think it’s important to make that statement that we are the Starbucks Coffee Company. And what I want people to understand is we are so committed to coffee quality that we apply that same commitment of quality and craft to the food we do, the teas we might provide, but first and foremost, we’re a coffee company. And I think it’s important for people to be reintroduced to Starbucks from that point of view because I think we’ve forgotten to tell people that over the last, let’s call it last decade. I mean, it sounds like you need to focus more. Now you need to narrow down a little bit what you’re doing, get a little more streamlined. And then maybe once that is aligned, you could start adding things back again or adding new things. We’re going to continue to be an innovative company, but you’re best served to innovate when your core is strong. If you are innovating to try and compensate for a weak core, usually good things don’t happen. You end up just drifting. And my point is let’s have a strong, healthy core, and then we can innovate from there. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Beats Studio Buds + are currently down to $119.99 (from $169.95), their lowest price to date, according to price comparison tools (in fact, all Beats headphones and speakers are seeing Black Friday and Prime Day equivalent discounts right now). Beats Studio Buds + $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $169.95 Save $49.96 Get Deal Get Deal $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $169.95 Save $49.96 Available in black/gold, cosmic silver, and a transparent finish, these earbuds come with four pairs of silicone ear tips (XS, S, M, L) for a customizable fit. Pairing is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, with Apple users getting one-touch pairing across iCloud devices, plus Handoff support for quick audio transfers. For Android users, Google Fast Pair syncs them instantly with any linked Google account. Each earbud packs three microphones to enhance voice clarity, block noise with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and let in ambient sound with Transparency mode. Custom two-layer dynamic drivers power the audio, delivering a bass-heavy, crisp sound that remains distortion-free even at max volume. However, there’s no adjustable EQ, so you'll have to rely on iOS presets (if you use an Apple device) or the earbuds' default tuning. ANC performance of these earbuds is solid for the price, effectively cutting out low-frequency hums like airplane noise and reducing mid-range background chatter. Transparency mode is equally strong, making external sounds feel natural. Additionally, the on-ear button controls on the Studio Buds + are fairly straightforward, and according to this PCMag review, they're responsive without being overly sensitive, reducing accidental presses. For Apple users, the Studio Buds + integrate seamlessly with iOS, including support for Find My, which helps locate lost earbuds. That said, it only shows the last place your case (with the buds inside) was connected. If the buds were removed and the case was left sitting there, the location of the buds wouldn’t update. Android users get a solid experience as well, but they miss out on hands-free Siri and deeper system-level controls. These earbuds come with an IPX4 rating, meaning they can handle sweat and light splashes but they’re not built for heavy water exposure—if waterproofing is high on your must-have list, the JBL Reflect Aero ($99.95, down from $149.95) has a stronger IP68 rating and could be a better fit. View the full article