ResidentialBusiness

Federal officials on Thursday approved a new type of pain pill designed to eliminate the risks of addiction and overdose associated with opioid medications like Vicodin and OxyContin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it approved Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ Journavx for short-term pain that often follows surgery or injuries. It’s the first new pharmaceutical approach to treating pain in more than 20 years, offering an alternative to both opioids and over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. But the medication’s modest effectiveness and lengthy development process underscore the challenges of finding new ways to manage pain. Studies in more than 870 patients with acute pain due to foot and abdominal surgeries showed Vertex’s drug provided more relief than a dummy pill but didn’t outperform a common opioid-acetaminophen combination pill. “It’s not a slam dunk on effectiveness,” said Michael Schuh of the Mayo Clinic, a pharmacist and pain medicine expert who was not involved in the research. “But it is a slam dunk in that it’s a very different pathway and mechanism of action. So, I think that shows a lot promise.” The new drug will carry a list price of $15.50 per pill, making it many times more expensive than comparable opioids, which are often available as generics for $1 or less. Vertex began researching the drug in the 2000s, when overdoses were rocketing upward, principally driven by mass prescribing of opioid painkillers for common ailments like arthritis and back pain. Prescriptions have fallen sharply in the past decade and the current wave of the opioid epidemic is mainly due to illicit fentanyl, not pharmaceutical medicines. Opioids reduce pain by binding to receptors in the brain that receive nerve signals from different parts of the body. Those chemical interactions also give rise to opioids’ addictive effects. Vertex’s drug works differently, blocking proteins that trigger pain signals that are later sent to the brain. “In trying to develop medicines that don’t have the addictive risks of opioid medicines, a key factor is working to block pain signaling before it gets to the brain,” Vertex’s Dr. David Altshuler, told the Associated Press last year. Commonly reported side effects with the drug were nausea, constipation, itching, rash, and headache. “The new medication has side effect profiles that are inherently, not only different, but don’t involve the risk of substance abuse and other key side effects associated with opioids,” said Dr. Charles Argoff of the Albany Medical Center, who consulted for Vertex on the drug’s development. The initial concept to focus on pain-signaling proteins came out of research involving people with a rare hereditary condition that causes insensitivity to pain. Vertex has attracted interest from Wall Street for its ambitious drug pipeline that involves winning FDA approval for multiple drugs across several forms of chronic pain, which generally represents a bigger financial opportunity than acute pain. But the Boston drugmaker’s share price plummeted in December when Vertex reported disappointing mid-stage results in a study of patients with chronic nerve pain affecting the lower back and legs. The drug didn’t perform significantly better than placebo, the research found. “We believe the data reflect a near worst-case scenario for this key pipeline program,” biotechnology analyst Brian Abrahams said in a research note to investors, adding that the results jeopardized estimates that Vertex’s pipeline could be worth billions across multiple forms of pain. Still, Vertex executives said they plan to move forward with a new, late-stage study of the drug, theorizing that a different trial design could yield better results and pave the way for FDA approval in chronic pain. AP video journalist Mary Conlon contributed to this story from New York. The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. —Matthew Perrone, AP Health Writer View the full article

If you enjoy snacking on chocolate-covered pretzels, you’ll want to make sure you don’t have a specific variety of the tasty snacks from Fresh Direct in your possession. That’s because the chocolate-covered pretzels in question contain an undeclared milk allergen that could cause life-threatening health consequences in some people, up to and including death. Here’s what you need to know about the recall. What’s happened? Food distributor United Natural Trading LLC of Edison, New Jersey, has announced a recall of one of its Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Covered Pretzels products after it was found to contain an undeclared milk allergen. As a result, the company decided to issue a voluntary recall. What product is being recalled? The voluntary recall only includes one product, according to the recall notice posted on the website of the Food And Drug Administration (FDA). The details of the product involved in the recall, which has an undeclared milk allergen, are as follows: Description: Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Covered Pretzels Lot Number: 24353 Best By Date: 06/30/2025 UPC#: 811102026276 Images of the product can be found here. Where was the recalled product sold? According to the notice on the FDA’s website, the above product was sold online “via a third-party vendor site.” The products were shipped to Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. What is a milk allergen? A food allergen is a type of food that causes an adverse reaction in the person who consumes it. According to the FDA, there are nine major food allergens. The first one the FDA lists is the milk allergen, which is the reason for this recall. Milk allergens can cause a number of uncomfortable reactions in the body as well as lead to an acute reaction called anaphylaxis, which can be deadly. What are the symptoms of a milk allergy? Milk allergy symptoms are wide-ranging and can differ based on the individual, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms can present within a few minutes to a few hours of consuming the milk product. Immediate symptoms usually include: Hives Wheezing Itching or tingling feeling around the lips or mouth Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat Coughing or shortness of breath Vomiting The Mayo Clinic says the following symptoms may take more time to appear: Loose stools or diarrhea, which may contain blood Abdominal cramps Runny nose Watery eyes Colic, in babies However, the greatest threat from a milk allergen comes from its ability to cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that can lead to the person being unable to breathe. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment as it can lead to death. The Mayo Clinic says signs of anaphylaxis include: Constriction of airways, including a swollen throat that makes it difficult to breathe Facial flushing Itching Shock, with a marked drop in blood pressure What do I do if I have the recalled Fresh Direct pretzels? Do not consume them. Instead, dispose of them. According to the FDA notice, consumers can also retain the packaging for the recalled pretzels and its online receipt or other proof of purchase so they may receive a refund. Consumers can contact United Natural Trading LLC for more information at 732-650-9905 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST, Monday to Friday. View the full article

Unmasking the authenticity crisis in social media: Explore the impact of fake content and misused AI on genuine connections. The post The Rise Of Authenticity: Why Genuine Connections Will Drive Social Media In 2025 appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. I've scoured the February releases on Amazon's Prime platform to find the best new and new-to-streaming movies and shows. This month sees the premiere of Clean Slate, a series created by Norman Lear. There's also a third season of Reacher to enjoy, and an Amazon retelling of the story of King David on tap. So February is pretty eclectic over on Prime. Clean Slate This Amazon original series was dreamed up by the late, great Norman Lear, a man who was known for spinning comedy gold from hot-button social issues with grace. Clean Slate stars actress and trans activist Laverne Cox as Desiree, who returns to her hometown after decades of living in the city. She's been gone for so long, her father, played by George Wallace, doesn't recognize her, mainly because she used to be his son. Starts streaming February 6. Reacher, season 3 Universally praised action series Reacher returns for a third season. Based on Lee Child’s seventh Reacher novel, Persuader, season 3 sees former military operative Jack Reacher going undercover for the DEA in New England and facing off against a character played by Olivier Ritchers, the seven-foot bodybuilder called “the Dutch Giant" in muscle-show circles, and Zachary Beck, played by Anthony Michael Hall, the six-foot tall American actor called "The Geek" in 16 Candles. Starts streaming February 20. House of David No matter what you think of this "God" person, the Bible contains a lot of great stories, including that of David, who, like Madonna, needs no last name. This faith-based series begins with the fall of King Saul and the anointing of his successor, David, a teenage outcast who seems to have no business being king of anything. But David embarks on a personal journey of discovery and eventually (spoiler alert) becomes the greatest king of Israel. God, as they say, works in mysterious ways. Starts streaming February 27. Invincible, season 3 Both critics and fans love superhero cartoon-for-adults Invincible; the rotten tomato scores for season 1 are 98% and 93% respectively, and one critic called it "the Game of Thrones of the Superhero genre." If you're unfamiliar, Invincible is based on Robert Kirkman’s comic and tells the story of 17-year-old Mark Grayson. Mark is just like any teenager, except his dad is Omni-Man, and he's developing super powers. Season 3 sees Mark meeting up with tons of villains, including Powerplex, voiced by Aaron Paul, The Elephant, voiced by John DiMaggio, and the merciless leader of The Order, Mr. Liu, voiced by Tzi Ma. Starts streaming February 6. My Fault: London My Fault: London is a British romantic drama based on the novel Culpa mía by Mercedes Ron. It tells the story of Noah, played by Asha Banks, whose mother marries a rich British man and drags her daughter from Florida to London (oh no!). Despite the tony Notting Hill address, things in the UK don't go great for Noah, especially when she meets Nick, played by Matthew Broome, her mother’s new husband’s privileged and snobby son. But, surprisingly, love blooms between the the extremely attractive couple, who then must navigate a chaotic life of partying in Ibiza and driving around in cars worth a million dollars each. Starts streaming February 13. Last month's picksYou're Cordially Invited Comedic icons Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon star in a domestic comedy in which bridal parties battle for supremacy. A terrible planner booked both Ferrell's daughter's wedding and Witherspoon's sister's weddings for the same time and place. Instead of cooperating, the families go head-to-head and try to destroy each other. You're Cordially invited was directed by Nick Stoller (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Neighbors), so you're in good hands if you like solid comedy from solid comedy professionals. Starts streaming January 30. On Call Police procedural series have been a staple of television since Dragnet premiered in 1951 for good reason: What's more dramatic than good guys chasing bad guys? On Call makes a classic cop show set-up (a veteran Long Beach, Calif. police officer teams up with an idealistic, wet-behind-the-ears rookie) more visceral and immediate by presenting the action through footage shot on dashcams, bodycams, smartphones, and security cameras. Joe Friday probably wouldn't approve of On Call's vérité style, but it's an interesting new wrinkle in the genre. Starts streaming January 9. Unstoppable Jennifer Lopez anchors this inspiring story based on the real life of one-legged wrestler Anthony Robles, played by Jharrel Jerome. In Unstoppable, Lopez plays Anthony's mother Judy, one of those devoted movie moms who will not let her son give up on his dream of becoming a college wrestling champion, no matter how many sacrifices she has to make. Man, isn't the human spirit something? Starts streaming January 16. Harlem, season 3In season 3 of Harlem, the drama continues as four best friends in the city navigate career struggles, motherhood, singlehood, sisterhood, and more. Cast members Meagan Good, Grace Byers, Jerrie Johnson, and Shoniqua Shandai return, but there are some new faces too, including Kofi Siriboe who plays Seth, a handsome MLB player who catches one of the ladies’ attention. Starts streaming January 23. The Rig The Rig has a perfect set up for a horror-thriller: A mysterious fog rolls over an offshore oil rig, cutting off all communication. Paranoia, claustrophobia, and terror rise and the tension becomes unbearable. Then the crew learns that the fog besetting the oil rig leads to something unnatural and unspeakable, forcing desperate men to work together to survive. Starts streaming January 2. NFL Wildcard GameFor the first time ever, an NFL playoff game will not be available on broadcast television, nor will be available to subscribers to the NFL package sold on YouTube TV. I'd like to tell you who is playing and when the game will be played, but that information won't be locked in until January 5, so the best I can do is tell you that the game will be called by Al Michaels and analyst Kirk Herbstreit, and point out that Amazon's optional "alternative stream" of the game (all the action is shown from an overhead camera) can be kind of cool if you're a football nerd who wants to watch the whole play instead of just the ball carrier. Starts streaming January 11 or 12. View the full article

Event organizers are in high demand as more and more people want to celebrate life’s special moments. The planning process for an event can be a challenge, but with careful organization, a good event planning checklist, and a few key event planning tips, you can pull off a spectacular event that your guests will never forget. Amazing Event Planning Tips There’s a lot that goes into event planning. Anything from choosing the right space to arranging food and beverages needs to be considered. Additionally, everything needs to go off without a hitch if your event is to be a success. That being said, you can get caught up in the fine details and stress yourself out if you’re not careful, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of amazing event-planning tips that will help take your event-planning skills to the next level. Learn About Event Management If you want to know how to start an event planning business, there are plenty of excellent resources out there. Event management is a specific field of study that can teach you the ins and outs of planning an event. It covers topics such as venue selection, logistics, marketing, budgeting, and more. If you’re serious about becoming an event planner, consider pursuing a degree in event management or even taking some online courses to give yourself a head start. There are also specialized certification programs you can pursue. There are plenty of skills you can learn from programs like these. For example, you’re going to be dealing with budgeting throughout your career as an event planner, and learning about finance is important for any business owner. Additionally, it’s helpful to know how to market an event so that more people will attend. Learning about marketing is also a good idea if you want to start your own event-planning business. There are many other courses available, including those focused on catering and hospitality. These courses will enhance your overall understanding of the industry and teach you how to effectively work with various types of clients. Gaining knowledge in event management is pivotal for any event planner looking to elevate their skills and services. Beyond formal education and certification, engaging in continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends can significantly enhance your event-planning prowess. Consider the following actions to deepen your event management knowledge: Join Professional Associations: Becoming a member of professional event planning associations such as the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) or the International Live Events Association (ILEA) can provide access to exclusive resources, webinars, and networking opportunities. Attend Industry Conferences: Regular attendance at industry conferences not only offers learning opportunities from seasoned professionals but also keeps you updated on the latest event technologies, trends, and best practices. Subscribe to Event Planning Publications: Keep your knowledge current by subscribing to leading event planning magazines and online publications. These resources are treasure troves of case studies, expert advice, and innovative ideas. Network with Peers: Building a strong network with fellow event planners can lead to knowledge exchange and collaboration opportunities. Peer discussions often reveal practical solutions to common challenges and creative ideas for event planning. No matter what type of education or training you pursue, always remember that experience is the best teacher. Try to get as much hands-on experience as possible by planning small events for your family and friends or volunteering with a local charity. Have a Comprehensive Event Plan Having a detailed event plan is essential when organizing any event. Think of it as your event’s blueprint, covering everything from your main objectives to all the small details that will make your event unique. Not only does it help you stay organized and focused, but it also gives a clear picture to everyone involved. The primary benefit of a good plan is that it keeps things on track. When there’s a lot to juggle, having a checklist can save time and reduce stress. Moreover, when you’re working with a team, this plan ensures everyone knows their role and what’s expected of them. For the organization or group you’re serving, your plan shows your preparation and professionalism. It provides a clear overview of what they can expect from the event and allows for feedback or adjustments as needed. In short, a comprehensive event plan is your guide to ensuring a successful event that meets everyone’s expectations. Make sure to include the following in your event plan: Vision and objectives Event Timeline Venue information Guestlist including contact information Menu and catering details Audio/visual requirements Transportation and parking information To make your event plan truly comprehensive, incorporate the following elements: Risk Management Plan: Identify potential risks that could impact your event, such as weather conditions, security concerns, or vendor failures. Develop strategies to mitigate these risks and include emergency response plans. Sustainability Practices: Describe the sustainable practices your event will implement, including reducing waste, opting for digital materials instead of physical ones, and choosing eco-friendly vendors. These actions not only support the environment but also improve your brand’s reputation. Inclusive Practices: Ensure your event is accessible and welcoming to all attendees by incorporating inclusive practices. This includes considering physical accessibility, providing diverse food options, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities. Technology Integration Plan: Detail how technology will be used to enhance the event experience. This might involve event apps, social media engagement strategies, live streaming options, and digital registration processes. Post-Event Evaluation Plan: Define how you will evaluate the success of your event. Include methods for collecting attendee feedback, measuring engagement levels, and assessing the achievement of your event objectives. If you’re a new event planner, look online or in your local library for an example of what an event plan should contain and how it should be formatted. Keep your own copy of this document so you can use it as a template when planning events for others. Additionally, there are many templates available online. You should also have a promotional plan that outlines how you will market your event. The event program is also a critical document that should be included in your event plan. This document will list the order of events and who is participating in each one. In addition, the event schedule should include the times of key events and who is responsible for each task. An event checklist is also an essential part of your event plan. This is a list of things you need to do before, during, and after the event. Make sure that your checklist includes tasks such as sending out invitations two months in advance (at least), negotiating contracts with vendors six weeks in advance (at least), confirming all details one month in advance (one week if possible), and reviewing all event details two weeks in advance (one day if possible). Just as you do with your event planner, put your checklist into a template after you’ve created it. Additionally, before you start planning an event, think about who your target audience is. This will help you decide on the type of venue, menu, entertainment and more. For example, a corporate event might require more formal attire than a birthday party would. Keep in mind that your event plan is not set in stone and can be amended as needed. The more comprehensive you are, the easier it will be to plan your next event. Your target audience will also appreciate having all of this information in one place. Choose Your Event Space Carefully When planning the perfect venue, choosing your event space is one of the most important decisions you will make. If it’s a corporate function, then location and size are critical, but if it’s a wedding or other personal event, things such as ambiance might be more important than location. Start by making a list of the features you need for each type of event in order to get an idea of what you’re looking for. Then, make a list of potential event spaces in your area and set up appointments to visit them. When you meet with the venue manager, bring along your list of requirements as well as a few ideas on how you might use their space if they do not have any event packages. Don’t forget to ask if they have a preferred list of vendors and what their policies are regarding alcohol, decorations, and other potential event details. Try not to contract with the venue until after you know how many people will be attending your event since this might affect your choice of location. Also, find out if there are technology perks like Wi-Fi and on-site IT at the venue location, as they can simplify your planning and help guests connect. Put Effort into Event Branding and Design Your event branding and design will be the first thing people see when they arrive at your event. It’s also something that you can use to help promote your event through social media, print materials, or even on a website. When you’re ready to take care of these important details, start by creating an overall theme for your event. This might be something as simple as using the same color scheme throughout all of your branding materials, or it could be a more specific theme, such as a vintage circus for a carnival-themed event. Once you have your theme in place, start designing logos, fonts and other graphics that will help to communicate your brand. If you’re not a designer, hire someone to do this for you. A professional will be able to create something that is cohesive and visually appealing. Next, start designing your event branding materials, including invitations, gift bags, and promotional items such as pens or lanyards with your logo on them. If you have the budget for it, consider hiring an event designer to help you with these details so that they are cohesive and professional-looking. When designing your event’s website, choose a theme that matches or complements your other branding materials. You can also use the same colors for each page of your site as well as include graphics from previous events on this new one if applicable. Besides the event design, you want to have an event name. The name of the event should be unique, but it also needs to fit your brand’s image. For example, if you’re hosting a Halloween party at a nightclub called “Club Purple”, then calling it something like “Purple Party” would work well because both names are related to each other and they match in color scheme as well. Don’t forget to create signage for your event that will help direct people where to go. This could be something as simple as a large banner at the entrance or directional signs throughout the venue. Creating a cohesive design for your event is an important way to make a good first impression and helps promote your event long before it actually takes place. Work Out an Event Budget Before you start planning your event, it’s important to have a realistic idea of how much money you’re willing to spend. This includes the cost of the venue, catering, decorations, entertainment and any other miscellaneous expenses that might come up. If you’re not sure where to start, try using a worksheet to help estimate the cost of your event. Once you have a ballpark number, start finding ways to reduce the cost so that you stay within your budget. One way to save money is by doing some of the work yourself, such as designing and printing invitations, creating signage, or making centerpieces. You can also find affordable catering options or look for discounts on decorations and supplies from local stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby. If you’re working within a budget, it’s also important to consider the cost of staff for your event. While you might not be able to hire full-time employees, there are many freelance companies that offer part-time workers at an hourly rate which is much more affordable when compared to a salary. When working out your event budget, consider the following detailed steps and tips: Break Down Categories: List every possible expense category, including venue, food and beverages, entertainment, decor, technology, marketing, and unexpected costs. This granularity helps in not overlooking any potential expenses. Research and Compare Quotes: For each category, obtain multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. This can significantly impact your overall budget and possibly allow for upgrades in other areas. Monitor All Expenses: Use budget tracking tools or software to keep an eye on your expenses as they occur. This allows you to make quick adjustments if some costs exceed your expectations. Include Contingency Funds: A common best practice is to allocate 5-10% of your total budget to a contingency fund. This fund is crucial for covering unforeseen expenses without derailing your event plans. Evaluate ROI for Corporate Events: For business-related events, outline how you will measure the return on investment (ROI). This could involve lead generation, sales, or brand exposure metrics, helping to justify the event’s cost. By creating a budget and sticking to it, you can avoid any last-minute surprises that might affect the overall success of your event. Design a Strong Marketing Plan When you’re planning an event, it’s important to create a strong marketing strategy in order to get the word out about your event and drive attendance. The first step is choosing which platform(s) will be most effective for reaching your target audience. For example, if you’re hosting a networking mixer at a local restaurant, then Facebook might be your best bet because most people who use social media are Millennials and Gen Xers, which means that’s where their attention is focused. If you decide to host an outdoor concert, promoting it through Instagram stories would be more effective, as they are mobile-friendly and visually appealing. Once you’ve decided which platform(s) to use, it’s time to start creating content. This should include a mix of teaser images or videos, quotes from speakers or attendees, and information about the event, such as the date, time, and location. You can also create a custom hashtag for people to use when they post about your event so that it’s easy for others to find it on social media. Media relations are also an important part of marketing an event. This includes reaching out to local publications and bloggers to see if they’re interested in writing about your event. You can also offer them free tickets or a complimentary meal in exchange for coverage. If you’re planning an in-person event, consider including a QR code on the invitation that links to more information about your organization and what attendees can expect from attending this particular gathering. This is also helpful if there are any changes that need to be made last minute, as people will always have access to the most up-to-date information about your event. Also, hiring a professional photographer is always a good idea when planning an event. Not only will they help capture all the important moments for your attendees, but it is also important to have high-quality images on hand that you can use in future marketing materials or promotional campaigns. Lastly, don’t forget about email marketing! You can use tools like MailChimp or Constant Contact which allow you to design beautiful newsletters and send them out for free (up to a certain number of subscribers). These tools also allow you to track how many people open and click through your email so you can see which messages are resonating with your audience. Consider Having an Event App If you’re planning an event, it might be worth looking into creating a mobile app for your attendees. There are many benefits to having an event app, such as: Easy access to important information like maps and schedules makes navigating the venue easier than ever before. You can send push notifications with updates or reminders about upcoming talks or events. Interactive features like a voting ballot or Q&A session can keep attendees engaged and entertained. The ability to sell tickets and merchandise right from the app makes it easy for guests to purchase what they need without having to leave the event. While there are many different event apps on the market, most of them are fairly affordable, which makes them a great investment for any type of event. If you’re not sure where to start, try contacting a local app development company to see what they can do for you. Hire Amazing Staff One of the most important aspects of any successful event is the staff that you hire. Not only do they need to be professional and courteous, but they also need to be knowledgeable about the event itself and what’s going on so that they can answer any questions that guests might have. When hiring staff for your event, always make sure to have them fill out an application and provide references. This will allow you to see what kind of experience they’ve had in similar situations before making a final decision on who gets hired. You’ll also want someone who is going over everything that needs finishing before the event starts so that everyone is on the same page and that there are no surprises on the day itself. If you’re hosting an event at an outdoor venue, it’s advisable to hire security guards to monitor for any troublemakers or potential issues, such as fights among guests or intoxicated individuals wandering around. The success of your event heavily relies on the performance and professionalism of your staff. To ensure you hire a team that will elevate your event, consider these strategies: Define Roles Clearly: Before hiring, outline clear job descriptions for each role. This helps in attracting candidates who are a good fit and sets clear expectations from the outset. Leverage Networking and Referrals: Use your professional network to find reliable staff. Recommendations from trusted colleagues or industry connections can lead to discovering outstanding talent. Conduct Thorough Interviews: Go beyond the resume in interviews. Ask situational questions that reveal how candidates might handle specific challenges during events. Invest in Training: Even experienced event staff can benefit from training specific to your event’s requirements. This could include customer service, safety protocols, or technology used during the event. Build a Team Spirit: Foster a positive work environment and team spirit through team-building activities or briefings before the event starts. A team that works well together can significantly enhance the event experience for guests. Have a Backup Plan No matter how well you plan an event, there’s always the possibility that something will go wrong. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place for every possible scenario so that you’re not caught off guard if something unexpected happens. For example, what if the venue is double-booked and you have to move the event at the last minute? Or what if half of your guest list doesn’t show up because of a snowstorm? Or do you need to move everything under tents because of rain? Having a backup plan means that you’re always prepared for the worst-case scenario and can handle anything that comes your way. It might not be easy, but it’s definitely better than being caught off guard and having to deal with unhappy guests or a ruined event. By having a backup plan, you’ll be able to handle any situation that comes up and keep your event running smoothly. Pamper Your Sponsors Sponsors are an important part of any event, and it’s important to make sure that they feel appreciated. After all, they’re investing money in your event, so you want to make sure that they get the most out of it. One way to do this is by pampering them with exclusive benefits like early access to the venue or seating in a special area reserved just for them (and their guests). You can also offer them discounts on food, drinks and other things that might interest them. Decor and theme are also key to an event’s success, and they are very important to your sponsors. As such, you should always make sure to keep them in the loop about any changes or updates that you make. This will ensure that their branding and logo are prominently displayed throughout the event and that they get the most exposure possible. Create an Event Hashtag One of the biggest mistakes people make when planning events is not having an event hashtag. A hashtag lets attendees know what’s going on with your event, and it helps them to connect with other people who are attending. This also allows you to track conversations about the event on social media platforms like Twitter so that you can see what kind of buzz is being generated by attendees before they even arrive at your venue! This can help make sure that everything goes smoothly without any unexpected surprises because everyone already knows what’s going on. Include a Separate Cloud Storage Drive Having cloud storage is great for events because it allows you to store photos, videos and other files on the internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. This means that if anything happens during an event (like power outages), then there will still be access to important information such as guest lists or registration forms. It also allows you to keep track of how many people have RSVP’d so far, which will help ensure that they arrive at the correct time and place on day one! If there are any changes made throughout the planning process—such as adding new sponsors or vendors – then this will all be reflected accurately within your cloud storage system. Have a Transportation Plan Make sure that everyone can get to and from the event without any trouble. It’s important to have transportation plans in place for attendees who are coming from out of town or traveling by plane or train so they don’t miss out on anything! This is especially true if there will be alcohol served at your event as well since people might need a safe way to get home. Good resources to use for transportation include Uber, Lyft, and taxi services like Yellow Cab Co. Putting a Google Map with a marker on the event website is also helpful so people can see the address and directions to where they need to go before making their way to the event. Make the Food & Beverages Count Food and beverages play a crucial role in any event. It’s essential to ensure your guests are well taken care of, but you also want to avoid exhausting your entire budget on catering. So, how can you strike the right balance? One option would be hiring food trucks or having some local restaurants cater to different parts of the day (breakfast, lunch, dinner). This will keep costs down while also providing guests with a more personalized experience. If you’re having an outdoor event and know that rain is likely to fall, then bring umbrellas or tents for everyone so they can still enjoy their meal without getting soaked in the process! It’s all about thinking ahead of time and being prepared for any situation. Have an Entertainment Plan Make sure that there is always something for your guests to do. It’s important to have entertainment plans in place during events so people aren’t bored or left standing around waiting for the next thing to happen. This could be anything from live music performances to games and contests. Interim entertainment can include activities such as photo booths and relaxation and guest engagement areas. Entertainment is a vital aspect of any event, setting the tone and creating memorable experiences for attendees. To craft a stellar entertainment plan, consider the following: Know Your Audience: Tailor your entertainment choices to the preferences and demographics of your attendees. Whether it’s a live band, DJ, speakers, or interactive experiences, understanding your audience ensures the entertainment resonates. Diversify Entertainment Options: Offer a variety of entertainment to cater to different tastes and keep guests engaged throughout the event. This could include musical acts, magicians, photo booths, or interactive workshops. Schedule Wisely: Plan the timing of entertainment to maintain energy and flow. For example, a keynote speaker might be best positioned to captivate guests at the start, while a band can elevate the mood during a gala dinner. Consider Technical Needs: Ensure you have the necessary technical support for your entertainment choices. This includes sound systems, lighting, and staging. Coordination with your venue and technical team is essential. Feedback Loop: Engage with attendees post-event to gather feedback on the entertainment. This can guide future entertainment decisions and highlight what resonated most with your audience. Keep Your Guests Informed It’s important to keep your guests informed about any changes or updates so they know what’s going on at all times. This could be done in person by sending them an email with the latest news from you or including updates in a printed program. You can also keep everyone updated by posting updates on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Make sure to use the right hashtag so people can find all of your posts related to the event easily! Invest in New Event Technology Events have evolved significantly, now encompassing interactive virtual events, hybrid formats, and webinars alongside traditional in-person gatherings. Innovative technology can elevate any event from ordinary to extraordinary, so be sure to leverage these advancements to enhance the overall experience! You’ll want to invest in things such as lighting systems, speakers, and microphones for in-person speeches and presentations. Some virtual event ideas include: Drones with cameras attached so you can capture aerial views at heights not possible by humans. Virtual reality headsets allow attendees to experience immersive worlds from the comfort of their own homes. Augmented reality glasses that superimpose digital images onto real-world objects. Virtual live concerts that include video performances from musical artists. Collect Staff and Attendee Feedback After the event is over, it’s important to collect feedback from both your staff and attendees to measure success and other key details. You should ask them what they liked best about the event so that you can do more of those things at future events. Ask where improvements could be made to elevate the event experience or if there were any problems during planning or execution that need addressing soon after everything has settled down a bit. This will allow you to learn more about what went well and where improvements can be made for future events to make the attendee experience a positive one. Taking notes during the event is beneficial, as it allows you to make necessary adjustments for future events, such as altering the venue or switching catering companies. To effectively collect and utilize feedback, implement these strategies: Surveys: Develop post-event surveys for both attendees and staff. Use a mix of rating scales and open-ended questions to gather comprehensive insights. Feedback Stations: For larger events, consider setting up feedback stations where attendees can share their thoughts in real time. Social Media Monitoring: Utilize social media platforms to gather informal feedback. Attendees often share their experiences online, providing candid insights. Staff Debriefs: Organize a debrief session with your event team. This is an opportunity to discuss what went well and identify areas for improvement from the staff’s perspective. Action Plan: Compile the feedback into an actionable plan. Identify common themes and prioritize adjustments for future events based on this feedback. For a quick recap and to ensure you’ve covered all essential aspects of event planning, refer to the checklist table below. You can print it out and tick off tasks as you complete them for your event. Event Planning TaskDetails/RemarksDone Learn About Event ManagementAccess online resources, courses[ ] Comprehensive Event PlanVision, timeline, guestlist, etc.[ ] Choose Event SpaceLocation, ambiance, size[ ] Event Branding & DesignTheme, logos, website, name[ ] Set Event BudgetVenue, catering, decor, staff[ ] Design Marketing PlanChoose platform, content, media[ ] Consider an Event AppFeatures like schedules, maps[ ] Hire StaffApplication, references[ ] Backup PlanContingency measures[ ] Pamper SponsorsExclusive benefits, decor updates[ ] Event HashtagUnique and relevant[ ] Cloud Storage DriveFor event materials[ ] Transportation PlanFor out-of-town attendees[ ] Food & BeveragesCatering, outdoor precautions[ ] Entertainment PlanEngaging activities for guests[ ] Keep Guests InformedUpdates, changes[ ] Invest in Event TechLighting, sound systems[ ] Collect FeedbackFrom staff and attendees[ ] Use Our Event Planning Tips to Make Your Next Event Fantastic Planning an event can seem like a daunting task. But with these tips, you’ll be able to plan your next event in no time! And remember: don’t forget about the little things that make any party memorable—from decorations and food right down to seating arrangements. Best of luck to you! Image: Shutterstock This article, "Amazing Event Planning Tips" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Event organizers are in high demand as more and more people want to celebrate life’s special moments. The planning process for an event can be a challenge, but with careful organization, a good event planning checklist, and a few key event planning tips, you can pull off a spectacular event that your guests will never forget. Amazing Event Planning Tips There’s a lot that goes into event planning. Anything from choosing the right space to arranging food and beverages needs to be considered. Additionally, everything needs to go off without a hitch if your event is to be a success. That being said, you can get caught up in the fine details and stress yourself out if you’re not careful, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of amazing event-planning tips that will help take your event-planning skills to the next level. Learn About Event Management If you want to know how to start an event planning business, there are plenty of excellent resources out there. Event management is a specific field of study that can teach you the ins and outs of planning an event. It covers topics such as venue selection, logistics, marketing, budgeting, and more. If you’re serious about becoming an event planner, consider pursuing a degree in event management or even taking some online courses to give yourself a head start. There are also specialized certification programs you can pursue. There are plenty of skills you can learn from programs like these. For example, you’re going to be dealing with budgeting throughout your career as an event planner, and learning about finance is important for any business owner. Additionally, it’s helpful to know how to market an event so that more people will attend. Learning about marketing is also a good idea if you want to start your own event-planning business. There are many other courses available, including those focused on catering and hospitality. These courses will enhance your overall understanding of the industry and teach you how to effectively work with various types of clients. Gaining knowledge in event management is pivotal for any event planner looking to elevate their skills and services. Beyond formal education and certification, engaging in continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends can significantly enhance your event-planning prowess. Consider the following actions to deepen your event management knowledge: Join Professional Associations: Becoming a member of professional event planning associations such as the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) or the International Live Events Association (ILEA) can provide access to exclusive resources, webinars, and networking opportunities. Attend Industry Conferences: Regular attendance at industry conferences not only offers learning opportunities from seasoned professionals but also keeps you updated on the latest event technologies, trends, and best practices. Subscribe to Event Planning Publications: Keep your knowledge current by subscribing to leading event planning magazines and online publications. These resources are treasure troves of case studies, expert advice, and innovative ideas. Network with Peers: Building a strong network with fellow event planners can lead to knowledge exchange and collaboration opportunities. Peer discussions often reveal practical solutions to common challenges and creative ideas for event planning. No matter what type of education or training you pursue, always remember that experience is the best teacher. Try to get as much hands-on experience as possible by planning small events for your family and friends or volunteering with a local charity. Have a Comprehensive Event Plan Having a detailed event plan is essential when organizing any event. Think of it as your event’s blueprint, covering everything from your main objectives to all the small details that will make your event unique. Not only does it help you stay organized and focused, but it also gives a clear picture to everyone involved. The primary benefit of a good plan is that it keeps things on track. When there’s a lot to juggle, having a checklist can save time and reduce stress. Moreover, when you’re working with a team, this plan ensures everyone knows their role and what’s expected of them. For the organization or group you’re serving, your plan shows your preparation and professionalism. It provides a clear overview of what they can expect from the event and allows for feedback or adjustments as needed. In short, a comprehensive event plan is your guide to ensuring a successful event that meets everyone’s expectations. Make sure to include the following in your event plan: Vision and objectives Event Timeline Venue information Guestlist including contact information Menu and catering details Audio/visual requirements Transportation and parking information To make your event plan truly comprehensive, incorporate the following elements: Risk Management Plan: Identify potential risks that could impact your event, such as weather conditions, security concerns, or vendor failures. Develop strategies to mitigate these risks and include emergency response plans. Sustainability Practices: Describe the sustainable practices your event will implement, including reducing waste, opting for digital materials instead of physical ones, and choosing eco-friendly vendors. These actions not only support the environment but also improve your brand’s reputation. Inclusive Practices: Ensure your event is accessible and welcoming to all attendees by incorporating inclusive practices. This includes considering physical accessibility, providing diverse food options, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities. Technology Integration Plan: Detail how technology will be used to enhance the event experience. This might involve event apps, social media engagement strategies, live streaming options, and digital registration processes. Post-Event Evaluation Plan: Define how you will evaluate the success of your event. Include methods for collecting attendee feedback, measuring engagement levels, and assessing the achievement of your event objectives. If you’re a new event planner, look online or in your local library for an example of what an event plan should contain and how it should be formatted. Keep your own copy of this document so you can use it as a template when planning events for others. Additionally, there are many templates available online. You should also have a promotional plan that outlines how you will market your event. The event program is also a critical document that should be included in your event plan. This document will list the order of events and who is participating in each one. In addition, the event schedule should include the times of key events and who is responsible for each task. An event checklist is also an essential part of your event plan. This is a list of things you need to do before, during, and after the event. Make sure that your checklist includes tasks such as sending out invitations two months in advance (at least), negotiating contracts with vendors six weeks in advance (at least), confirming all details one month in advance (one week if possible), and reviewing all event details two weeks in advance (one day if possible). Just as you do with your event planner, put your checklist into a template after you’ve created it. Additionally, before you start planning an event, think about who your target audience is. This will help you decide on the type of venue, menu, entertainment and more. For example, a corporate event might require more formal attire than a birthday party would. Keep in mind that your event plan is not set in stone and can be amended as needed. The more comprehensive you are, the easier it will be to plan your next event. Your target audience will also appreciate having all of this information in one place. Choose Your Event Space Carefully When planning the perfect venue, choosing your event space is one of the most important decisions you will make. If it’s a corporate function, then location and size are critical, but if it’s a wedding or other personal event, things such as ambiance might be more important than location. Start by making a list of the features you need for each type of event in order to get an idea of what you’re looking for. Then, make a list of potential event spaces in your area and set up appointments to visit them. When you meet with the venue manager, bring along your list of requirements as well as a few ideas on how you might use their space if they do not have any event packages. Don’t forget to ask if they have a preferred list of vendors and what their policies are regarding alcohol, decorations, and other potential event details. Try not to contract with the venue until after you know how many people will be attending your event since this might affect your choice of location. Also, find out if there are technology perks like Wi-Fi and on-site IT at the venue location, as they can simplify your planning and help guests connect. Put Effort into Event Branding and Design Your event branding and design will be the first thing people see when they arrive at your event. It’s also something that you can use to help promote your event through social media, print materials, or even on a website. When you’re ready to take care of these important details, start by creating an overall theme for your event. This might be something as simple as using the same color scheme throughout all of your branding materials, or it could be a more specific theme, such as a vintage circus for a carnival-themed event. Once you have your theme in place, start designing logos, fonts and other graphics that will help to communicate your brand. If you’re not a designer, hire someone to do this for you. A professional will be able to create something that is cohesive and visually appealing. Next, start designing your event branding materials, including invitations, gift bags, and promotional items such as pens or lanyards with your logo on them. If you have the budget for it, consider hiring an event designer to help you with these details so that they are cohesive and professional-looking. When designing your event’s website, choose a theme that matches or complements your other branding materials. You can also use the same colors for each page of your site as well as include graphics from previous events on this new one if applicable. Besides the event design, you want to have an event name. The name of the event should be unique, but it also needs to fit your brand’s image. For example, if you’re hosting a Halloween party at a nightclub called “Club Purple”, then calling it something like “Purple Party” would work well because both names are related to each other and they match in color scheme as well. Don’t forget to create signage for your event that will help direct people where to go. This could be something as simple as a large banner at the entrance or directional signs throughout the venue. Creating a cohesive design for your event is an important way to make a good first impression and helps promote your event long before it actually takes place. Work Out an Event Budget Before you start planning your event, it’s important to have a realistic idea of how much money you’re willing to spend. This includes the cost of the venue, catering, decorations, entertainment and any other miscellaneous expenses that might come up. If you’re not sure where to start, try using a worksheet to help estimate the cost of your event. Once you have a ballpark number, start finding ways to reduce the cost so that you stay within your budget. One way to save money is by doing some of the work yourself, such as designing and printing invitations, creating signage, or making centerpieces. You can also find affordable catering options or look for discounts on decorations and supplies from local stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby. If you’re working within a budget, it’s also important to consider the cost of staff for your event. While you might not be able to hire full-time employees, there are many freelance companies that offer part-time workers at an hourly rate which is much more affordable when compared to a salary. When working out your event budget, consider the following detailed steps and tips: Break Down Categories: List every possible expense category, including venue, food and beverages, entertainment, decor, technology, marketing, and unexpected costs. This granularity helps in not overlooking any potential expenses. Research and Compare Quotes: For each category, obtain multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. This can significantly impact your overall budget and possibly allow for upgrades in other areas. Monitor All Expenses: Use budget tracking tools or software to keep an eye on your expenses as they occur. This allows you to make quick adjustments if some costs exceed your expectations. Include Contingency Funds: A common best practice is to allocate 5-10% of your total budget to a contingency fund. This fund is crucial for covering unforeseen expenses without derailing your event plans. Evaluate ROI for Corporate Events: For business-related events, outline how you will measure the return on investment (ROI). This could involve lead generation, sales, or brand exposure metrics, helping to justify the event’s cost. By creating a budget and sticking to it, you can avoid any last-minute surprises that might affect the overall success of your event. Design a Strong Marketing Plan When you’re planning an event, it’s important to create a strong marketing strategy in order to get the word out about your event and drive attendance. The first step is choosing which platform(s) will be most effective for reaching your target audience. For example, if you’re hosting a networking mixer at a local restaurant, then Facebook might be your best bet because most people who use social media are Millennials and Gen Xers, which means that’s where their attention is focused. If you decide to host an outdoor concert, promoting it through Instagram stories would be more effective, as they are mobile-friendly and visually appealing. Once you’ve decided which platform(s) to use, it’s time to start creating content. This should include a mix of teaser images or videos, quotes from speakers or attendees, and information about the event, such as the date, time, and location. You can also create a custom hashtag for people to use when they post about your event so that it’s easy for others to find it on social media. Media relations are also an important part of marketing an event. This includes reaching out to local publications and bloggers to see if they’re interested in writing about your event. You can also offer them free tickets or a complimentary meal in exchange for coverage. If you’re planning an in-person event, consider including a QR code on the invitation that links to more information about your organization and what attendees can expect from attending this particular gathering. This is also helpful if there are any changes that need to be made last minute, as people will always have access to the most up-to-date information about your event. Also, hiring a professional photographer is always a good idea when planning an event. Not only will they help capture all the important moments for your attendees, but it is also important to have high-quality images on hand that you can use in future marketing materials or promotional campaigns. Lastly, don’t forget about email marketing! You can use tools like MailChimp or Constant Contact which allow you to design beautiful newsletters and send them out for free (up to a certain number of subscribers). These tools also allow you to track how many people open and click through your email so you can see which messages are resonating with your audience. Consider Having an Event App If you’re planning an event, it might be worth looking into creating a mobile app for your attendees. There are many benefits to having an event app, such as: Easy access to important information like maps and schedules makes navigating the venue easier than ever before. You can send push notifications with updates or reminders about upcoming talks or events. Interactive features like a voting ballot or Q&A session can keep attendees engaged and entertained. The ability to sell tickets and merchandise right from the app makes it easy for guests to purchase what they need without having to leave the event. While there are many different event apps on the market, most of them are fairly affordable, which makes them a great investment for any type of event. If you’re not sure where to start, try contacting a local app development company to see what they can do for you. Hire Amazing Staff One of the most important aspects of any successful event is the staff that you hire. Not only do they need to be professional and courteous, but they also need to be knowledgeable about the event itself and what’s going on so that they can answer any questions that guests might have. When hiring staff for your event, always make sure to have them fill out an application and provide references. This will allow you to see what kind of experience they’ve had in similar situations before making a final decision on who gets hired. You’ll also want someone who is going over everything that needs finishing before the event starts so that everyone is on the same page and that there are no surprises on the day itself. If you’re hosting an event at an outdoor venue, it’s advisable to hire security guards to monitor for any troublemakers or potential issues, such as fights among guests or intoxicated individuals wandering around. The success of your event heavily relies on the performance and professionalism of your staff. To ensure you hire a team that will elevate your event, consider these strategies: Define Roles Clearly: Before hiring, outline clear job descriptions for each role. This helps in attracting candidates who are a good fit and sets clear expectations from the outset. Leverage Networking and Referrals: Use your professional network to find reliable staff. Recommendations from trusted colleagues or industry connections can lead to discovering outstanding talent. Conduct Thorough Interviews: Go beyond the resume in interviews. Ask situational questions that reveal how candidates might handle specific challenges during events. Invest in Training: Even experienced event staff can benefit from training specific to your event’s requirements. This could include customer service, safety protocols, or technology used during the event. Build a Team Spirit: Foster a positive work environment and team spirit through team-building activities or briefings before the event starts. A team that works well together can significantly enhance the event experience for guests. Have a Backup Plan No matter how well you plan an event, there’s always the possibility that something will go wrong. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place for every possible scenario so that you’re not caught off guard if something unexpected happens. For example, what if the venue is double-booked and you have to move the event at the last minute? Or what if half of your guest list doesn’t show up because of a snowstorm? Or do you need to move everything under tents because of rain? Having a backup plan means that you’re always prepared for the worst-case scenario and can handle anything that comes your way. It might not be easy, but it’s definitely better than being caught off guard and having to deal with unhappy guests or a ruined event. By having a backup plan, you’ll be able to handle any situation that comes up and keep your event running smoothly. Pamper Your Sponsors Sponsors are an important part of any event, and it’s important to make sure that they feel appreciated. After all, they’re investing money in your event, so you want to make sure that they get the most out of it. One way to do this is by pampering them with exclusive benefits like early access to the venue or seating in a special area reserved just for them (and their guests). You can also offer them discounts on food, drinks and other things that might interest them. Decor and theme are also key to an event’s success, and they are very important to your sponsors. As such, you should always make sure to keep them in the loop about any changes or updates that you make. This will ensure that their branding and logo are prominently displayed throughout the event and that they get the most exposure possible. Create an Event Hashtag One of the biggest mistakes people make when planning events is not having an event hashtag. A hashtag lets attendees know what’s going on with your event, and it helps them to connect with other people who are attending. This also allows you to track conversations about the event on social media platforms like Twitter so that you can see what kind of buzz is being generated by attendees before they even arrive at your venue! This can help make sure that everything goes smoothly without any unexpected surprises because everyone already knows what’s going on. Include a Separate Cloud Storage Drive Having cloud storage is great for events because it allows you to store photos, videos and other files on the internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. This means that if anything happens during an event (like power outages), then there will still be access to important information such as guest lists or registration forms. It also allows you to keep track of how many people have RSVP’d so far, which will help ensure that they arrive at the correct time and place on day one! If there are any changes made throughout the planning process—such as adding new sponsors or vendors – then this will all be reflected accurately within your cloud storage system. Have a Transportation Plan Make sure that everyone can get to and from the event without any trouble. It’s important to have transportation plans in place for attendees who are coming from out of town or traveling by plane or train so they don’t miss out on anything! This is especially true if there will be alcohol served at your event as well since people might need a safe way to get home. Good resources to use for transportation include Uber, Lyft, and taxi services like Yellow Cab Co. Putting a Google Map with a marker on the event website is also helpful so people can see the address and directions to where they need to go before making their way to the event. Make the Food & Beverages Count Food and beverages play a crucial role in any event. It’s essential to ensure your guests are well taken care of, but you also want to avoid exhausting your entire budget on catering. So, how can you strike the right balance? One option would be hiring food trucks or having some local restaurants cater to different parts of the day (breakfast, lunch, dinner). This will keep costs down while also providing guests with a more personalized experience. If you’re having an outdoor event and know that rain is likely to fall, then bring umbrellas or tents for everyone so they can still enjoy their meal without getting soaked in the process! It’s all about thinking ahead of time and being prepared for any situation. Have an Entertainment Plan Make sure that there is always something for your guests to do. It’s important to have entertainment plans in place during events so people aren’t bored or left standing around waiting for the next thing to happen. This could be anything from live music performances to games and contests. Interim entertainment can include activities such as photo booths and relaxation and guest engagement areas. Entertainment is a vital aspect of any event, setting the tone and creating memorable experiences for attendees. To craft a stellar entertainment plan, consider the following: Know Your Audience: Tailor your entertainment choices to the preferences and demographics of your attendees. Whether it’s a live band, DJ, speakers, or interactive experiences, understanding your audience ensures the entertainment resonates. Diversify Entertainment Options: Offer a variety of entertainment to cater to different tastes and keep guests engaged throughout the event. This could include musical acts, magicians, photo booths, or interactive workshops. Schedule Wisely: Plan the timing of entertainment to maintain energy and flow. For example, a keynote speaker might be best positioned to captivate guests at the start, while a band can elevate the mood during a gala dinner. Consider Technical Needs: Ensure you have the necessary technical support for your entertainment choices. This includes sound systems, lighting, and staging. Coordination with your venue and technical team is essential. Feedback Loop: Engage with attendees post-event to gather feedback on the entertainment. This can guide future entertainment decisions and highlight what resonated most with your audience. Keep Your Guests Informed It’s important to keep your guests informed about any changes or updates so they know what’s going on at all times. This could be done in person by sending them an email with the latest news from you or including updates in a printed program. You can also keep everyone updated by posting updates on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Make sure to use the right hashtag so people can find all of your posts related to the event easily! Invest in New Event Technology Events have evolved significantly, now encompassing interactive virtual events, hybrid formats, and webinars alongside traditional in-person gatherings. Innovative technology can elevate any event from ordinary to extraordinary, so be sure to leverage these advancements to enhance the overall experience! You’ll want to invest in things such as lighting systems, speakers, and microphones for in-person speeches and presentations. Some virtual event ideas include: Drones with cameras attached so you can capture aerial views at heights not possible by humans. Virtual reality headsets allow attendees to experience immersive worlds from the comfort of their own homes. Augmented reality glasses that superimpose digital images onto real-world objects. Virtual live concerts that include video performances from musical artists. Collect Staff and Attendee Feedback After the event is over, it’s important to collect feedback from both your staff and attendees to measure success and other key details. You should ask them what they liked best about the event so that you can do more of those things at future events. Ask where improvements could be made to elevate the event experience or if there were any problems during planning or execution that need addressing soon after everything has settled down a bit. This will allow you to learn more about what went well and where improvements can be made for future events to make the attendee experience a positive one. Taking notes during the event is beneficial, as it allows you to make necessary adjustments for future events, such as altering the venue or switching catering companies. To effectively collect and utilize feedback, implement these strategies: Surveys: Develop post-event surveys for both attendees and staff. Use a mix of rating scales and open-ended questions to gather comprehensive insights. Feedback Stations: For larger events, consider setting up feedback stations where attendees can share their thoughts in real time. Social Media Monitoring: Utilize social media platforms to gather informal feedback. Attendees often share their experiences online, providing candid insights. Staff Debriefs: Organize a debrief session with your event team. This is an opportunity to discuss what went well and identify areas for improvement from the staff’s perspective. Action Plan: Compile the feedback into an actionable plan. Identify common themes and prioritize adjustments for future events based on this feedback. For a quick recap and to ensure you’ve covered all essential aspects of event planning, refer to the checklist table below. You can print it out and tick off tasks as you complete them for your event. Event Planning TaskDetails/RemarksDone Learn About Event ManagementAccess online resources, courses[ ] Comprehensive Event PlanVision, timeline, guestlist, etc.[ ] Choose Event SpaceLocation, ambiance, size[ ] Event Branding & DesignTheme, logos, website, name[ ] Set Event BudgetVenue, catering, decor, staff[ ] Design Marketing PlanChoose platform, content, media[ ] Consider an Event AppFeatures like schedules, maps[ ] Hire StaffApplication, references[ ] Backup PlanContingency measures[ ] Pamper SponsorsExclusive benefits, decor updates[ ] Event HashtagUnique and relevant[ ] Cloud Storage DriveFor event materials[ ] Transportation PlanFor out-of-town attendees[ ] Food & BeveragesCatering, outdoor precautions[ ] Entertainment PlanEngaging activities for guests[ ] Keep Guests InformedUpdates, changes[ ] Invest in Event TechLighting, sound systems[ ] Collect FeedbackFrom staff and attendees[ ] Use Our Event Planning Tips to Make Your Next Event Fantastic Planning an event can seem like a daunting task. But with these tips, you’ll be able to plan your next event in no time! And remember: don’t forget about the little things that make any party memorable—from decorations and food right down to seating arrangements. Best of luck to you! Image: Shutterstock This article, "Amazing Event Planning Tips" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We are seeing more Google search ranking volatility hit both over the weekend and also mid-week. Google expanded its site reputation abuse enforcement to Germany. Google AI Overviews powered by Gemini 2.0 can go insanely deep. Google launched a new labs experiment named Ask for me...View the full article

Google recently gathered influential voices in the food industry to unveil the latest trends shaping restaurant search and digital marketing. From skyrocketing search terms to drone deliveries and the power of YouTube Shorts, here’s everything you need to know from the Restaurant Industry Influencer Summit. Sizzling search trends: What’s cooking in 2025? Google’s latest search data offers a glimpse into what today’s diners are craving – both in terms of food and digital experiences. Here are some of the hottest trends shaping restaurant searches right now: “Hot honey pizza” is up 232% year-over-year (YoY). And if that doesn’t give you insight into the modern diet, I don’t know what will. It’s right up there with “food near me” and “food near me open now.” “Food near me” has seen an impressive 99% YoY growth. “Food near me open now” skyrocketed by a jaw-dropping 875% YoY, which is basically Google screaming at you to update your business hours. “Restaurants cerca de mí” (restaurants near me in Spanish) emerged as a breakout search. This really highlights the growing demand for businesses to cater to Spanish-speaking audiences. Speak their language – literally There’s been a noticeable rise in Spanish-language searches for terms like “restaurants near me” and “fast food near me.” Businesses that translate their menus and ads into Spanish (and other languages) will attract more customers and spend less money bidding on keywords. Wendy’s and DoorDash take flight: The future of fast food delivery DoorDash and Wendy’s are expanding drone delivery. Testing is underway in Christiansburg, Virginia, and Dallas, with plans to launch in Charlotte. These drones reduce delivery times from 30 minutes to 15, flying up to 70 mph. Show, don’t tell Search is becoming increasingly visual as Google doubles down on images and videos. No surprise there. But here’s why it matters: restaurant-related searches have grown 33% year over year, and Google’s AI prioritizes high-quality visuals. If your business still has blurry food photos, it’s time for an upgrade. Professional photography can make all the difference. Let’s be honest, no one is clicking on a pixelated burger. If your Google Business Profile could talk… Lisa Landsman, Google’s head of global partnerships for the restaurants and travel verticals, posed a thought-provoking question: “If your Google Business Profile could talk, what story would it tell?” For many, it would likely be a tale of missed opportunities. Michael Gnagy, product manager at Google, emphasized that “no one is better at telling your story than you.” Keeping your profile updated with menus, photos, and accurate business hours helps Google’s AI deliver better results because it thrives on fresh data. When I asked Gnagy whether adding attributes like Vegan or Vegetarian contributes to the “Ask Maps About This Place” feature, he confirmed that, theoretically, it should. Google’s AI reviews all available data. Even small menu updates can shape how your business appears in search results. While AI models aren’t perfect, they work best when given more data – so make sure your profile tells the right story. Dig deeper: Google expands AI organized search results to restaurants Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. For restaurants, the future is Shorts YouTube for restaurants is about to be a real thing. If you’re not already creating YouTube Shorts and linking your account to your Google Business Profile, you’re leaving money on the table. YouTube Shorts is a unique feed experience centered around vertical, full-screen videos up to three minutes long. Here’s why your restaurant needs to jump on this trend: Over 70% of YouTube channels now upload Shorts regularly. Shorts outperform competitors like TikTok and Instagram Reels in terms of monthly usage. The format is designed for continuous engagement with swipeable, looped playback and algorithm-driven discovery. Initially popular with Gen Z, YouTube Shorts has expanded its reach to all age groups, now appealing to audiences aged 13-54. By optimizing your Shorts with geotags, relevant titles, and descriptions, your content has the potential to be featured in search results. “According to a survey by Material, screened respondents in the US reported using YouTube Shorts the most among short-form video providers on a monthly basis.” – “How brands can get the most out of YouTube Shorts ads,” Google Ads & Commerce Blog Farah Shirzadi, stressed the importance of establishing a solid presence on YouTube. At a minimum, she recommended: Creating a channel. Linking to your website. Adding your location and business type. Uploading your logo. Linking your menu. Connecting your YouTube handle to your Google Business Profile ensures your channel is recognized as the official page. Introducing Place Pivot Pages: A new way to showcase your business on YouTube To help your business stand out, Google offers a new feature called Place Pivot Pages, which centralizes all videos and Shorts related to a specific location or business. By linking your YouTube handle to your Google Business Profile, you can make your business’s official videos more discoverable alongside user-generated content tagged to the same location. This integration offers an opportunity to showcase your business through both official content and community-driven media. Building your brand on YouTube Shorts SEO experts are increasingly focusing on branding, a shift highlighted by last year’s Google API leak, which confirmed Google’s preference for recognized and trusted brands. YouTube Shorts isn’t just about short-form videos. It’s a powerful branding tool. Here’s how to use it to strengthen your restaurant or local business: Showcase your personality: Share behind-the-scenes moments, tell your story, and highlight what makes your brand unique. Collaborate with local creators: Partner with influencers to expand your reach and connect with new audiences. Engage your community: Use comments, polls, and live streams to foster a strong connection with your audience. Shawn P. Walchef of Cali BBQ Media shared success stories during a recent event, which he live-streamed on his YouTube channel. His key takeaway? Go live. Even if a stream starts with just 20 viewers, the real power lies in its simplicity. No post-production, just authentic engagement. “We started going all in on YouTube Shorts in October 2024,” he shared. Bottom line? YouTube Shorts isn’t just a trend – it’s a branding powerhouse. Local Promotions in Maps: Boosting foot traffic with Performance Max Launched in January 2025, the Local Promotions in Maps ad format – available through Performance Max for Store Goals – helps drive in-store traffic and boost sales with highly engaging, actionable promotions. This feature allows businesses to attach in-store redeemable coupons to their campaigns, making them prominently visible on Google Maps. These promotions are: Viewable: Shown directly on a store’s location pin. Sharable: Customers can save and share offers. Actionable: Redeemable in-store or online for a seamless experience. Note: Promotion assets must be added to the Performance Max for Store Goals campaign. Account-level promotion assets won’t automatically serve in Maps. Learn more from Google’s help resources: “Create a Performance Max for store goals.” “About promotion assets.” Justin Huang, Google’s global product lead, shared a key tip: use Performance Max bids to target local actions or store visits and enhance engagement by adding an offer code. The results speak for themselves: Advertisers in the pilot saw a +42% increase in CTR by appending redeemable coupons. Nearly 45% of surveyed shoppers identified deals and promotions as the most helpful brand communication when considering a purchase. Final thoughts One thing is clear: Google wants more content. They’re “motivated and excited” (their words, not mine) to create new features with AI, but they need businesses to step up. Text messaging is making a comeback, and dynamic updates are the new normal. My advice? Log in, update your profile, and give Google’s AI something to work with. It’s 2025. Your menu, videos, and photos should reflect it. Dig deeper: Google Business Profile’s AI-transcribed menu upload just got better View the full article

Ginny Marvin, the Google Ads Liaison, has confirmed that demographic exclusions will apply to Shopping inventory in Performance Max campaigns. Marvin added that the reporting on how this is shown to advertisers is still to be determined, but the goal is to let advertisers control which age groups can or cannot see the ads.View the full article

Mutual group that owns Waitrose and department store blames subdued pre-Christmas consumer confidenceView the full article

Google is testing (I think again) review carousels and block units in its search results for product queries. A number of SEOs spotted these coming up over the past week or two, and they basically show product review content in a separate section within Google Search.View the full article

Google Search is now sometimes showing the ability to filter products in its search results by product rating. I am not sure if this is new or not, but I cannot replicate this but some are seeing the product rating filter/refinement option when searching.View the full article

Google is testing a new filter for its shopping results in the mobile search results. Instead of showing a single filter menu, Google is showing a product image carousel line first and then a filter menu for additional search filters.View the full article

Whether you’re a musician looking for more control over the publication of your art or an entrepreneur who enjoys working with talent, you can get any small music business ideas off the ground by starting your own record label. And it’s easier than you might think. Read on for everything you need to start your own independent record label. What is a Record Label? A record label is a brand that represents the music of one or more artists. It conducts the business of music, including signing contracts with and promoting musicians, as well as recording, publishing, and distributing their music in physical and electronic formats. While all of these functions are typically carried out in-house at a major record label, tasks like publication and distribution often are outsourced to other companies by independent record labels. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Record Label? You don’t necessarily need any capital to start a small independent record label. In fact, you can establish a label with no money by naming it and creating a social media presence. Once you start working with artists, you can seek an investor to financially support your business venture. Are Record Labels Profitable? Publishing records isn’t without its costs, and a record label must pay its artists, pay for recording costs and pay for publication before it can ever sell a record. These costs must then be recouped from music sales before the small business begins to turn a profit. While a record label ultimately can become a profitable business, don’t expect to start seeing those gains immediately. How to Start a Record Label: 21 Simple Steps to Get Started in the Music Industry Have you always wanted to try your hand at a music career? Are you a music lover who has always dreamed of becoming a label owner? Check out the following 21 simple steps to get started in the music industry and start a record label: Name Your Record Label Business and Register What will you call your record label? It’s vital that your label has a unique business name, so be sure to research your options before choosing. Check for other businesses with the same name using sources including state registries, the federal trademark database and even Google. You might also want to be sure the name is available as a website domain, even if that organization does business under another brand. You want to protect your brand once you’ve chosen your record label’s name. Registering for a trademark ensures your brand name remains unique among the competition. What is a trademark? In the United States, a registered trademark provides the exclusive right to use your business name nationwide in connection with the goods and services you identify when you register. It also allows you to enforce your trademark by filing a lawsuit in federal court if a competitor infringes on it and uses your name. Brand Your Indie Label Your indie label brand might start with your name, but it doesn’t end there. Audiences also identify brands visually, so it’s important to create a logo to represent your record label. Your logo will visually represent your record company to the market, so it should signify your label’s music, values, and vision. If you are artistically inclined, you can design your own logo, or you can choose from a variety of logo design tools and services. Choose a Business Structure How will you structure your record label? Will you be the sole owner of your small business, or will your indie label be a partnership? Who is legally responsible for the brand? When establishing the structure of your record company, you can choose from a variety of business entities, but the following three will be most commonly used by small indie labels: Sole proprietorship – This is the easiest type of business structure to set up. A sole proprietorship can be created without any formalities, as the business and the individual owner are considered the same legal entity. In this arrangement, the owner receives all business profits but is also fully responsible for any liabilities incurred by the business. Partnership – A partnership is a business owned by more than one person. Each partner contributes to the business, although not necessarily equally. For example, one partner might provide capital while another provides talent and skill. Each partner then shares in the profits and losses of the business. While not legally required, it’s beneficial to establish a legal partnership agreement, which is a basic business agreement that determines roles and responsibilities. LLC – LLCs combine the characteristics of a sole proprietorship and a corporation. A limited liability company is a business structure that protects its owners’ personal assets and personal responsibility for the company’s debts or liabilities. Unlike shareholders in a corporation, however, LLCs aren’t taxed as separate business entities. Research the Competition of Major Labels It’s important for any small business owner to understand their competition. In the record industry, brands will be competing against major record labels and other independent record labels. Research the competition and see what other labels are doing that you want to emulate and in what ways you can make your indie label unique and stand apart from the competition. Pick a Niche and Understand Your Target Market If you want your indie record label to stand apart from the sea of competition, choosing a business niche and target market is important. The music industry is vast, and your small business will easily get lost in the crowd of independent labels if you try to cater to the entire market. In what type of music will you specialize? Will you sign blues singers, hip-hop artists or folk musicians? Will you cater to casual listeners, teenage music lovers, or international fans? Set Up a Business Bank Account Before your business starts sending or receiving money, be sure to open a business bank account. A business bank account offers a level of professionalism to your small business, and it helps keep your record label legally compliant by separating your business and personal finances. Purchase Necessary Equipment What equipment will you need to start your own record label? You can outsource the publishing and distribution of your music, and you can rent time in a studio to record an album. Some musicians also have their own equipment. You can establish a basic recording outfit using standard software and computer equipment for as little as $150. Ultimately, however, you will want to purchase professional-quality recording equipment and establish your own recording studio, which can cost $15,000 or more. Equipment includes acoustic drum kits, audio interfaces, microphones, monitors, mixers, cables, and tables and chairs. Create an Online Presence for Your Music Label Every successful business needs to establish an online presence, and your music label is no exception. It costs nothing to create an online presence. Start by opening an email account for your indie label and establishing a social media presence with profiles on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You also can create a professional website by registering a domain that ties back into your brand. While you can upgrade to an engaging and even interactive web page, you don’t have to start with a fancy website to create an effective online presence. Get Licenses and Permits Will you need any permits and licenses to operate your record label? Requirements for businesses to obtain various types of permits and licenses vary by state and locality, so the answer requires each small business owner to do some research. Be sure to check on the business requirements in your locality and apply for any applicable permits and licenses for your indie record company. Choose a Location From where will your record label operate? While you can establish your own independent studio in a rented space, you can save money for your small business by operating out of your home office. You can rent studio time and arrange professional meetings at external locations while running your business from home or a shared workspace. Get Business Insurance Getting the right types of insurance for your small business is always important. Insurance policies help protect your company in the event of a fire, theft, natural disaster, crisis, or even a loss of sales. To purchase the right types of insurance for your small business, it’s important to identify your needs. The following business insurance types might be purchased by a small business owner starting a record label: Property insurance – Regardless of the type of business, any company that owns and holds physical property should invest in property insurance. This coverage will safeguard your record label’s assets and equipment, no matter where they are located. Liability insurance – To protect your record label from certain financial losses and even devastation, liability insurance covers medical expenses and legal fees for which your business may be legally responsible. Cyber insurance – Small businesses that conduct any business online should protect themselves with cyber insurance, which protects them from malware, cyber-attacks, and data loss. If you promote your record label on a website or if you engage in digital distribution, you will want to protect your interests with cyber insurance. Sort Out Your Record Label Taxes Like any small business, your record label will be subject to a variety of local, state, and federal taxes. You might owe property taxes, state and federal income taxes, sales taxes, and even employment taxes. Be sure to register for a Federal Tax ID and any needed state tax IDs, and protect your business by researching the applicable taxes in your region. Join Trade Bodies and Societies To help further the success of your new music label, you should enhance your networking opportunities by joining relevant trade bodies and societies. Members not only boost their networking but they are often invited to free industry events where you can learn more about the music business. For example, members of the British Phonographic Industry are considered parts of the “Brit Awards Voting Academy,” which means they vote on the annual winners. Other trade bodies an indie record label might join include the American Association of Independent Music, the Association of Independent Music Publishers and the International Alliance for Women in Music. Set Up a Business Phone System Your next client might be just a phone call away. Therefore, it’s crucial for every small business owner to set up a business phone system for their company. You never know when the next rising independent artist could be reaching out to you. What features will you need in your record label’s phone system? You might not think you need more than basic phone service features, including caller ID, hold, and voice mail. When choosing business phone system features, however, remember that your phone service presentation can represent your level of professionalism. Build a Team Nobody achieves success alone, and even a sole proprietor should build a team of experts to help launch their independent record label. You don’t need your team to assemble to be effective physically. You can surround yourself with professionals around the world and work together virtually. When starting a record label, you will want to work with professionals, including a music lawyer, music producers, accountants, radio personalities, public relations representatives, and music video directors. You also will want to make important contacts with talent scouts and entertainment managers who can help you sign contracts with musicians. Market Your Label If you want the world to know about your record company, it’s vital you market your label. You can hire a marketing agency to promote your business, or you can concentrate on promotion in-house. Without marketing, your small label might flounder and fail to grow. Even after you sign artists and record albums and digital music, the promotion will remain an integral part of your record business. Get Groups to Sign Up How do you convince talent they can trust their music careers to your label? Without artists and groups to record music for you, there is no product, and you don’t have a functioning label. Even a new label will likely need to work with artists’ managers and lawyers when signing legal contracts and a recording agreement, so you’ll also want representation and legal advice. Look for Investors How will you finance your record label? Launching your brand might not take much, but running a record label takes money. You will need to pay artists, pay for recording costs, and pay for publication, marketing, and distribution, among many other costs involved with running a small business. Many small business owners find it challenging to cover all of these expenses on their own, leading them to seek at least one individual to invest in their business. Release Music Distribution used to be a headache for anyone not affiliated with a major label, but thanks to online music and streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify, releasing music is now an option for practically anyone. Any indie record label or independent artist can sell their music in the world’s largest online music stores by choosing a digital distributor. Even a first release can become a big seller and make a profit without recouping all the manufacturing costs associated with physical album sales. Collect Your Royalties As your music begins to be streamed and purchased, you will start receiving royalty payments from your distributor, which are based on your sales. Additionally, you may receive other types of payments, such as mechanical royalties, public performance royalties, and SoundExchange royalties. Be the Owner of a Successful Independent Record Label Owning a successful independent record label is not just about releasing music; it’s about creating a sustainable, influential presence in the music industry. Here are key factors to focus on: Foster Artist Development: One of the key roles of a record label is to help artists develop their talent and reach their full potential. Invest time in identifying and nurturing promising artists, helping them refine their style, and guiding them in their career paths. Successful artist development can lead to long-term relationships and a strong roster of talent for your label. Build Strong Industry Relationships: Networking is crucial in the music business. Establish and maintain relationships with music producers, distributors, promoters, venue owners, and other record labels. These connections can lead to collaborative opportunities, better distribution deals, and increased visibility for your label and artists. Effective Marketing and Promotion: Develop innovative marketing strategies for your artists and their music. This might include digital marketing, social media campaigns, music videos, and live events. It’s important to adapt your marketing approach to each artist’s style and audience. Diversify Revenue Streams: Look for multiple revenue streams beyond just selling music. This can include merchandise sales, live performance bookings, licensing deals, and collaborations with other brands or artists. Diversification helps stabilize your income and can open new opportunities for growth. Stay on Top of Industry Trends: The music industry is constantly evolving, with new genres emerging and consumer preferences changing. Stay informed about current trends, emerging technologies in music production and distribution, and shifts in the way people consume music. Invest in Technology: Utilize the latest technology for music production, distribution, and marketing. This includes high-quality recording equipment, digital distribution platforms, and data analytics tools to track sales and streaming numbers. Encourage Creative Freedom: Provide artists with the opportunity to explore and express their creativity. This approach can result in distinctive, innovative music that differentiates your label from the competition. Manage Finances Wisely: Keep a close eye on your finances, including budgeting for productions, marketing, and artist advances. Use financial data to make informed decisions about investments and expansions. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Releasing a smaller number of high-quality, well-promoted albums is more beneficial than putting out a large volume of poorly produced ones. High-quality releases enhance your label’s reputation and credibility. Plan for Long-Term Growth: Always keep an eye on the future. Plan for the long-term growth of your label, setting realistic goals and adapting your strategy as the industry changes. Stay Passionate and Committed: Finally, your passion for music and commitment to your artists and their work is what will drive your label’s success. Stay enthusiastic and dedicated, and your passion will resonate in every aspect of your business. By focusing on these aspects, you can build a successful and reputable independent record label that not only thrives in the competitive music industry but also contributes positively to the artistic community. Once you start earning money, you are well on your way to being the owner of a successful independent record label. Like any small business, you’ll want to look ahead toward further growth and maximize your earnings where possible. Scaling the business will be your next major step. How to Start a Record Label with No Money Anyone can start a record label, even if they don’t have any money. Eventually, you’ll need capital to expand your business, but it’s possible to find significant savings when you start your indie label. By the time you’ve chosen a name and established a social media presence, both of which are free, your label can be called official. Networking with artists also costs nothing, and you might be able to score your first contract before you’ve spent a dime. If you still have no money when it’s time to record music, you can seek an angel investor to help your company grow. Pros and Cons of Starting Your Own Record Label Starting Your Own Record LabelGoing with a Company Creative freedomLess creative freedom Financial freedomLess financial freedom Helping artists achieve their dreamsLess involvement in artist development Building a brandLess control over brand identity Learning the business side of musicLess hands-on experience Networking opportunitiesLess networking opportunities Sense of accomplishmentLess sense of ownership RiskLess risk Time commitmentLess time commitment Whether you start your own record label or go with an established company, both have pros and cons. Here are the pros and cons of starting your own label. Creative freedom: When you start your record label, you have complete control over the music you release. You can sign the artists you want, produce the music you want, and release it how you want. This can be a great advantage if you have a clear vision for your label and want to execute it exactly the way you want. However, it can also be a disadvantage if you don’t have much experience in the music industry and don’t know how to market and promote your music effectively. Financial freedom: When you start your own record label, you keep a larger share of the profits from your music sales than you would if you were signed to a company. This can be a great advantage if your label is successful. However, it’s important to remember that starting your own record label is a risky business venture, and there is no guarantee of success. You could lose a lot of money if you are not careful. Helping artists achieve their dreams: When you start your own record label, you can help talented artists achieve their dreams of becoming successful musicians. This can be a very rewarding experience, and it can also be a great way to build your own reputation in the music industry. However, it’s important to remember that not all artists are successful, and you could end up investing a lot of time and money into artists who never achieve mainstream success. Building a brand: When you start your own record label, you can build a unique brand that reflects your music taste and vision for the future. This can be a great way to connect with music fans and build a loyal following for your label. However, it’s important to remember that building a brand takes time and effort, and success is not guaranteed. Learning the business side of music: When you start your own record label, you will learn a lot about the business side of music. This includes things like marketing, promotion, distribution, and finance. This knowledge can be invaluable if you ever decide to sell your label or if you want to work in the music industry in another capacity. Networking opportunities: When you start your own record label, you will meet a lot of interesting people in the music industry, including artists, managers, promoters, and other label owners. These networking opportunities can be very helpful if you want to promote your label and its artists. However, it’s important to remember that not all the people you meet will be helpful, and you must be careful who you trust. Sense of accomplishment: When you start your own record label, and it is successful, you will feel great accomplishment. You will know that you have achieved something that is very difficult to do, and you will have helped to create something that will have a lasting impact on the music industry. Risk: Starting your own record label is a risky business venture. There is no guarantee of success, and you could lose a lot of money if you are not careful. You need to be prepared to put in a lot of hard work and make a lot of sacrifices. Time commitment: Starting your own record label is a very time-consuming venture. You will need to be prepared to put in long hours and make a lot of personal sacrifices. If you are unwilling to commit the time and effort, you will not likely be successful. FAQs What is a Record Label, and Why Should I Start One? A record label is a company that markets and promotes music and artists. Starting a record label allows you to have control over the production, distribution, and promotion of the music, providing a platform for new and existing talent. What Are the Legal Requirements for Starting a Record Label? Legal requirements can differ depending on the location, but they typically involve registering the business, acquiring the necessary licenses and permits, and ensuring adherence to copyright laws. How Much Capital is Required to Start a Record Label? The initial capital required can vary widely depending on the scale of the label. It can start from a few thousand dollars for a small independent label to millions for a large-scale operation. How Can I Find Artists to Sign to My Label? Finding artists can be done through networking, attending live shows, social media scouting, and collaboration with other industry professionals. Building relationships with musicians and understanding their needs is key to attracting talent. What Kind of Business Model Should I Choose for My Record Label? The business model varies based on the label’s objectives and available resources. Some labels prioritize digital distribution, whereas others may concentrate on physical sales. Additionally, hybrid models are prevalent, addressing diverse market needs. How Do I Market and Promote the Music on My Label? Marketing strategies can encompass social media promotion, press releases, music videos, live performances, and collaborations with influencers. It’s essential to understand the target audience to ensure effective promotion. What Are the Common Challenges in Running a Record Label, and How Can I Overcome Them? Common challenges include financial management, legal compliance, artist relations, and staying current with industry trends. Continuous learning, careful planning, and collaboration with experienced professionals can help in overcoming these challenges. Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Record Label" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Whether you’re a musician looking for more control over the publication of your art or an entrepreneur who enjoys working with talent, you can get any small music business ideas off the ground by starting your own record label. And it’s easier than you might think. Read on for everything you need to start your own independent record label. What is a Record Label? A record label is a brand that represents the music of one or more artists. It conducts the business of music, including signing contracts with and promoting musicians, as well as recording, publishing, and distributing their music in physical and electronic formats. While all of these functions are typically carried out in-house at a major record label, tasks like publication and distribution often are outsourced to other companies by independent record labels. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Record Label? You don’t necessarily need any capital to start a small independent record label. In fact, you can establish a label with no money by naming it and creating a social media presence. Once you start working with artists, you can seek an investor to financially support your business venture. Are Record Labels Profitable? Publishing records isn’t without its costs, and a record label must pay its artists, pay for recording costs and pay for publication before it can ever sell a record. These costs must then be recouped from music sales before the small business begins to turn a profit. While a record label ultimately can become a profitable business, don’t expect to start seeing those gains immediately. How to Start a Record Label: 21 Simple Steps to Get Started in the Music Industry Have you always wanted to try your hand at a music career? Are you a music lover who has always dreamed of becoming a label owner? Check out the following 21 simple steps to get started in the music industry and start a record label: Name Your Record Label Business and Register What will you call your record label? It’s vital that your label has a unique business name, so be sure to research your options before choosing. Check for other businesses with the same name using sources including state registries, the federal trademark database and even Google. You might also want to be sure the name is available as a website domain, even if that organization does business under another brand. You want to protect your brand once you’ve chosen your record label’s name. Registering for a trademark ensures your brand name remains unique among the competition. What is a trademark? In the United States, a registered trademark provides the exclusive right to use your business name nationwide in connection with the goods and services you identify when you register. It also allows you to enforce your trademark by filing a lawsuit in federal court if a competitor infringes on it and uses your name. Brand Your Indie Label Your indie label brand might start with your name, but it doesn’t end there. Audiences also identify brands visually, so it’s important to create a logo to represent your record label. Your logo will visually represent your record company to the market, so it should signify your label’s music, values, and vision. If you are artistically inclined, you can design your own logo, or you can choose from a variety of logo design tools and services. Choose a Business Structure How will you structure your record label? Will you be the sole owner of your small business, or will your indie label be a partnership? Who is legally responsible for the brand? When establishing the structure of your record company, you can choose from a variety of business entities, but the following three will be most commonly used by small indie labels: Sole proprietorship – This is the easiest type of business structure to set up. A sole proprietorship can be created without any formalities, as the business and the individual owner are considered the same legal entity. In this arrangement, the owner receives all business profits but is also fully responsible for any liabilities incurred by the business. Partnership – A partnership is a business owned by more than one person. Each partner contributes to the business, although not necessarily equally. For example, one partner might provide capital while another provides talent and skill. Each partner then shares in the profits and losses of the business. While not legally required, it’s beneficial to establish a legal partnership agreement, which is a basic business agreement that determines roles and responsibilities. LLC – LLCs combine the characteristics of a sole proprietorship and a corporation. A limited liability company is a business structure that protects its owners’ personal assets and personal responsibility for the company’s debts or liabilities. Unlike shareholders in a corporation, however, LLCs aren’t taxed as separate business entities. Research the Competition of Major Labels It’s important for any small business owner to understand their competition. In the record industry, brands will be competing against major record labels and other independent record labels. Research the competition and see what other labels are doing that you want to emulate and in what ways you can make your indie label unique and stand apart from the competition. Pick a Niche and Understand Your Target Market If you want your indie record label to stand apart from the sea of competition, choosing a business niche and target market is important. The music industry is vast, and your small business will easily get lost in the crowd of independent labels if you try to cater to the entire market. In what type of music will you specialize? Will you sign blues singers, hip-hop artists or folk musicians? Will you cater to casual listeners, teenage music lovers, or international fans? Set Up a Business Bank Account Before your business starts sending or receiving money, be sure to open a business bank account. A business bank account offers a level of professionalism to your small business, and it helps keep your record label legally compliant by separating your business and personal finances. Purchase Necessary Equipment What equipment will you need to start your own record label? You can outsource the publishing and distribution of your music, and you can rent time in a studio to record an album. Some musicians also have their own equipment. You can establish a basic recording outfit using standard software and computer equipment for as little as $150. Ultimately, however, you will want to purchase professional-quality recording equipment and establish your own recording studio, which can cost $15,000 or more. Equipment includes acoustic drum kits, audio interfaces, microphones, monitors, mixers, cables, and tables and chairs. Create an Online Presence for Your Music Label Every successful business needs to establish an online presence, and your music label is no exception. It costs nothing to create an online presence. Start by opening an email account for your indie label and establishing a social media presence with profiles on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You also can create a professional website by registering a domain that ties back into your brand. While you can upgrade to an engaging and even interactive web page, you don’t have to start with a fancy website to create an effective online presence. Get Licenses and Permits Will you need any permits and licenses to operate your record label? Requirements for businesses to obtain various types of permits and licenses vary by state and locality, so the answer requires each small business owner to do some research. Be sure to check on the business requirements in your locality and apply for any applicable permits and licenses for your indie record company. Choose a Location From where will your record label operate? While you can establish your own independent studio in a rented space, you can save money for your small business by operating out of your home office. You can rent studio time and arrange professional meetings at external locations while running your business from home or a shared workspace. Get Business Insurance Getting the right types of insurance for your small business is always important. Insurance policies help protect your company in the event of a fire, theft, natural disaster, crisis, or even a loss of sales. To purchase the right types of insurance for your small business, it’s important to identify your needs. The following business insurance types might be purchased by a small business owner starting a record label: Property insurance – Regardless of the type of business, any company that owns and holds physical property should invest in property insurance. This coverage will safeguard your record label’s assets and equipment, no matter where they are located. Liability insurance – To protect your record label from certain financial losses and even devastation, liability insurance covers medical expenses and legal fees for which your business may be legally responsible. Cyber insurance – Small businesses that conduct any business online should protect themselves with cyber insurance, which protects them from malware, cyber-attacks, and data loss. If you promote your record label on a website or if you engage in digital distribution, you will want to protect your interests with cyber insurance. Sort Out Your Record Label Taxes Like any small business, your record label will be subject to a variety of local, state, and federal taxes. You might owe property taxes, state and federal income taxes, sales taxes, and even employment taxes. Be sure to register for a Federal Tax ID and any needed state tax IDs, and protect your business by researching the applicable taxes in your region. Join Trade Bodies and Societies To help further the success of your new music label, you should enhance your networking opportunities by joining relevant trade bodies and societies. Members not only boost their networking but they are often invited to free industry events where you can learn more about the music business. For example, members of the British Phonographic Industry are considered parts of the “Brit Awards Voting Academy,” which means they vote on the annual winners. Other trade bodies an indie record label might join include the American Association of Independent Music, the Association of Independent Music Publishers and the International Alliance for Women in Music. Set Up a Business Phone System Your next client might be just a phone call away. Therefore, it’s crucial for every small business owner to set up a business phone system for their company. You never know when the next rising independent artist could be reaching out to you. What features will you need in your record label’s phone system? You might not think you need more than basic phone service features, including caller ID, hold, and voice mail. When choosing business phone system features, however, remember that your phone service presentation can represent your level of professionalism. Build a Team Nobody achieves success alone, and even a sole proprietor should build a team of experts to help launch their independent record label. You don’t need your team to assemble to be effective physically. You can surround yourself with professionals around the world and work together virtually. When starting a record label, you will want to work with professionals, including a music lawyer, music producers, accountants, radio personalities, public relations representatives, and music video directors. You also will want to make important contacts with talent scouts and entertainment managers who can help you sign contracts with musicians. Market Your Label If you want the world to know about your record company, it’s vital you market your label. You can hire a marketing agency to promote your business, or you can concentrate on promotion in-house. Without marketing, your small label might flounder and fail to grow. Even after you sign artists and record albums and digital music, the promotion will remain an integral part of your record business. Get Groups to Sign Up How do you convince talent they can trust their music careers to your label? Without artists and groups to record music for you, there is no product, and you don’t have a functioning label. Even a new label will likely need to work with artists’ managers and lawyers when signing legal contracts and a recording agreement, so you’ll also want representation and legal advice. Look for Investors How will you finance your record label? Launching your brand might not take much, but running a record label takes money. You will need to pay artists, pay for recording costs, and pay for publication, marketing, and distribution, among many other costs involved with running a small business. Many small business owners find it challenging to cover all of these expenses on their own, leading them to seek at least one individual to invest in their business. Release Music Distribution used to be a headache for anyone not affiliated with a major label, but thanks to online music and streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify, releasing music is now an option for practically anyone. Any indie record label or independent artist can sell their music in the world’s largest online music stores by choosing a digital distributor. Even a first release can become a big seller and make a profit without recouping all the manufacturing costs associated with physical album sales. Collect Your Royalties As your music begins to be streamed and purchased, you will start receiving royalty payments from your distributor, which are based on your sales. Additionally, you may receive other types of payments, such as mechanical royalties, public performance royalties, and SoundExchange royalties. Be the Owner of a Successful Independent Record Label Owning a successful independent record label is not just about releasing music; it’s about creating a sustainable, influential presence in the music industry. Here are key factors to focus on: Foster Artist Development: One of the key roles of a record label is to help artists develop their talent and reach their full potential. Invest time in identifying and nurturing promising artists, helping them refine their style, and guiding them in their career paths. Successful artist development can lead to long-term relationships and a strong roster of talent for your label. Build Strong Industry Relationships: Networking is crucial in the music business. Establish and maintain relationships with music producers, distributors, promoters, venue owners, and other record labels. These connections can lead to collaborative opportunities, better distribution deals, and increased visibility for your label and artists. Effective Marketing and Promotion: Develop innovative marketing strategies for your artists and their music. This might include digital marketing, social media campaigns, music videos, and live events. It’s important to adapt your marketing approach to each artist’s style and audience. Diversify Revenue Streams: Look for multiple revenue streams beyond just selling music. This can include merchandise sales, live performance bookings, licensing deals, and collaborations with other brands or artists. Diversification helps stabilize your income and can open new opportunities for growth. Stay on Top of Industry Trends: The music industry is constantly evolving, with new genres emerging and consumer preferences changing. Stay informed about current trends, emerging technologies in music production and distribution, and shifts in the way people consume music. Invest in Technology: Utilize the latest technology for music production, distribution, and marketing. This includes high-quality recording equipment, digital distribution platforms, and data analytics tools to track sales and streaming numbers. Encourage Creative Freedom: Provide artists with the opportunity to explore and express their creativity. This approach can result in distinctive, innovative music that differentiates your label from the competition. Manage Finances Wisely: Keep a close eye on your finances, including budgeting for productions, marketing, and artist advances. Use financial data to make informed decisions about investments and expansions. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Releasing a smaller number of high-quality, well-promoted albums is more beneficial than putting out a large volume of poorly produced ones. High-quality releases enhance your label’s reputation and credibility. Plan for Long-Term Growth: Always keep an eye on the future. Plan for the long-term growth of your label, setting realistic goals and adapting your strategy as the industry changes. Stay Passionate and Committed: Finally, your passion for music and commitment to your artists and their work is what will drive your label’s success. Stay enthusiastic and dedicated, and your passion will resonate in every aspect of your business. By focusing on these aspects, you can build a successful and reputable independent record label that not only thrives in the competitive music industry but also contributes positively to the artistic community. Once you start earning money, you are well on your way to being the owner of a successful independent record label. Like any small business, you’ll want to look ahead toward further growth and maximize your earnings where possible. Scaling the business will be your next major step. How to Start a Record Label with No Money Anyone can start a record label, even if they don’t have any money. Eventually, you’ll need capital to expand your business, but it’s possible to find significant savings when you start your indie label. By the time you’ve chosen a name and established a social media presence, both of which are free, your label can be called official. Networking with artists also costs nothing, and you might be able to score your first contract before you’ve spent a dime. If you still have no money when it’s time to record music, you can seek an angel investor to help your company grow. Pros and Cons of Starting Your Own Record Label Starting Your Own Record LabelGoing with a Company Creative freedomLess creative freedom Financial freedomLess financial freedom Helping artists achieve their dreamsLess involvement in artist development Building a brandLess control over brand identity Learning the business side of musicLess hands-on experience Networking opportunitiesLess networking opportunities Sense of accomplishmentLess sense of ownership RiskLess risk Time commitmentLess time commitment Whether you start your own record label or go with an established company, both have pros and cons. Here are the pros and cons of starting your own label. Creative freedom: When you start your record label, you have complete control over the music you release. You can sign the artists you want, produce the music you want, and release it how you want. This can be a great advantage if you have a clear vision for your label and want to execute it exactly the way you want. However, it can also be a disadvantage if you don’t have much experience in the music industry and don’t know how to market and promote your music effectively. Financial freedom: When you start your own record label, you keep a larger share of the profits from your music sales than you would if you were signed to a company. This can be a great advantage if your label is successful. However, it’s important to remember that starting your own record label is a risky business venture, and there is no guarantee of success. You could lose a lot of money if you are not careful. Helping artists achieve their dreams: When you start your own record label, you can help talented artists achieve their dreams of becoming successful musicians. This can be a very rewarding experience, and it can also be a great way to build your own reputation in the music industry. However, it’s important to remember that not all artists are successful, and you could end up investing a lot of time and money into artists who never achieve mainstream success. Building a brand: When you start your own record label, you can build a unique brand that reflects your music taste and vision for the future. This can be a great way to connect with music fans and build a loyal following for your label. However, it’s important to remember that building a brand takes time and effort, and success is not guaranteed. Learning the business side of music: When you start your own record label, you will learn a lot about the business side of music. This includes things like marketing, promotion, distribution, and finance. This knowledge can be invaluable if you ever decide to sell your label or if you want to work in the music industry in another capacity. Networking opportunities: When you start your own record label, you will meet a lot of interesting people in the music industry, including artists, managers, promoters, and other label owners. These networking opportunities can be very helpful if you want to promote your label and its artists. However, it’s important to remember that not all the people you meet will be helpful, and you must be careful who you trust. Sense of accomplishment: When you start your own record label, and it is successful, you will feel great accomplishment. You will know that you have achieved something that is very difficult to do, and you will have helped to create something that will have a lasting impact on the music industry. Risk: Starting your own record label is a risky business venture. There is no guarantee of success, and you could lose a lot of money if you are not careful. You need to be prepared to put in a lot of hard work and make a lot of sacrifices. Time commitment: Starting your own record label is a very time-consuming venture. You will need to be prepared to put in long hours and make a lot of personal sacrifices. If you are unwilling to commit the time and effort, you will not likely be successful. FAQs What is a Record Label, and Why Should I Start One? A record label is a company that markets and promotes music and artists. Starting a record label allows you to have control over the production, distribution, and promotion of the music, providing a platform for new and existing talent. What Are the Legal Requirements for Starting a Record Label? Legal requirements can differ depending on the location, but they typically involve registering the business, acquiring the necessary licenses and permits, and ensuring adherence to copyright laws. How Much Capital is Required to Start a Record Label? The initial capital required can vary widely depending on the scale of the label. It can start from a few thousand dollars for a small independent label to millions for a large-scale operation. How Can I Find Artists to Sign to My Label? Finding artists can be done through networking, attending live shows, social media scouting, and collaboration with other industry professionals. Building relationships with musicians and understanding their needs is key to attracting talent. What Kind of Business Model Should I Choose for My Record Label? The business model varies based on the label’s objectives and available resources. Some labels prioritize digital distribution, whereas others may concentrate on physical sales. Additionally, hybrid models are prevalent, addressing diverse market needs. How Do I Market and Promote the Music on My Label? Marketing strategies can encompass social media promotion, press releases, music videos, live performances, and collaborations with influencers. It’s essential to understand the target audience to ensure effective promotion. What Are the Common Challenges in Running a Record Label, and How Can I Overcome Them? Common challenges include financial management, legal compliance, artist relations, and staying current with industry trends. Continuous learning, careful planning, and collaboration with experienced professionals can help in overcoming these challenges. Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Record Label" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Worried about getting canceled? There’s now insurance policy for that. Insurance agency Samphire Risk is rolling out “cancel culture” insurance for celebrities and execs afraid of social media backlash, according to a report from the Financial Times. London-based Samphire already insures high-value clients against extortion, kidnap, hostage-crises, terrorism and travel to dangerous countries. Now, it’s adding cancellation to the list. The policy, called Preempt and also available to businesses, gives crisis management communications services designed to help the “canceled” minimize the damage done. For 60 days, a team will go to battle against any negative press across social media and traditional media. There’s also a 24/7 hotline, perfect for when you fire off a rogue tweet at 2 a.m. and need emergency damage control. Additionally, the policy provides a team of researchers and analysts who will help flag potential reputational risks before they blow up in your face. “Sharing or liking a tweet can bring the whole world down on you,” Mark Borkowski, a veteran PR boss who designed the policy alongside risk partner RepuTitan, told the FT. “There are a lot of anxious people. The cancel button is the new guillotine [and] one mistake is your epitaph. It’s too easy to take a position on things  . . .  without being thoughtful.” What’s your good reputation worth? The policy isn’t just about PR crises; it also covers modern digital threats like misinformation, deepfakes, extortion, blackmail, and even family-related risks. Borkowski said the policy was not designed for people who had broken the law or who were guilty of wrongdoing, but for those worried that their words could be twisted or taken out of context. Premiums are calculated based on wealth, annual earnings, and a deep dive into a client’s past behavior and social media activity. In other words, the more controversial your digital footprint, the higher the price tag. In the age of cancel culture, the appeal is understandable. Just days ago, Selena Gomez deleted a tearful video about President Trump’s ICE deportations after being hit with social media backlash. Meanwhile, Justin Baldoni is currently is currently fighting for his reputation online over Blake Lively’s It Ends With Us lawsuit and damning allegations about his on-set behavior. At the same time, the pendulum seems to be swinging back to a time where online, anything goes. Elon Musk has turned X into a megaphone for his far-right politics, while Meta is currently undoing content moderation across Facebook and Instagram. For those who remain cautious, the chance at some extra protection against keyboard warriors may seem like a savvy investment. Or—some free advice—if you have nothing nice to say, just don’t say anything. View the full article

AI-generated content isn’t as simple to spot as old-fashioned “spun” or plagiarised content. Most AI-generated text could be considered original, in some sense—it isn’t copy-pasted from somewhere else on the internet. But as it turns out, we’re building an AI…Read more ›View the full article

The best SEO blogs include Semrush, Backlinko, Detailed, and Search Engine Land. View the full article

Google has a new Search Labs feature named Ask for me. Ask for me will have Google call businesses for you, to figure out the cost of the service and when it can be scheduled for you. It is like that Duplex feature we saw years ago, where Google would try to schedule a restaurant reservation for you.View the full article

London court gives Mohammed Zina three months to pay the amount that is available from current assetsView the full article

Recently, the IRS realized that it owes $2.4 billion total in COVID stimulus payments to about one million taxpayers, with a maximum payment of $1,400. If you’re eligible for a stimulus check, you don’t have to do anything to receive it: The IRS is sending out honest-to-goodness windfalls to a million Americans. Unlike your tax refund—which is a portion of your salary being returned to you—no one is likely to wag a finger at you for getting a stimulus check. But that doesn’t necessarily make it easy to figure out what to spend your stimulus money on. If you’re looking for good uses for your stimulus money, here are several strategies that can help you make the most of your money. Put it someplace safe while you decide Getting an unexpected $1,400 is the kind of financial boon that is both smaller and larger than it seems. It’s a small enough windfall that you can easily spend it all without even noticing until it’s gone. But it’s a large enough amount of money that you will kick yourself when you accidentally spend it without thinking. That’s why your first order of business—if you don’t already know exactly what you plan to do with that IRS stimulus check money—is to put it somewhere you can’t fritter it away by accident. The taxpayers receiving a paper check may want to deposit that bad boy directly into a savings account, while anyone getting their stimulus via direct deposit may want to transfer the money to a savings account as soon as it clears their checking account. The longer it stays in your checking account, the more likely it is that it will be spent accidentally. And the whole point of an unexpected windfall is to enjoy it—or at least let it make your life better. Be kind to your future self This is the point in the article where every financial writer is duty bound to advise you to pay down high-interest debt with your IRS stimulus check. And that is excellent, if boring, advice. If you are struggling with high-interest credit cards, student loans, or any other debt that makes you feel like you’re drowning, using stimulus money to help dig yourself out of that debt hole is a fantastic idea. This kind of debt paydown advice is about improving things for your future self. Sending a big payment to your credit card will make it easier and less stressful for future you to get that thing paid off. That’s a great reason to use your stimulus money for debt payoff. But that is not the only way this money can show kindness to your future self: you can also set the money aside for retirement. (This, by the way, is another suggestion every financial writer feels obligated to include in articles of this kind.) These suggestions are common because so many Americans are overwhelmed by debt and have underfunded retirement plans. If that describes your situation, please do consider using at least part of your stimulus money to ease your future financial stress. A simple thought exercise But one of the best ways to figure out how to treat your future self kindly is to just ask. Consider this thought exercise: Imagine your future self enjoying an easy, low-stress day. Think through what you would need to make such a relaxing future a reality. For instance, someone with chronic back pain might schedule several massage sessions for their busiest work season, making it easier to handle work stress. Another individual might upgrade the elderly laptop they use every day, which would improve their daily stress levels. Remember, you’re checking in with your future self, rather than telling yourself that future you happens to want exactly the same unnecessary gadget that current you is craving. You want to figure out what your future self will be glad you did today. You may still decide to send the money to your credit card or 401(k), since that’s what will most relieve your future self’s anxiety, but going through the thought exercise can give future you a chance to weigh in. Treat yourself There is nothing wrong with using your stimulus money to buy yourself something flashy—with the caveat that paying down debt or investing for retirement might be the “smarter” choice. This is, in some ways, an easy decision, since everyone can easily come up with ways to treat themselves with unexpected money. But you might want to consider some of the less common ways you might treat yourself with this money, including: Buy yourself some budgeting slack Many monthly services offer discounts to customers who pay annually instead of monthly. You might be able to use your stimulus to make an annual payment for auto insurance, streaming services, gym memberships, or tuition. If you use your IRS check to make an annual payment to one of your service providers, you will free up the monthly amount you’ve been paying. While you’re at it, set up an automatic transfer of a portion of your monthly savings into a savings account—and build up the reserves to prepay again next year. You’ll get the benefit of a roomier budget—that doesn’t constrict again once the year comes to an end. Be a kid again One of the quotidian tragedies of adulthood is losing touch with the things we loved as a child. Not only does no one ask grownups what their favorite dinosaur is, but we often put aside the activities that we used to spend hours on. Since you’ve already had a conversation with your future self, sit down with 8-year-old you and ask them what they want to do. Consider spending some of your stimulus money on whatever activities the child version of you misses most. Donate Making charitable donations and treating yourself may seem mutually exclusive. But some of the headiest emotional highs come from being generous to others. Giving some of your stimulus money to a cause you care deeply about will be something that sticks with you, which is the best kind of treat. Spending with intention It’s not often that we get to enjoy a gift of money with no strings attached. With some strategic thinking, the 1 million Americans receiving a stimulus check from the IRS this month have an opportunity to really enjoy the money. To start, taxpayers should put the money somewhere where they can’t easily spend it while they decide what to do with the dough. These stimulus payments are a decent windfall, but not so big that you can’t accidentally spend it all without thinking. To figure out what to spend the money on, be kind to your future self. In many cases, that might mean paying down debt or investing for retirement. But thinking through what your future self would want can help you identify the best way to spend the money to relieve your future stress. Of course, treating yourself is always an option with unexpected money. But instead of buying the thingamabob you’ve had your eye on, consider some less common treats, like prepaying for a service—and gaining some slack in your monthly budget, indulging in your inner child’s favorite, neglected activities, or donating money to a cause close to your heart. Spending your stimulus intentionally is the best way to get the most out of the money. View the full article

Using AI when executing your content strategy can streamline research, brainstorming, and optimization. View the full article

Branded is a weekly column devoted to the intersection of marketing, business, design, and culture. Multiple companies, from Walmart to Meta and McDonald’s to John Deere, have announced they are scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in recent months. But Target’s recent news that it, too, is rolling back such efforts is attracting more attention than most, much of it critical of the retailer’s apparent retreat. If there’s a backlash to the DEI backlash, its main target may be Target. While reiterating a “commitment to inclusion,” the company nonetheless announced it is “concluding” certain goals and initiatives tied to racial equity in hiring, and that it will no longer participate in external surveys from the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, the Human Rights Campaign, and other groups. It also said it would rename its “supplier diversity” program, apparently shifting its focus away from explicitly courting brands with diverse ownership. The moves even raised questions about the Minneapolis company’s philanthropic commitments made in the wake of George Floyd’s killing in 2020. Calls for a boycott were nearly immediate, and the Twin Cities Pride parade announced it would no longer accept Target as a sponsor (and swiftly received donations that topped what Target had previously pledged). This reaction has puzzled some on social media, given how many companies also seem to be distancing themselves from DEI. “Why is there so much outrage and dialogue about Target specifically?” asked content creator Kiandria Demone on Threads. “Are people not aware that they are one of many?” Part of the answer is Target’s prior reputation. “People are angrier at Target because, for the most part, they’ve been on the right side of history on a lot of issues,” as one post put it. The big-box retailer—while definitely not an overtly ideological brand in the vein of Ben & Jerry’s or Patagonia—has over the years established a fairly progressive image. A 2018 Morning Consult study of brand polarization found Target did better than Walmart with Democratic-leaning voters, that Target shoppers were more likely to support gay marriage and trans rights and to oppose a border wall. The 2024 Axios Harris Poll ranking the reputations of 100 of the most visible brands in America counted Target among those “viewed as skewed to the left.” A Target Pride display, ca. 2016 [Photo: Christopher Dilts/Bloomberg/Getty Images] Some of this may be attributed to the chain having more urban locations and focusing on a younger potential clientele. But in particular, Target’s high-profile Pride Month promotions and merchandising sent a message about its read on the culture—and where it wanted its brand to be. While hardly strident, it telegraphed inclusive values as good for business. In 2022, one brand research agency named Target among the top 10 brands for LGBTQ+ consumers. “I know that focus on diversity and inclusion and equity has fueled much of our growth over the last nine years,” Target CEO Brian Cornell said in 2023. “I’m really proud of the work we’ve done in the DE&I space.” That said, at least some of Target’s progressive reputation arguably comes from a counterintuitive source: its conservative critics. In 2023, the company’s Pride merch inspired fervent calls for a boycott from the “anti-woke” mob, looking to make Target into the new Bud Light. Some hostile shoppers knocked over merchandise displays in stores and harassed Target workers, and in some cases the retailer moved or reduced displays and even removed some items. City of Miami police officers keep an eye on protesters outside of a local Target store on June 1, 2023. [Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images] Along the way, coverage from Fox News and other conservative media treated Target as a kind of culture-war punching bag, blurring its long-cultivated image as a contemporary and forward-looking mass retailer into a vaguely elite and out-of-touch brand. That narrative seems even harder to escape with the new Trump administration bent on making DEI the most demonized acronym in public life. And Target, which last year scaled back Pride promotions, has seen actual sales and its share price struggle, even as rival Walmart thrives. The upshot is that Target’s seeming capitulation to the anti-DEI wave may seem like a bellwether—which may be particularly disappointing to some because it feels like such a thorough reversal. But if that feeling of betrayal is fueling a backlash to the DEI backlash, there is one more twist to consider: a growing call from Black-owned brands sold at Target, thanks to past diversity efforts, asking their customers to show support with a Target “buycott.” In other words, those brands don’t want Target shoppers to boycott the retailer over its end of diversity efforts, but instead to shop Target—and specifically products from Black-owned brands sold at the retailer where shelf space is hard won. “Target is not going to remove any of our products if they’re performing well,” April Showers, founder of Afro Unicorn, told USA Today. “So, we’re saying, be strategic with your dollar.” After all, maybe the best way to prove diversity is good for business is by showing what consumers will buy, and by the bundle, not what they won’t. View the full article

Master These 28 SEO Skills to Advance Your Career. View the full article

Over 15 years of working with leaders, I’ve noticed a clear pattern: Burnout often stems from what I call the Superman leadership style. Many cultures hold tightly to this image of a leader as strong, confident, and capable of fixing anything. This ideal isn’t just a societal expectation—it’s one that leaders impose on themselves. But striving to be a “Superman” leader is a recipe for burnout, because it’s both unrealistic and unattainable. Burnout, as highlighted by the World Health Organization, is an occupational phenomenon. It’s marked by exhaustion, reduced professional effectiveness, and a sense of detachment from one’s work. And leaders that fit the Superman mold are more prone to these symptoms because of the unrelenting pressure they face on a daily basis. Through my work with burned-out leaders, I’ve identified three internal taboos that often define this Superman style of leadership. These operate beneath the surface but have a significant impact. Recognizing and challenging them could be the first step toward a more sustainable approach to leadership. 1. The taboo against not knowing Superman rules dictate that leaders must always have the answers. A senior executive I worked with felt overwhelmed when her team, going through challenges, experienced significant anxiety and looked to her for guarantees that everything would turn out fine. Adding to the burden, higher-ups also placed similar expectations on her. Over time, she realized that much of her burnout stemmed from trying to project certainty in situations where there was none, especially in a fast-changing environment. She reflected, “I thought I was being paid to know the answers. I felt I had to act like I knew because that’s how I understood my role.” Another leader shared: “I feel like I have to know what to do in every situation. Admitting I don’t know feels like failing.” This taboo pressures leaders to constantly appear in control, but false certainty in such an unpredictable world is dangerous. As award-winning author Maggie Jackson noted in her book Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure, that you need to embrace uncertainty during times of flux and a remarkable antidote to narrow-mindedness. 2. The taboo against losing control Imagine a doctor claiming they could cure every patient, no matter the circumstances. Absurd, right? Yet many leaders take on a similar mindset, believing they need to control every outcome to prove their worth. One executive I worked with shared: “When two key team members left in one month, I couldn’t stop blaming myself. If something goes wrong, it’s always my fault.” The Superman mindset requires leaders to maintain tight control over their teams, their processes, and their outcomes. It creates an illusion that you’re responsible for everything, even if circumstances are beyond your control. These kinds of leaders see mistakes, failures, and setbacks as personal flaws. Another leader I coached described how he felt after a product launch failed due to market conditions: “I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was my fault, even though our data showed the market just wasn’t ready.” When leaders cling to the illusion of control, their teams become less proactive, waiting for orders rather than taking initiative. A simple exercise of distinguishing what’s within their control and what isn’t can help leaders release unnecessary pressure and empower their teams. 3. The taboo against vulnerability One leader put it bluntly: “If you want to climb the ladder, you keep your problems to yourself.” Superman leaders believe they need to appear fine at all times, they need to be confident, energized, and unshakable. Vulnerability and mental health remain taboo topics for many leaders, despite growing awareness of their importance. But keeping up appearances comes at a cost. Leaders who bottle up their struggles often miss out on the trust and connection that come from being open and authentic. Melissa Doman, in her book Yes, You Can Talk About Mental Health at Work, pushes back against the outdated belief that mental health issues are purely personal and don’t belong at work. She argues that mental health should be treated just like physical health, and it’s crucial to break the stigma surrounding mental health discussions at the office. A VP I worked with struggled to connect with her team until she shared a personal story about navigating a difficult divorce and the emotional toll it took on her. Her openness transformed her team’s perception of her. One team member later told her, “It was the first time I saw you as a real person.” The impact of Superman leadership Here’s the reality: Superman leaders thrive on the outside but struggle on the inside. They operate at maximum energy output, depleting their resources quickly. And it’s not just about their personal well-being. Superman leaders often stifle their teams without realizing it. By taking on all the responsibility and keeping everything tightly controlled, they create an environment where others are afraid to take risks, propose new ideas, or admit mistakes. Another perspective on leadership Burnout doesn’t have to be the cost of leadership. Leaders who let go of these taboos—admitting when they don’t know everything, accepting that not everything is within their control, and embracing vulnerability—often find themselves leading with more energy, clarity, and effectiveness. If you’ve been operating as a Superman leader, consider reflecting on the following questions: Is all this pressure really necessary? Chances are, some of it is self-imposed and entirely avoidable. What would happen if you let go of what’s no longer serving you? After all, leadership isn’t about being Superman. It’s about creating a sustainable approach that empowers both you and your team to thrive. View the full article