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Google Ads recommendations often spark debate among advertisers. While some are highly situational and require careful consideration, others can actively harm your account’s performance. However, some recommendations offer valuable insights or significantly improve results when applied effectively. This article explores the most common recommendations: Those that should be ignored because they typically do more harm than good. Those worth evaluating for the insights they provide. Those that are almost always worth using to optimize your campaigns. Recommendations I always ignore Some recommendations are so poor that they are instant dismissals. On rare occasions, one might be useful. However, spending hours looking through them all to find a single good one is a waste of time. Optimize your budgets Google is good at math. Their automated bidding generally works well. However, it seems they can’t do math regarding budgets. Raising your budget by $46,200 per week to receive $35,600 more in conversion value is a quick way to go out of business. After reviewing all 50 of these recommendations, I found that every single one would have caused a significant drop in ROAS or doubled the CPAs. In some cases, the CPAs were 10 times higher. That’s why I always ignore budget recommendations. Add broad match keywords Broad match has its place, but only after carefully evaluating your account. No one should blindly use this match type because it was a recommendation. If your lost impression share budget is greater than 10%, and you primarily use exact and phrase match, adding broad match usually worsens your performance. Your bid strategy dictates how well broad match will work for a campaign. You must evaluate your bid strategy before using broad match. Choosing to use broad match is decided by performance, bid methods, and budget. Your overall strategy will determine your choice to use or skip broad match, not an automated recommendation. Dig deeper: Automated bidding in Google Ads: How to get the best results Remove redundant keywords At first glance, this seems like a good recommendation. You have almost the same keyword multiple times, so removing the duplicates can make your account easier to manage. However, removing these keywords causes Performance Max to trump your search campaigns. Since search campaigns have higher conversion rates than PMax campaigns, this recommendation often results in fewer conversions. This is another recommendation you can always ignore as it can only hurt your performance. Dig deeper: Why advertisers should reassess Google Ads recommendations Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. Always evaluate Some Google Ads recommendations are always worthy of evaluation. These are my favorite recommendations that cause me to examine the account in more detail. Remove conflicting negative keywords Keyword conflicts occur when one of your negative keywords is blocking one of your keywords from showing. These are always worth fixing, though fixing doesn’t always mean removing the negative keyword. Sometimes, it involves pausing the keyword instead. Unfortunately, Google doesn’t check negative keyword lists for conflicts. In about 90% of accounts I review, lists older than five years contain at least one conflict, and sometimes even thousands. Many people ignore this recommendation because they want to temporarily block a keyword or aren’t sure if they want to show for it or not. However, these keywords can still receive impressions and clicks. If the search term matches your keyword and the negative keyword isn’t in the search term, the keyword can still show an ad. This means you are showing for keyword variations but not the keyword itself. These should always be examined and action taken to pause the keyword or remove the negative keyword. Make your headlines and description more unique I don’t care about ad strength since lower ad strength ads often outperform higher ad strength ads. I also ignore the recommendation to add more headlines. Fewer headlines reduce the potential combinations, increase the data for each ad combination, and often improve your CTR and conversion rates. However, most of the RSA recommendations are useful. The recommendation to make your headlines and descriptions more unique often means you: Have too many headlines related to the keywords in the ad group. Don’t have enough CTAs, USPs, or benefit statements in your ads. Adding a variety of assets generally improves both CTR and conversion rates. When you see the recommendation to make your headlines more unique, examine your headline assets. Then, make the necessary adjustments to ensure you are using a variety of headlines and not just headlines related to your keywords. If you get a recommendation to include popular keywords in your headlines but already have two or three headlines with keywords from your ad group, it may indicate your ad group has too many disparate keywords. In this case, consider splitting your ad group into smaller ones. Review your keywords and check if your headlines match them well. If some keywords aren’t well represented in the ad, move them to a new ad group with more relevant headlines. Always use Some recommendations are always worth using. These are usually related to missing keywords, ads, or extensions. Add extensions to your ads Accounts grow and change, and it’s easy to miss something. Almost everyone wants to use the sitelink and callout ad assets. When I see this recommendation, I generally add the appropriate ad extension. There are some exceptions, such as a recommendation to add the call extension to an ecommerce account. Most accounts want to use several extensions, so it’s worth examining when you see a missing extension recommendation. Disapprovals Ad extensions or ads that have been disapproved don’t show. It’s a good idea to examine your disapprovals and fix them so they can be displayed. These are straightforward recommendations. View what is disapproved, fix it, and resubmit it for approval. The best way to see your top recommendations The repair category offers the most useful recommendations, but the card view makes it difficult to identify which campaigns or accounts need the most attention. Switching to the table view provides a clearer, at-a-glance overview of all your campaigns or accounts. The table view will show your campaign or account and the number of ad groups without ads, keywords, or other disapprovals. The table is highly efficient, allowing you to spot issues, address them, and move on to the next campaign. Among Google’s recommendations, the repair category is the most valuable to review regularly. Decoding Google Ads recommendations for smarter ad management Overall, Google Ads recommendations often have a poor reputation, as many seem designed to push advertisers to spend more or surrender control over their accounts. This has led many advertisers to tune them out entirely. However, hidden within these recommendations are valuable insights that can genuinely improve performance. The next time you encounter a recommendation, don’t dismiss it outright. Instead, evaluate it carefully to see how it could benefit your account. View the full article

The next phase of AI evolution looks set to be focused around agents: AI bots that can not only chat to you and draw pictures, but also carry out tasks on your behalf. These new AI tools won't just be able to tell you about the best hotels close to your next vacation destination—they'll be able to make the reservation for you. These kinds of multimodal agents are being worked on by Google, OpenAI, and others, and now Perplexity has announced Perplexity Assistant for Android (as per The Verge, Perplexity says iOS doesn't give apps the necessary hooks into the operating system for an iPhone version to be possible right now). You can find the assistant in the main Perplexity app for Android, and it's available to use whether you're using Perplexity for free or paying for a subscription. You'll see a pop-up ad for Perplexity Assistant in the app which you can tap on to enable it, or you can find it by tapping your profile picture (top left), then Enable assistant. During the setup process, you'll be asked to set Perplexity Assistant as the default assistant on Android, instead of Google Assistant or Google Gemini. This is the same process as it is for setting any other default assistant, and you'll be directed to the right screen: It means you can launch Perplexity Assistant with whatever the assistant shortcut is (like a long-press on the power button). When the assistant is active, you can use your voice to interact with it or give it commands, or tap the keyboard icon in the lower right corner to type instead. There are no settings to manage, but there is a button in the lower left corner for switching to camera mode, which lets you ask Perplexity Assistant about anything in your surroundings. You'll need to set Perplexity Assistant as your default assistant. Credit: Lifehacker What you can do with Perplexity Assistant Perplexity hasn't been overly forthcoming in terms of what you can actually do with its new assistant, but it has mentioned booking dinner (via OpenTable), playing songs (in Spotify and YouTube), calling cabs (through Uber), drafting emails, and setting reminders. You can see a few examples here. It's worth experimenting with to see what it can and can't do on your phone. You can ask for directions to a good coffee shop nearby, for example: Perplexity Assistant will search the web for recommendations, ask you to make a pick, then load up Google Maps. It's debatable whether that's any faster or more convenient than just doing the whole process through Google Maps, but it works reliably well. I was also able to call up songs and playlists in Spotify, though again, Spotify's built-in search tools do all this pretty well anyway. It's not an omnipotent digital assistant yet, however—if you ask Perplexity Assistant to order you something on Amazon, it'll just direct you to the relevant listings pages. Spotify is one of the apps Perplexity Assistant can control. Credit: Lifehacker Another test I ran was getting Perplexity Assistant to draft an email apologizing for being late, and with a task like this, the generative AI capabilities can be useful. The assistant found the right contact, composed a short email with my apologies, and loaded a draft in the Gmail app, ready to go—though if you really are sorry about a recent lack of punctuality, it's probably a better idea to actually write out the apology yourself. It's more evidence of where AI assistants are heading, but they're going to need to be granted the relevant hooks into other apps—like OpenTable and Spotify—in order to work properly. They're also going to need to be reliable and accurate enough to gain the trust of users, which has traditionally been a problem for AI: You don't want your AI-booked dinner recommendations to be for the wrong week or in the wrong city, for example. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Super Bowl LIX kicks off on Sunday, Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. ET. This year, the game is being broadcast by Fox with a pregame show starting at 2 p.m. ET and game coverage at 6 p.m. ET. Even if you don't have cable, there are a few ways, both paid and free, that you can watch all the action live from Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Watch free on TubiThe game—as well as pre- and post-game coverage—will be streaming on Fox-owned Tubi for free, with 4K available on some devices (including Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, and Apple TV). You do need to sign up for a Tubi account, but no credit card is required. Tubi also includes the NFL Channel for supplemental Super Bowl content. Sign up for a live TV streaming serviceThere are a handful of streaming services with live TV that include Fox. Before signing up, check the channel listings for your zip code to confirm Fox is available in your local market. DirectTV Stream: $87 per month for the Entertainment plan, 5-day free trial FuboTV: Currently $60 per month for the Essential plan with promo, 7-day free trial for new customers Hulu + Live TV: $83 per month, 3-day free trial (includes ads on Hulu) YouTube TV: Currently $73 per month with promo, 5-day free trial for new users Sling TV (in limited markets): $23 per month When signing up for a free trial, make sure you know when you'll be billed for a paid subscription and cancel before your trial expires. The game will be available in 4K for FuboTV and YouTube TV subscribers (included in the free trials but at an additional fee or at a higher tier with paid plans). The Spanish-language broadcast will be on Fox Deportes and Telemundo, which are also available on most live TV streaming services. Watch over the airAnother free (ish) way to get the game is with over-the-air (OTA) TV. Of course, this requires you to invest in a digital TV antenna and have a place to put it that gets good reception. You should check the FCC's reception map to see what signals are available in your area and try your antenna out before game day. Your mileage may vary, so if you want a stress-free watch experience, this probably isn't the best option. Other ways to watch the Super BowlYou can also watch the game via the Fox Sports app if you already pay for Fox with a cable or satellite package or one of the live TV streaming services listed above. The game will also stream through the NFL+ mobile app—a subscription costs $7 per month. View the full article

More small businesses are now online, which requires shipping items to their customers near and far. This means ensuring the safety of each item during shipping with suitable packing material. Bubble mailers protect the item you ship, so they arrive at their destination safely. Another benefit of using a bubble mailer is that they are an easy and cost-effective way for your business to protect your merchandise. While boxes provide added protection, bubble mailers can offer similar protection for small items without added cost. The key is to ship items with bubble mailing bags that do not require heavy-duty protection because they have their limitations. Maybe you’ve spent hours researching the type of mailer to use, take a look at our list of the best bubble mailer for the next time you need to ship an item to your customers. Bubble Mailer Vs. Poly Mailer Bubble and poly mailer bags have become increasingly popular in the eCommerce shipping industry, and for good reason. They offer a cost-effective, lightweight, and more durable option compared to cardboard boxes, as they occupy less space in carrier trucks, which helps reduce shipping costs. However, what are the main differences between bubble mailers and poly mailers? Poly mailers? Poly mailers are polyethylene plastic envelopes. They withstand dampness, stretch while resisting tearing, and are extremely light. They are popular shipping materials. Bubble mailers? Bubble mailers are paper envelopes with cushioning on the inside to protect things during transit. Like other poly mailers, they come in a variety of sizes and colors. However, they are bulkier, less flexible, and more expensive than poly mailers. Bubble Mailer Vs Bubble Wrap Select a high-quality bubble mailer to guarantee the safety of delicate items or to provide added peace of mind when mailing. Below is a brief overview of the distinctions between bubble mailers and bubble wrap: Bubble Wrap Bubble wrap is a flexible, transparent plastic material designed for packing fragile items. It features regularly spaced, protruding air-filled hemispheres (bubbles) that offer cushioning and protection for delicate objects. Bubble Mailer Bubble mailers are made of paper on the outside and lined with Bubble Wrap on the inside. They provide additional protection for fragile things. The size of the bubbles will vary based on the product. The bigger the bubbles, the more secure your cargo. (And the stronger the pop!) How Does Bubble Mailer Protect Your Package? Your items are susceptible to bumps, drops, moisture, and tears during transportation. Bubble and padded mailers will protect your fragile from damage during transit. The bubble envelopes are made of bubble wrap on the inside, which provides air-filled cushioning in the event of a bump or a fall. The larger the air bubbles, the more protected the items will be during transportation. Best Bubble Mailers Getting your products to your customers without any dings, dents, and damage is absolutely critical. For a long time now, many sellers have used bubble wrap and mailers to protect delicate items during transit. However, for ultimate protection, you need to make sure you get the best mailers. Here is a breakdown of some of the best options on Amazon. UCGOU Black Poly Bubble Mailer Pack Top Pick: This is one of the most reviewed bubble mailer products on Amazon, with 10,261 ratings. The UCGOU mailer is opaque, even though it is black compared to other mailers. This feature hides the items you have in the envelope. The mailers are self-sealing, and the line of the bubbles is 80gsm or (grams per square meter). UCGOU 6×10 Inch Black Poly Mailers Padded Envelope Shipping Bags 50pcs Buy on Amazon Metronic Poly Mailers Runner Up: The Metronic bubble mailing bags are made with multilayered polyethylene sheets to protect their content. The self-adhesive envelope has a tamperproof seal, so you cannot open it without any visible signs. Best of all, Metronic offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Metronic 25pcs Poly Mailers 10.5×16 Inch Padded Envelope #5 Bubble Lined Poly Mailer Self Seal Classic BlueBuy on Amazon Buy on Amazon Scotch Bubble Mailer Best Value: This bubble mailer comes from Scotch, a brand known for its packing materials. This kraft-paper mailer has a durable barrier to protect your item from bubbles. The company says the bubbles have superior burst strength to resist punctures or tears. Scotch Bubble Mailer, 10.5 x 15.25-Inches, Size #5, 25-Pack Buy on Amazon GSSUSA White Poly Mailers The GSSUSA bubble mailers feature end-to-end self-adhesive tapes that provide a secure, waterproof seal. Available in five colors and three sizes (4×8, 6×10, 8.5×12), these mailers are designed to meet your needs. Additionally, the company guarantees 100% satisfaction with every purchase. GSSUSA White Poly Mailers 6×10 Padded Mailer #0 Shipping Envelopes Self Sealing Buy on Amazon Sales4Less #5 Padded Mailers Made from polypropylene, the Sales4Less bubble mailers have 3/16” bubbles to cushion the items you put in the mailers. Once you seal it with the peel-and-seal self-adhesive strip, it provides a puncture, tampers, and water-resistant container. The company also offers 100% satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Sales4Less #5 Bubble Mailers 10.5X16 Inches Padded Envelope Mailer Waterproof Pack of 100 Buy on Amazon Fuxury #5 Inch Bubble Mailer Fuxury provides mailers in eight vibrant colors. Constructed from heavy-duty 100% plastic, these mailers utilize hot-pressing technology for enhanced durability. Each envelope features cellular air layers and 360° strong air bubble technology for added protection. Additionally, a white inner liner is included to safeguard the privacy of the contents. Fuxury stands behind its products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Fuxury #5 10.5×16 Inch Forest Green Bubble Mailer Self Seal Padded Envelope Pack of 25 Buy on Amazon LIMNUO Poly Mailers This poly mailer line comes in three colors and three different sizes (4×8,6×10,8.5×12) at an affordable price. Made from polypropylene material, it will not add to your shipping cost while protecting your item inside from moisture. LIMNUO 25pcs Pink Poly Mailers 8.5×12 Inch Padded Envelope Self Seal Envelope Bag Buy on Amazon iMBAPrice Poly Bubble Mailer – 500 Pack Keep your delicate items protected during transit with the iMBAPrice mailer. These padded mailers are lightweight and are made from a durable, moisture-free, multi-layered blend of polyethylene film. The adhesive seal provides a reliable, tamper-proof enclosure. The thick bubbles provide extra cushioning, keeping your items safe. The non-transparent outer provides extra privacy for your items. iMBAPrice Poly Bubble Mailer Buy on Amazon Offitecture Kraft Paper Envelopes – 48 Pack Whenever you need small but also good-looking kraft paper mailers, consider the Offitecture mailers. These mailers are lightweight, and they come with a strong adhesive seal that’s reliable and tamper-evident. The exterior size measures 4×8 inches and 4×7 inches on the inside. This kraft paper mailer is ideal for shipping small, fragile items. Offitecture Kraft Padded Mailing Envelopes Buy on Amazon Metronic Bubble Mailers – 50 Pack For fancy but reliable shipping mailers, look no further than the Metronic envelopes. These durable mailers are puncture and tear-resistant. They also feature a 360-degree strong air bubble technology that offers great padding and added protection for your fragile items. Like all other mailing envelopes that are worth their salt, these beautiful envelopes use a tamper-proof adhesive seal. These envelopes are available in nine different prints and colors ranging from cherry to flamingo. Metronic Bubble Mailers – 50 Pack Buy on Amazon Metronic Plain Color Mailers – 50 Pack Metronic has certainly cut a name for itself for creating truly durable and reliable padded mailing envelopes. Like its more colorful counterparts above, these plain color mailers are tear-resistant and puncture-proof. They are waterproof and also use a tamperproof seal for additional protection. The inner is lined with an 80gsm bubble with unique cellular layers, and the 360-degree bubble technology easily absorbs shock during transit. These padded mailing envelopes are available in eight different colors, ranging from black to hot pink. Metronic Plain Color Mailers – 50 Pack Buy on Amazon TINNIVI Bubble Mailers – 30 Pack Available in three different sizes, the TINNIVI padded shipping bags are among the best shipping envelopes. These bags are made of thick and durable materials that are hard to tear or puncture. Like any other good mailer, they are lightweight and also waterproof. The opaque materials are also a great privacy ally and this is also complemented with a tamper-proof seal. TINNIVI Bubble Mailers – 30 Pack Buy on Amazon How to Choose the Best Bubble Mailer There is an overwhelming amount of padded mailing envelopes in the market today. They come in several different dimensions, materials, colors, and prices. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying bubble packaging envelopes. Size This is one of the most critical aspects. Note that the shipping envelope should always be larger than the object or document that you are sending so nothing is folded or crushed. Most mailers include their interior size (the usable space) and exterior size (largely determines your shipping costs. Your contents should fit easily but securely within the packaging mailer Self-seal mailers To ensure it stays closed, bubble bags should self-seal. Besides, who wants to lick envelopes? Make sure that your kraft paper mailer or bubble-padded mailer comes with a strong sealing adhesive seal. Paper or plastic Paper or plastic? The choice depends on the fragility of the items you are shipping. While Kraft paper is typically thick and durable, it does not hold up well in high-moisture conditions. If you’re worried about potential water damage, it may be best to opt for plastic mailers. Branding and Color The bubble mailing bags come in a variety of colors. If you are looking for a little more flair, go with the custom mailers that fit your branding. However, if you want a professional look, plain colors are a good bet. They are also super easy to customize. Eco-friendly Bubble Mailers There are a ton of eco-friendly mailers that are made from recycled materials. Considering the number of mail sent out on a daily basis, these envelopes help to reduce the overall impact on the environment. Bulky Bubble Mailers If you are regularly shipping items to your customers, buying padded mailing bags in bulk can save you a lot of time and money. Most of the mailing bags in our review are available in large packs. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Packing Peanuts for Your Business Shipping Needs Top Commercial Microwaves for Your Business Best Office Floor Mats Best Baby Changing Stations for Your Business Image: amazon This article, "Best Bubble Mailers for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Yahoo appears to be testing some new AI related features within Yahoo Search. In fact, some are seeing Yahoo show a banner at the top of Yahoo’s home page that says, “We’re building a new yahoo.com to show more of what’s interesting to you.” The new search features include: AI powered chat AI generated answers within search Note, you need to login to Yahoo to see the new Yahoo Search features. AI chat in Yahoo. For the past week or so, we’ve been seeing signs of Yahoo incorporating AI Chat features in Yahoo Search. Now, we are seeing that more prominently in the Yahoo Search interface. Here are some screenshots from Sachin Patel on X: Here is a screenshot of the message about the new Yahoo and I am told the try now link goes to Yahoo Search: Here is the Yahoo Search home page: The Yahoo Search bar with AI elements built within it: Here are what these AI Chat answers look like: Yahoo AI Generated Answers. Yahoo Search is also incorporating AI generated answers directly in the Yahoo Search results. These seem to be powered by OpenAI and show directly in Yahoo Search, where you see a snippet of the AI generated answer and then can click to expand the answer to show more: Here are more screenshots: Yahoo has introduced AI overviews, but there are no links in the AI overview. They simply provide an answer for users to read. They’ve also added a feedback option—users can like the answer, but if they dislike it, they’re asked to provide feedback.@rustybrick pic.twitter.com/LAsMqOb7kw — Sachin Patel (@SachuPatel53124) January 27, 2025 More information. Is this part of Yahoo’s renewed return to Search from 2023, which we were expecting in 2024. Or is this just some more basic AI licensed services within Yahoo Search. It is hard to tell but we will be watching. Why we care. With all these new AI elements that everyone is rolling out, differentiating search features can be easier than ever before. Here are signs of Yahoo making some of these efforts. As I said, we have been expecting Yahoo to make its comeback to search for a while now and it seems we may be seeing some elements of that. I for one am looking forward to a new Yahoo Search experience. View the full article

In marketing – whether digital or not – we all understand the power of a strong brand. A recognizable brand is vital for earning and keeping attention, driving trust, and building loyalty. On the agency side, this connection is clear: branding influences how we engage clients and deliver value. But how often do we consider the importance of branding within our teams? Establishing and maintaining a strong team brand is just as crucial. A well-defined team identity can foster collaboration, earn the trust of internal stakeholders, and secure advocacy for the team’s work. More importantly, it shifts the focus from individual contributions – often dominated by the leader’s presence – to the team’s collective efforts and shared goals. Creating a team brand involves more than just choosing a name or tagline. It’s about establishing consistency, communicating value, and aligning with your broader organizational goals. With that in mind, here are three key areas to focus on when building a team brand for your in-house or agency SEO team. 1. Brand identity A name is helpful but doesn’t need to be catchy or unique. Something simple like “SEO Group” works well because it: Provides an identity for the team. Clearly describes what the team does. A tagline can be useful but isn’t always necessary. If the team name doesn’t clearly convey its purpose, a tagline can help. For example, a network engineer I worked with often described his role as “Networking for money.” Similarly, “Optimizing websites for money” could make a fitting catchphrase for an SEO team. Logos aren’t usually required, but if you decide to create one, it can be tricky. A team member with artistic skills or generative AI could help, but avoid incorporating elements of the larger company’s branding. This ensures you stay within brand guidelines, especially for documents shared externally. Dig deeper: Why search marketing education is a MUST within companies 2. Consistency Consistency is a cornerstone of effective branding, especially when building a brand within your organization. It’s crucial not only for naming but also for how team members communicate with other teams. Standardizing terminology is particularly helpful. For example, terms like “organic search,” “natural search,” and “unpaid search” all mean the same thing. Choosing one term and having everyone use it ensures clarity and consistency in external communications. When working with outside vendors, require them to adopt your team’s terminology to avoid the need for “translation” and save time. Consistency is equally important in how your team approaches SEO work. While the answer to many SEO questions is often “it depends,” building trust within the team requires everyone to contribute to decisions and fully support them once made. Trust, both internally and externally, can erode quickly if team members act independently of agreed-upon strategies. The same applies to outside agencies. Involve them in team discussions and require them to align with your team’s decisions to ensure consistent approaches to challenges. Dig deeper: How to use SEO education for stakeholder management Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. 3. Unique value proposition A strong brand needs a clear value proposition, which can be challenging to define. While you may not always be competing for attention with other teams, you still need to demonstrate your value to those you collaborate with. Here are a few ways to showcase your team’s worth: Regular reporting based on SEO and business metrics. Email newsletters. Scheduled “office hours.” An intranet page or internal website. Reporting is especially critical, as it highlights what has been lost or gained and what could be achieved by following the team’s recommendations. Through these efforts, you can demonstrate your experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T). You want to build credibility with peers, leaders, supported teams, other business areas, and – most importantly – business leaders. As Jessica Bowman noted in “The Executive SEO Playbook,” it’s nearly impossible for SEO teams to proactively drive work forward without “upfront and consistent, metrics-driven, executive-level support.” Earning that support requires building trust, which is essential in enterprise organizations where competition for resources is often fierce. Dig deeper: How to convince leadership why they can’t ignore SEO Branding for SEO teams: Building trust within organizations Building a brand for your in-house team might seem like a distraction from “real” SEO work. However, because no team can achieve everything alone, a strong brand ensures your value is understood, enabling you to gain the collaboration and resources needed to succeed. View the full article

Meats are muscles. On account of this, they’re not perfectly symmetrical bricks. Different cuts can be tear-dropped, conical, or otherwise shaped asymmetrically with a thick and thin side. But, alas, uneven shapes lead to uneven cooking. The thinner end of a chicken breast can come to temperature relatively quickly compared to the bulbous end that might be nearly two inches thicker. Put an end to partially overcooked, dried-out, rubbery meat parts, and try a technique called “butterflying.” Butterflying is a simple method for modifying a cut of meat by slicing it in half horizontally. You can cut it through completely in this fashion and end up with two thin pieces, or take care not to cut through the other side, and open it like a book. This serves to even-out a cut of meat and extend the surface area. Keep in mind, butterflying doesn’t turn the meat into a perfect rectangle, but rather modifies an extremely asymmetric cut to give it a more even thickness. Butterflying allows for more even exposure to heat, but the increase in surface area serves other functions too. It allows for easier pounding or tenderizing, thorough absorption of flavors through marinating, a more flexible and thin material for roulades, and a shortened cook time. How to butterfly a cut of meatButterflying a cut of meat takes a little getting used to at first, but once you do it a few times, it becomes easy, fast, and deliciously rewarding. Make sure you have a sharp knife, and a stable cutting board. 1. Lay the meat flat on the cutting boardFor an elongated cut of meat, such as a chicken breast, I usually place it so the thickest side is on the right and the point of the breast is pointing at me. The goal is to cut through the thicker side first, we'll be leaving the thinnest side connected so it will end up reflecting the same overall thickness of the other sides. If you’re left-handed, you can reverse the arrangement. I’m right-handed, so the thick side will be on the right. Cut the breast horizontally by starting on the thickest side. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann 2. Begin the cutPlace the knife against the chicken halfway down the thick side, parallel to the cutting board, and use slow strokes to begin cutting through. It helps to use your non-dominant hand to hold the chicken, and also lift the top section away as you butterfly. This steadies the meat and also creates some tension in the flesh to make cutting easier. Lift the top half as you cut for better control. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Again, do this slowly, keep your fingers safe, and periodically check on where your knife is headed. One of the easiest mistakes you can make is to cut quickly without checking, and end up with one tiny piece and one big weird piece. One of the worst mistakes you can make is not checking on the knife’s path, and accidentally cutting yourself. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann 3. Stop at the cut to maintain even thicknessContinue slicing along the same cut and stop the cut about a half inch from the connecting side. Now you can open it completely like a book (the hinge-side would be like the book’s binding). If you want two thin cuts, continue your cut through to the other side. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann For a proper butterflied chicken breast, the connecting side remains roughly as thick as the rest of the now-open chicken breast, so use your judgment on if you should stop more or less than a half-inch from the thin side. Once you become more comfortable, you can even adjust the cuts to butterfly chicken breast and other thick cuts of meat into three pieces, like unfolding a letter, for more surface area. Butterflying is a helpful technique that you can do to most boneless cuts of meat providing it's thick enough and you have precise knife skills. Try butterflying steak, chicken thighs, pork, or even shrimp. After this step, you can pound out the chicken or other meat and fill it with cheese and herbs, or dried fruit and bread stuffing for a leveled-up entree. Enjoy the quick cook time, and marinate, roulade, or tenderize to your stomach’s content. View the full article

Google Search may have pushed some unconfirmed Google search ranking algorithm update or tweak around Friday, January 24th. I briefly mentioned this on my Friday video but I felt it was worth kicking up here as its own story.View the full article

Yahoo is continuing its AI Chat features within Yahoo Search, while also incorporating AI Answers into its search results. The AI powered answers and chat seemed to be powered by OpenAI.View the full article

Microsoft Bing is testing placing the sources section of its AI Answers in a carousel view, instead of a list view. This let's you scroll through the sources as opposed to just seeing them below in a list view.View the full article

Microsoft is testing different colored URLs for its organic (free) results and its sponsored (paid) results. The organic URL slugs are bold black colored and the sponsored URL slugs are bold green colored.View the full article

Black women-owned businesses and black-owned brands are growing rapidly in the small business owners’ corporate world. Let’s explore a few Black women entrepreneurs who are leaving their imprint through both established and innovative businesses. Black Women Entrepreneurs to Inspire You Businesses run by female black entrepreneurs launched in various ways. Starting a business was not easy – it’s never easy! Here are brief descriptions of Black female business entrepreneurs who paved the way for Black women entrepreneurs who followed in their determined footsteps. Sheilisa Burgess Black women entrepreneurs are not the only ones celebrating the launch of Fria, one of the fastest-growing female-owned businesses. Burgess has developed a jewelry line that employs advanced technology, including thermal heat transfer and evaporative cooling, to help alleviate hot flashes. Maya Penn Penn collaborates with fellow black women entrepreneurs to create a fashion line that utilizes sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo. Her collection, named Maya’s Ideas, broadens her business into the fashion industry while incorporating global activism, making her a sought-after speaker. Additionally, her book, You Got This, serves to inspire teens and young adults. Natalie M. Cofield Cofield is the founder and CEO of the Walker’s Legacy Foundation, a resource and support organization dedicated to entrepreneurial women of color. Additionally, the foundation operates an online business accelerator to assist women of color in their professional growth. Essynce Moore This young black entrepreneur is a fashion designer who launched her line when she was 6 years old. Moore is also an actress and author. Her Essynce Couture line has expanded to include clothes and body products for teens. Tiffany Aliche Aliche is the founder and CEO of both Budgetnista and The Live Richer Academy. At one point in her life, Aliche became homeless and moved in with her parents. Her goal is to provide life-changing financial education for women worldwide. Asmau Ahmed Ahmed began her work career as a chemical engineer. She also earned an MBA from Columbia Business School. Those two fields gave her a great background – after 8 years of research – to launch Plum Perfect. Plum Perfect offers a tailored digital shopping experience specifically designed for women of color. Simply upload a selfie, create your color signature, and explore recommended products. Asia Newson This Super Business Girl began her entrepreneurial journey by creating and selling candles featuring her distinctive pink, yellow, and light blue candles. She then sought to motivate her peers to launch their own businesses, implementing strategies acquired from her workshops. These workshops are designed for middle and high school students. Swivel Beauty Swivel Beauty was cofounded by lawyer Jennifer Lambert and editor Jihan Thomas. Both women were frequent travelers and despaired of finding quality hair care in unfamiliar towns and cities. They developed Swivel Beauty, an App that connects women of color to hair professionals. Nathalie Walton Walton is CEO and cofounder of Expectful, which focuses on holistic care for moms. Via the Expectful site, women can take part in meditations and events. They can also join support groups. Expectful is staffed with experts, including those in the field of nutrition and post-partum care. Mikaila Ulmer Getting stung by a bee on two occasions led Ulmer to learn more about bees. She entered a local business competition by making flaxseed lemonade. She tweaked a 1940s recipe from her great-grandmother, substituting honey for sugar. She donates a portion of the profits of her Me and the Bees Lemonade business to help save honeybees. Arlan Hamilton Hamilton founded Backstage Capital after discovering that fewer than 10% of venture capital deals were allocated to women, people of color, and members of the LBGT community. Backstage Capital aims to address this imbalance and promote economic equality for these groups. So far, Backstage Capital has facilitated investments from over 180 companies for small businesses. Tracy Reese One of the most famous black women to wear a Tracey Reese design is Michele O’Bama, who sported one of her creations at the Democratic National Convention. Reese’s newest line is Hope for Flowers, which focuses on ethical sourcing of materials to create a sustainably manufactured line with economic and social value. Janice Bryant Howroyd All she had was a cell phone. Howroyd didn’t have office furniture – she didn’t even have a fax machine. Yet when Howroyd moved back to her hometown of Tarboro, North Carolina, she was able to launch and grow Act1 Group, today a leading employment agency with consulting services. MoAnA LUU The ManLUU fashion house, founded by MoAnA LUU, is an American fashion house featuring Creole luxury styles. Luee also excels at brand transformation, including a redesign of the leading fashion and culture magazine, Essence. Cathy Hughes Hughes is the first African American woman to lead a publicly traded media company. Hughes was at one time homeless and was turned down for a loan by 31 banks before she obtained a loan and bought her first radio station. Today, the self-made Hughes is one of the wealthiest women in America. She founded and chairs Urban One, Inc., which includes 56 radio stations. Vimbaji Kajese Kajese and her staff are known as “diversity crusaders.” Kajese realized that only 1% of the stock images used for advertising included people of color. Striving for social and economic equality, Kajese is the founder and CEO of #Adtags, to improve the stock image content to include people of color, to be used by companies worldwide. Binta Niambi Brown Brown was a lawyer for international corporations before becoming co-founder and co-chair of the Black Music Action Coalition. She is also the founder of Omalilly Projects, an artist management and production company. She’s a music executive at Keep Cool/RCA Records. Brown is also a prolific fundraiser who focuses on raising money for political, humanitarian, and cultural initiatives. Kimberly Bryant Bryant is the founder and CEO of Black Girls CODE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching computer programming and technology skills to young Black women. Her goal is to train 1 million young Black women by the year 2040. Google has contributed over $2 million to support this initiative, and Nike has recently partnered with Black Girls CODE to sponsor an event. Anne-Marie Imafidon One day, while attending college, Imafidon looked around the classroom and realized she was one of only 3 women in the class. She is the founder of Stemettes, Girls Do Stem Too, a social enterprise which strives to inspire and support young women of color in the fields of science, engineering, the arts and math. Oprah Winfrey No list of inspiring black women entrepreneurs would be complete without Oprah Winfrey, one of the most prominent and widely recognized public figures in the country. Her legendary business success and extensive philanthropy in various social services sectors have made a significant impact. She has offered long-term funding resources to many underserved communities. Madam C.J. Walker Walker lived from 1867 to 1919 in the rural American South. She accomplished the American dream through her hard work, producing and selling a hair care product (and later expanded body care line) for African Americans. The regime of using her products was known as The Walker Method. She was one of the first American women to become a millionaire. How many Black business owners are there in the US? According to Fundera, there are more than 2 million businesses owned by Black people. The majority of Black businesses started are in the health care field. The highest percentage of the businesses are in Washington, DC. What percentage of black-owned businesses are owned by black females? According to Fundera, black women business owners account for 35% of all Black business owners. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Black Female Entrepreneurs to Inspire You" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google is testing a new job carousel in the search results titled "jobs at similar employers." This likely pulls from the Google Jobs postings schema and more but it can come up if you are just searching for products from that company.View the full article

Is WordPress facing sustainability issues? Explore the recent disputes balanced with the benefits that the platform offers – this is still a CMS of choice. The post Should You Still Use WordPress? appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

SEO agencies are perfectly positioned to expand their services to include website management. The connection between SEO and site maintenance is clear: both prioritize keeping websites fast, functional, and optimized for search engines. Tasks like improving load times, fixing errors, and maintaining security align with what SEO agencies already do. By offering website management alongside SEO, agencies can build new revenue streams, potentially including reselling site hosting. Unlike project-based SEO work, site management creates opportunities for ongoing, predictable income through recurring service plans. This is a strategic way to grow your business and build stronger client relationships. At Kinsta, a worldwide go-to hosting provider for agencies, we’ve seen how agencies can thrive when they pair their SEO expertise with site management. We’ve built tools and services to help agencies maintain fast, secure websites that deliver exceptional results. With this experience, we understand how closely SEO and site maintenance are connected — and why SEO agencies can excel in this space. Let’s dive into why this evolution makes sense and how you can make it happen. Why SEO agencies are well-suited for site management services The skills and expertise needed for effective SEO often overlap with those required to maintain high-performing websites. From understanding technical site structures to optimizing load speeds and resolving errors, SEO professionals already possess much of the knowledge necessary to manage sites effectively. Let’s look at each aspect in more detail. Understanding SEO helps focus maintenance efforts SEO is far more than keywords and content – it requires a deep understanding of technical processes like site speed, structure, and performance. These factors matter a lot for SEO success, but they’re also central to effective website maintenance. Whether it’s fixing crawl errors, optimizing code, or ensuring mobile responsiveness, SEO professionals are well-versed in tasks that overlap with maintaining a website’s functionality. SEO pros know what makes websites successful SEO expertise goes beyond making a site rank higher. It also involves creating a user experience that matches what search engines like Google want. Those working in SEO already know how critical factors like server uptime, fast loading speeds, content structure, and error-free markup are to maintaining visibility in search results. This understanding gives SEO agencies an edge in prioritizing maintenance tasks that directly impact performance. Instead of guessing which updates matter most, agencies with SEO expertise can focus on improvements that enhance functionality and boost search engine rankings. The benefits of offering site management services as an SEO agency Expanding into site management services is a strategic way for SEO agencies to grow their revenue, improve client retention, and stand out in a competitive market. Bundling site management with your existing SEO services in this way means you can position your agency as a comprehensive solution for your clients’ online needs. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of a setup like this: It provides recurring revenue SEO work often revolves around project-based contracts, which can lead to unpredictable cash flow. On the other hand, site management services provide an opportunity to shift toward ongoing revenue through subscription-based or retainer models. Recurring maintenance plans allow you to establish a steady income stream that stabilizes your agency’s finances and supports long-term growth. This predictable revenue also makes it easier to scale your operations, hire new talent, or invest in tools and infrastructure. It builds stronger client retention When clients can rely on your agency for SEO and site management, they no longer need to juggle multiple providers. Offering a one-stop shop for their site’s maintenance and management builds trust and loyalty, and clients are less likely to become churn statistics. Regular site management work also keeps your agency in consistent contact with clients, creating more opportunities to demonstrate value, upsell additional services, and strengthen relationships. It keeps your agency competitive More agencies are diversifying their offerings to stay competitive. Offering a whole-site service can differentiate you from competitors that focus only on SEO. End-to-end packages that cover content management and optimization, maintenance, and perhaps hosting as a reseller position your agency as a full-service partner that’s invested in client success. Make this your key selling point when competing for new clients, particularly those looking for simplicity and efficiency in supporting an online presence. Making the leap from SEO agency to full-service agency When expanding into site management, you will be taking on new tasks that, while complementary, go beyond SEO territory. A few examples: Performance optimization: Fast-loading sites rank better and keep users engaged, according to Portent. Websites that load in under two seconds have a conversion rate that’s three times higher. SEO pros already know about optimizing images and minimizing code, but tuning server performance and managing a content distribution network (CDN) might be new. Content management: Fresh, optimized content helps make websites successful. Some SEO agencies might shift from advising clients on improving SEO for their content to full-on content management. Not a big leap for many SEO agencies. Security and backups: Secure websites protect rankings and maintain trust. Regular scans, software updates, and reliable backups prevent vulnerabilities and minimize downtime. Agencies will want tools and a platform that makes it easier to take on new site-management tasks. Go with what you know: WordPress CMS With WordPress powering more than 43.6% of the web, SEO agencies are often familiar with one of the most popular and versatile platforms available. WordPress is a key part of many SEO campaigns, thanks to its flexibility and dedicated SEO plugins like RankMath or Yoast. RankMath is among the most popular WordPress SEO plugins. This familiarity gives SEO agencies an advantage when expanding into site management. They can build on their existing WordPress knowledge to offer services like performance optimization, security updates, and content management – delivering value that aligns with their clients’ SEO goals while taking on new site management tasks. Many clients will already be using WordPress. If it’s also your CMS of choice, a full-service agency can recommend it to clients launching new sites. How the right hosting supports your site management goals Choosing the right managed hosting for WordPress matters for SEO agencies expanding into site management. A quality hosting provider simplifies the technical side of running WordPress sites. Whether an agency resells hosting or simply recommends a hosting provider, the right solution allows them to focus on what they do best: delivering results. Kinsta, a trusted leader in managed hosting, simplifies day-to-day operations and eliminates the need for server-level expertise from many WordPress developers and agencies. Let’s look at the most important services to look for in the company you choose to host your clients’ websites: Provide streamlined performance and security Managed hosting takes care of critical tasks like automated updates, malware protection, and optimized load times. With features like server-level caching and advanced security measures, hosts like Kinsta ensure sites are fast, secure, and always online. This means agencies can offer high-performing sites without spending extra time on backend maintenance. Offer built-in tools to create efficient processes Top-tier managed hosts include tools like uptime monitoring, analytics dashboards, and CDN integration. These features potentially cut hours of your work week, making it easier for agencies to manage multiple sites without requiring advanced technical skills. Kinsta’s intuitive platform, for example, offers one-click staging environments and detailed performance metrics, giving agencies everything they need to deliver results efficiently. The MyKinsta dashboard takes the guesswork out of site management. Help you focus on what matters SEO agencies can focus on strategy, content, and optimization by outsourcing the heavy lifting to a managed host. Instead of troubleshooting server issues or juggling updates, your team can dedicate its energy to activities that drive measurable client success, like building stronger relationships and scaling your services. Tips for success in website management Expanding into site management doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just take a strategic and gradual approach. Then, over a time period you set, you can add these services and maximize client value. Here’s how to get started: Start small Begin with essential, easy-to-manage services like uptime monitoring and link management. These foundational offerings allow you to demonstrate value to clients while building confidence in your agency’s new capabilities. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can scale to more complex services like performance optimization and security management. Make full use of automation Automation is your best friend when managing multiple client sites. Kinsta includes tools that handle tasks, like automated backups, software updates, and uptime monitoring. These features save time and ensure consistent results so your team can focus on strategic priorities. Schedule backups at a rate that makes sense for your clients with Kinsta. Bundle smartly Combine SEO and site maintenance into packages that provide added value for your clients. For example, offer a plan that includes regular site updates, performance checks, and monthly SEO reporting. Think about what your clients would most benefit from and build your package deals around that. Upskill your team Train your SEO specialists in basic site maintenance tasks and WordPress management tools. Familiarity with hosting dashboards, backup systems, and plugin management ensures your team can handle site management efficiently. Many hosting providers, like Kinsta, offer agency-specific resources and training to help you upskill your staff quickly. Summary Expanding into site management presents a real opportunity for SEO agencies to grow their services, build stronger client relationships, and generate predictable, recurring revenue. By leaning into your existing SEO expertise, you can offer high-value maintenance solutions that ensure websites run smoothly while staying optimized for search engines. Kinsta’s managed hosting solutions for agencies make the transition easier, offering automation, performance monitoring, and security features designed to simplify WordPress site management. For SEO agencies, we have a special offer: the first month is completely free and unlimited site migrations are included. So now is the perfect time to get started! View the full article

Printable bathroom signs can help your company’s restroom stand out. There are a variety of options available, from standard public restroom signs to those sharing important instructions for visitors. Read on for a full selection of printable bathroom signs to use for your business. Free Printable Bathroom Signs Vs. Professional Bathroom Signs A printable bathroom sign enables you to easily download a digital file and print it yourself. Certain files can even be customized, allowing you to frame them in a way that complements your decor. Professionally designed printable bathroom signs typically offer better quality than those that are free. Additionally, many of the products listed below are available for just a few dollars to download. The Benefits of Using a Printable Bathroom Sign If you’re looking for ways to spruce up your business bathroom, here are some reasons to consider printable bathroom signs: Save money: Most printable bathroom signs are available for just a few dollars to download, allowing you to decorate your bathroom walls without breaking the bank. Match your decor: There’s a huge array of printables available for bathrooms. So you can easily select one that fits with the rest of your bathroom decor. Some can even be customized with different colors. Or you can add a unique frame to finish off the look. Convey essential information: Many printable bathroom signs provide helpful reminders, such as the need to wash hands or warnings against flushing inappropriate items. These straightforward guidelines can help you save on bathroom repairs and maintenance costs. Add personality to your space: There are also tons of funny and unique bathroom signs to post in your space, which can make your location memorable for visitors. The Best Printable Bathroom Signs to Use Top Pick: Printable unisex bathroom art Runner Up: Bathroom definition wall art Best Value: Vintage-style restroom art Top Pick This printable unisex bathroom art provides a classic sign for public restrooms at businesses. It’s a recognizable symbol that can be posted outside the door to guide visitors. It’s also available in a few different variations to match your specific preferences. Runner Up Another classic option, this bathroom definition wall art includes a short and funny definition of the word bathroom. It’s a classic design that can work with nearly any decor style. Best Value This farmhouse vintage-style restroom art is one of the most affordable printables available for download. It has a simple and humorous message that can work either on the inside or outside of a restroom. Forgot Your Phone Wall Art Pretty much everyone spends their time in the restroom on their phones these days. But for those who forget their device and want something to focus on, these funny signs offer word search and anagram puzzles that double as wall art. Flush Only Toilet Paper Sign This printable bathroom sign offers an important reminder for businesses with septic systems. It advises users to flush only specific items, helping to avoid clogs and significant damage to septic tanks. The sign features a fully editable design and comes in various colors. Funny Restroom Sign This funny restroom sign provides a humorous take on the classic restroom symbol, with both figures visibly having to pee. Best Bathroom in the City Sign This bathroom sign offers a parody of popular online review sites. It has a chalkboard look and several “reviews” from past visitors promoting the bathroom’s comfortable features. Bathroom Prints Collection This collection of bathroom prints offers several simple and funny pieces of art. So you can choose the ones that best suit your space or mix and match to cover wall space throughout the bathroom. Please Do Not Flush Sign This bathroom printable keeps it simple while reminding visitors not to flush any unapproved items. Hope Everything Comes Out Ok Funny Wall Art This funny typographic sign includes a short message that can add some humor to your restroom. Toilet Rules Sign This toilet rules printable offers a few helpful reminders presented in a humorous way. It can make for a lighthearted addition to a bathroom interior. Toiletry Basket Sign This elegant printable sign is designed to let visitors know they can help themselves to anything in a bathroom’s complimentary toiletry basket. This is common for weddings and special events. But the sign can be edited to suit your business’s needs. Look Before You Leave Sign This simple bathroom sign is one of the top white bathroom printables available on Etsy. It provides a simple reminder for people to check the restroom before they exit. Apothecary Bathroom Sign This apothecary sign is the perfect vintage-inspired decor piece for a bathroom. It looks like an old advertising message for personal care products. Restroom Checklist This bathroom printable isn’t meant to decorate your space but instead to provide a practical method for tracking cleaning tasks. Restrooms Sign with Arrow This classic restroom sign includes the word “restrooms” with an arrow to direct patrons. Value Bundle Signs This value bundle of printable signs includes options for a bathroom, vacation rental, and even laundry room printables. Employees Must Wash Hands Sign Many businesses, particularly in the food service sector, must display signs that inform employees about the correct hand-washing procedures. This print provides a great solution. Cute Bathroom Reminder Sign This is one of the simplest printable bathroom signs available, featuring cute typography reminding patrons of a few basic instructions when using your restroom. Bathroom Needs Attention Sign This printable bathroom sign asks visitors to inform you if the bathroom requires attention, allowing you to enhance their overall experience. Ew Wash Your Hands Sign To encourage visitors to wash their hands with a touch of humor, you might want to consider this humorous print. Custom Quote Print If you want to create a completely customized message for your business bathroom, consider this typographic sign that allows you to edit the words and select your own colors. Zebra in Bathtub Print If you’re looking for unique artwork to go along with your printable bathroom signs, this unique zebra print may make your space stand out. Just Wash Your Hands Wall Art This funny bathroom sign can help you direct people to your restroom, create a welcoming environment, and get a few laughs. Bilingual Bathroom Sign If you want to provide instructions for visitors in English and Spanish, this sign provides a clear and stylish option. Final Words If you’re looking for any new printable bathroom signs for your business, this post contains a wide array of awesome options. Save the ideas above to liven up your company’s restroom. FAQs What is the Best Place to Buy a Printable Bathroom Sign? Etsy has a wide array of printable bathroom signs available for purchase, including standard symbols, helpful reminders, and humorous bathroom signs. Check the list above for our top picks. Are Printable Bathroom Signs Hardwearing? Printable bathroom signs are delivered as digital files, so you can print them on nearly any printable material you have access to. Most are just printed on paper or cardstock and then placed in a frame, which allows them to stand up to significant wear. Read More: Best Commercial Paper Towel Dispensers Best Open Sign for Your Business 15 Best Sign Font Options Image: Envato Elements This article, "Printable Bathroom Signs" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

After digging into millions of posts sent through Buffer, we’ve pinpointed the best time to post on all major social platforms for maximum engagement and reach — LinkedIn included. Discovering the best time to post on LinkedIn was particularly fascinating. While most other social media platforms can be pretty unpredictable, with ebbs and flows in activity happening at random times of the day, LinkedIn’s high-engagement time slots are like clockwork. I’ll be honest: this is a nice change of pace compared to the unpredictability of social media in general! It makes sense, of course — LinkedIn’s primary purpose is to connect professionals, and many users need to log on daily for their work, so during regular working hours. Another fun part of exploring the best time to post on LinkedIn was figuring out the best content type to post on the platform. (Finally, some hard evidence supports my anecdotal claims that folks need to use LinkedIn carousels!) But I’m getting ahead of myself here. Let’s take a stroll through some stats. Is there a best time to post on LinkedIn?After analyzing more than 1 million LinkedIn posts sent through Buffer, we were able to pinpoint some clear posting times when content tended to get higher engagement than others. So, your LinkedIn content is more likely to get engagement in these windows, whether you're looking to grow a LinkedIn Page for a brand or your own personal brand with a LinkedIn profile. Social media engagement is a particularly useful benchmark when it comes to pinpointing the best time to post on LinkedIn, and an important metric to keep an eye on as part of your social media strategy. The LinkedIn algorithm uses engagement — interactions like reactions, comments, and reposts — to predict which content is the most valuable on the platform. The more engagement a post receives, the more likely it is to surface in the LinkedIn feed. It’s a simplistic way of putting things since there are a myriad of factors that determine how posts are ranked in feeds, but as a rule of thumb — the more engagement your post receives, the more people will see your post. This is why we consider time slots in which posts got the highest engagement to be the best time to post on LinkedIn. But — and here’s the rub — every target audience is different. As I always do in these articles on the best time to post on social media, I advise experimenting with your schedule as part of your LinkedIn marketing strategy, then digging into your social media analytics to uncover your unique best time to post and make the most of the LinkedIn algorithm. We’ll get into how to do that below. First, here’s a deep dive into Buffer’s data on the best time to post on LinkedIn in 2025: The best time to post on LinkedIn for engagementThe best time to post on LinkedIn for high engagement is generally between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Posts shared at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Tuesdays and at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Thursdays tend to get the most engagement (but they’re only a smidge higher than the rest of the times during this peak workday window. You can see it all pretty clearly in the graph above. It breaks down the week into hourly chunks, where the darkest blocks are the time slots with the highest engagement (and the best time to post on LinkedIn), and the light to white blocks are the time slots with the lowest engagement. No data science degrees required to figure out why these slots are the best time to post on LinkedIn — despite the rise of more personal content on the platform, LinkedIn is still primarily used by professionals during business hours. It’s a safe bet to post content on LinkedIn anytime during these weekday windows, but your post might perform slightly better if shared on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. As you’ll see from the graph above, engagement picks up mid-morning, lunch breaks, and much of the afternoon as people start scrolling through their LinkedIn feeds when they step back from work. Unlike other social platforms, where evening slots usually work best, engagement on LinkedIn posts shared later in the day tends to peter out as people leave their offices and head home. 🌍To make this data easier to understand, our data scientist Bufferoo has done some mathematical magic to make the recommended time zones universally applicable. In other words, no need to convert. Whether you're in EST (Eastern Standard Time), PST (Pacific Standard Time), or IST (Indian Standard Time), the times apply to you.The best time to post on LinkedIn on MondayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Monday is 10 a.m., right as folks are getting into the swing of things at work. If you’re looking for more Monday slots to add to your posting schedule, LinkedIn posts shared at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. also saw higher engagement than the rest of the day. The best time to post on LinkedIn on TuesdayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Tuesday is at 10 a.m. — again, LinkedIn users are likely logging in as they get settled in at work (or perhaps while they enjoy a cup of coffee). If you need more optimal posting times to choose from, 11 a.m. is not far off in terms of engagement, as is 12 p.m. The best time to post on LinkedIn on WednesdayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Wednesday is 3 p.m., towards the end of users’ work days. Other optimal posting times for Wednesday are 2 p.m. and 10 a.m. (that mid-morning slot is always a good option!). The best time to post on LinkedIn on ThursdayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Thursday is 10 a.m. Posts shared at this time tended to get the highest engagement of the week, so this time is definitely worth adding to your content calendar. If you need more times on Thursday, 11 a.m. is also not far off in terms of engagement, and 8 a.m. is also a strong time to consider adding to your schedule, too. The best time to post on LinkedIn on FridayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Friday is 11 a.m — right around the mid-morning coffee break. Other strong contenders for your posting schedule are 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. The best time to post on LinkedIn on SaturdayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Saturday is 12 p.m. That said, posts shared on Saturday tend to see less engagement on the platform, so consider scheduling your content for a weekday instead. If you must post on Saturday, our data showed that 12 p.m. tends to get the highest engagement, followed by 10 a.m. and 8 a.m. The best time to post on LinkedIn on SundayThe best time to post on LinkedIn on Sunday is at 12 p.m. Still, content shared on Sundays saw the lowest engagement of the week, and this slot is definitely not your best option if you’re hoping to boost post interactions. If posting on Sunday is unavoidable, midday is your best bet. Other good times to post are 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. At a glance: The best times to post on LinkedIn for each day of the weekMonday: 10 a.m.Tuesday: 10 a.m.Wednesday: 3 p.m.Thursday: 10 a.m.Friday: 11 a.m.Saturday: 12 p.m.Sunday: 12 p.m.⚡Just as there’s no one-size-fits-all best time to post, there’s no single best time to post across all social platforms. Here’s the best time to post on Instagram, the best time to post on Facebook, and the best time to post on TikTok.The best day to post on LinkedInThe best day of the week to post on LinkedIn is Thursday. Buffer’s data found that posts shared on Thursday tended to get the most engagement, very closely followed by Wednesday, then Tuesday. But, as you can see from the above graph, the difference between all the weekdays is not all that significant. Saturday and Sunday, on the other hand, are a different story. Our data found that Sunday is the worst day of the week to post on LinkedIn, with Saturday not far off. Again, this is exactly what one would expect on a social network where content is largely focused on work and career growth. Most LinkedIn users just aren’t as interested in leveling up their knowledge and skills as they are on weekdays — and that’s OK! The best content format to post on LinkedInEven the social network for professionals is not immune to the allure of video content. LinkedIn has made some major changes to the platform in recent months, with an exclusive video feed that makes the format even more accessible for users. That said, when it comes to engagement, video is not the strongest content format — carousels are. Document posts, also known as carousels or PDFs on LinkedIn, are in a league of their own, while video and image posts are the next best formats. Our data shows that carousel posts tend to get 278% more engagement than video posts, 303% more engagement than image posts, and 596% more engagement than text-only posts. While video came in second place — our data shows they tend to get 7% more engagement than image posts and 84% more than text posts — I strongly recommend you don’t discount video just yet. (More on this below.) Unsurprisingly, posts with links perform the worst, making them the least effective for engagement. Best keep your external links within LinkedIn comments for now. 💡You can schedule first comments on LinkedIn with Buffer — meaning that all-important link you want to include in your post can be scheduled along with your content! Learn more →In an episode of our podcast, Buffer Chat, LinkedIn’s Head of Scaled Programs, Callie Schweitzer, strongly recommended creators explore video in 2025. "Video, Video, Video, Video,” she said, when I asked her to share her advice for creators looking to grow their followings in 2025. “You have seen a lot more of it in your feed, I'm sure. And video uploads globally are up 34%. Total video viewership on the platform is up 36% year over year. So these are pretty staggering stats.” When I asked to give us a hint about what features creators can look out for in 2025, all she would say was, “Keep an eye on video.” You heard it here first! How to find the best time to post on LinkedIn for your audienceThe optimal timings above can form a helpful guide if you’re just building your LinkedIn social media marketing strategy. Still, they’re no substitute for figuring out your own best time to post. The native LinkedIn Analytics will surface your top-performing posts over a specific time for both pages and profiles, which might allow you to pinpoint some patterns and figure out your personal best time to post on LinkedIn. However, you’ll need a record of exactly when you posted a specific piece of content — like a social media management tool or social media content calendar — to refer back to. Frustratingly, LinkedIn Analytics won’t show you detailed timings on published content after the fact. The best the LinkedIn timestamp will tell you is “3h” or “2d” (to indicate you posted the content three hours or two days ago, etc.) Luckily, if you have a LinkedIn Page connected to Buffer, there’s a much simpler way to figure out your best time to post content. In fact, with enough data, Buffer will tell you. (We’re hoping to bring this feature to LinkedIn profiles, too — keep an eye on our product roadmap to stay in the loop!) Through Buffer’s Analytics, you can see an overview of what day, type of post, and frequency is best for each of your connected channels. Here’s how to access yours: Sign in to Buffer on your desktop and click Analyze on the top menu.Click LinkedIn under the Channels at the left-side menu.Click Answers.For example, we know the Buffer LinkedIn page’s best day to post is Tuesday, with text-based posts and one post per day work best for us right now. To get more granular analytics for each post, follow steps 1 and 2 above: Click on Posts in the menu at the top.Scroll down to Posts insights.Here, you’ll find detailed metrics for every post, along with the exact time each one was shared. You can also get a comprehensive overview of the performance of both LinkedIn company pages and profile posts. To find these details: Sign in to Buffer on your desktop and click Publish on the top menu.Click on LinkedIn on the left-hand side.Select List to see your queue.Select Sent to see all published LinkedIn postsYou’ll get a summary of post performance right underneath each item. On page posts, you’ll see likes, comments, shares, impressions, and engagement rate. On profile posts, you’ll see likes and comments.Screeshot of LinkedIn page analytics in Buffer3 factors to consider when scheduling LinkedIn contentDifferent factors affect the best time to post on LinkedIn, especially because it is a niche platform dedicated to professionals, businesses, and the topics they discuss. Here are some things to keep in mind as you schedule your LinkedIn posts: Breaks in the workdayLinkedIn is primarily used during traditional business hours, with engagement dropping off markedly after 5 p.m. and on weekends. Of course, there are also natural breaks during the workday in which LinkedIn engagement increases. Mid-morning (10 a.m.) and lunchtime (12 p.m.) are generally slightly more active times on the platform. Engagement picks up again towards the end of the workday when professionals are likely to take an afternoon break. Varying audience time zonesConsider when the largest segment of your population is likely to be on LinkedIn. For example, if you're based in Europe, your best bet is to post using Central European Time (CET) since that time zone has the most significant number of people active in that region. You can use a social media analytics tool to determine where your target audience is located. Posting frequencyUltimately, you should experiment to find what works best for your account and target audience. Anything from where you put your links to using LinkedIn’s carousel post feature can affect your engagement rates, regardless of timing. So, you need to prioritize understanding the LinkedIn algorithm, platform, and your audience, as well as when to post, as part of your LinkedIn marketing strategy. If you’re still unsure about the best time to post on LinkedIn for you, use Buffer’s automatic scheduling to start and refine your posting strategy over time. Once you’ve started posting consistently through Buffer, you will also get all your analytics in your account's ‘Answers’ dashboard to see which days and hours are the best time to post on LinkedIn. What have you found most helpful when determining your best time to post on LinkedIn? Comment below or let us know @buffer on all our social media platforms. View the full article

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Digital art’s popularity is soaring, and the demand for online art commissions has never been higher. Sites like Artists and Clients are at the forefront, creating a vibrant marketplace where artists and art lovers can connect. This platform stands out by making it easy for creators to find commissions and for enthusiasts to discover unique pieces. As we dive into the world of digital art commissions, let’s explore 15 sites like Artist and Clients that offer similar opportunities for creativity and connection, enriching the art community further. The Limitations of Artists and Clients While Artists and Clients offers a fantastic platform for digital art commissions, it’s not without its challenges. Emerging artists might find it tough to get noticed among the sea of established talents, limiting their exposure. Additionally, the platform’s focus may not cater to every art style equally, leaving some artists and clients struggling to find their perfect match. Another drawback is for artists who wish to expand beyond commissions. Without their own website or online store, they miss out on building a standalone brand and diversifying their income streams. These limitations highlight the importance of exploring additional platforms to maximize opportunities. Top Sites Like Artists and Clients Exploring the digital art world? Here’s a curated list of 15 platforms similar to Artists and Clients, each offering unique opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts alike. DeviantArt DeviantArt is a groundbreaking online platform within the art community, acting as a creative hub for both artists and art enthusiasts since it was founded. It provides a wide range of digital art commissions, including fan art, illustrations, and intricate digital paintings. What sets DeviantArt apart are its community features, such as groups, forums, and the option to follow favorite artists, which create a vibrant environment for artists to enhance their reputation and for clients to find new talent. With its extensive reach and encouraging atmosphere, it caters to a variety of styles and preferences, making it a preferred destination for digital art commissions. Behance Behance is Adobe’s portfolio platform that features a user-friendly interface for artists to display their work and for clients to search for high-quality digital art. Renowned for its professional-grade portfolios, it serves as an excellent venue for clients to discover top-tier talent in graphic design, illustration, and more. Behance’s project-based layout allows artists to showcase their creative process in detail, which helps them attract clients who value the depth and breadth of their work. This platform is particularly favored by professionals seeking creative services and collaborations, making it a key resource for sites like artists and clients. ArtStation ArtStation is the premier platform for game, film, media, and entertainment artists. It offers a rich blend of high-quality digital art commissions, including concept art, character designs, and 3D models. ArtStation provides artists with tools to build a professional online presence, such as customizable portfolios and a marketplace for selling prints and tutorials. Its emphasis on professional development and exposure makes it a favored platform for artists looking to break into or advance within the entertainment industry. Clients flock to ArtStation for its high caliber of artists and the wide range of creative services available. Etsy (For broader creative works, including digital art) Etsy is renowned for its focus on handmade, vintage, and unique goods, including a wide range of digital art and creative services. It’s an ideal platform for artists specializing in custom illustrations, graphic design, and digital portraits to connect with clients looking for personalized and unique art pieces. Etsy’s user-friendly interface and supportive community make it easy for artists to set up shop and for clients to navigate through a plethora of creative listings. This platform is especially appealing for those looking to commission art that has a personal touch or a special meaning. Fiverr (Diverse range of freelance artists) Fiverr offers a vast marketplace where freelance artists of various specialties, including digital art, graphic design, and animation, can offer their services. Sites like Fiverr are characterized by a gig-based system, where services are presented as packages with clear prices, making it straightforward for clients to understand what they are getting. Fiverr facilitates the connection between artists and clients globally, ensuring a seamless commission process with its structured communication and payment system. This platform is ideal for clients seeking a wide range of creative services at competitive prices. Read More How to sell on Fiverr How to make money on Fiverr Freelancer Freelancer is a global crowdsourcing marketplace that connects freelance professionals, including digital artists, with clients needing custom work. It’s unique in offering a bidding system, where clients post projects and artists bid to win the contract. This competitive environment allows clients to choose from a variety of proposals, ensuring they find a service that matches their budget and project requirements. Freelancer’s platform is versatile, catering to a wide range of digital art commissions from logo design to full-fledged illustrations, making it a dynamic space for creative collaborations. Upwork Upwork is a premier platform that enables businesses to connect with various creative professionals, including digital artists. It is designed to streamline the hiring process for both short-term projects and long-term partnerships. Upwork distinguishes itself with its thorough approach to freelancing, featuring a strong system for posting jobs, evaluating applications, and overseeing work. The platform accommodates a wide array of digital art commissions, encompassing graphic design, branding, web design, and multimedia projects, thus offering a flexible and secure environment for sites like artists and clients alike. 99Designs 99Designs specializes in connecting clients with graphic designers for a wide range of projects, including logo design, branding, and web design. What distinguishes 99Designs is its unique contest format, which allows clients to post their projects as contests and receive numerous design submissions from artists around the globe. This method enables clients to select the best design that fits their requirements, while artists have the chance to compete and showcase their work to potential clients. It creates a dynamic and competitive atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovation in digital art commissions. Dribbble Dribbble is a vibrant community where designers and creatives showcase their work, receive feedback, and seek job opportunities. This platform is ideal for digital artists to develop their portfolios, network with industry peers, and uncover freelance projects. Dribbble is especially favored by web and graphic designers, illustrators, and UI/UX designers, providing a visually engaging and interactive environment. Clients turn to Dribbble to find top talent, making it an invaluable resource for both artists aiming to gain visibility and businesses looking for innovative design solutions. Sketchmob Sketchmob offers a distinctive platform where clients can commission custom artwork directly from artists. It’s known for its wide variety of art styles and services, ranging from portrait drawings to fantasy art. Sketchmob simplifies the process of finding the right artist for your project, providing a seamless interface for browsing portfolios, reading reviews, and placing orders. This platform is a favorite among those looking to commission personalized artwork, thanks to its user-friendly approach and the high quality of work produced by its community of artists. Redbubble Redbubble is a global online marketplace where artists can sell print-on-demand products featuring their original designs. This platform is ideal for digital artists looking to monetize their artwork through a wide range of products, from t-shirts and stickers to home decor and phone cases. Redbubble stands out for its ease of use, allowing artists to upload their work and set their own prices while the platform takes care of production, shipping, and customer service. It’s an excellent way for artists to reach a wider audience and for clients to find unique, artist-designed items. Society6 Society6 is similar to Redbubble in that it allows artists to sell their art as high-quality prints and on a variety of products. Society6 is dedicated to providing artists with a platform to showcase their work on a global scale, turning digital art into tangible items like art prints, apparel, and home decor. The site is known for its commitment to quality and its artist-friendly policies, ensuring that creators are fairly compensated for their work. Society6 is a great choice for clients looking for unique, artistically designed products and for artists aiming to expand their reach and income. Zazzle Zazzle provides a creative marketplace where artists and designers can sell their artwork on a vast array of products. From customizing business cards to creating unique gifts, Zazzle offers an expansive platform for personalization. What makes Zazzle stand out is its robust design tool, enabling both artists and customers to customize products to their exact specifications. This site is particularly appealing for those looking to create or purchase bespoke items, offering endless possibilities for creativity across a broad range of products. TeePublic TeePublic is a vibrant community of independent artists where users can find unique apparel and accessories featuring original designs. Specializing in high-quality, print-on-demand t-shirts, TeePublic also offers a wide selection of other products, including phone cases, stickers, and home decor. Artists enjoy the platform for its ease of use and the ability to reach a wide audience without the hassle of managing inventory or shipping, making it an excellent option for those looking to share their designs with the world. Threadless Threadless is an online community of artists and an e-commerce website that focuses on selling user-submitted artwork on tees, hoodies, and a range of other items. Known for its artist-centric approach, Threadless allows creators to submit designs to be voted on by the community, with selected designs being produced and sold. This model offers artists a unique opportunity to gain exposure and earn money from their designs while customers get access to unique, limited-edition items that stand out from the mainstream market. PlatformFocusIdeal ForUnique Features DeviantArtDigital art commissions, community featuresArtists growing reputation, discovering new talentGroups, forums, following artists BehanceProfessional portfolios, high-quality digital artDiscovering top-tier talent, professional collaborationsProject-based presentations, Adobe integration ArtStationGame, film, media art, professional toolsBreaking into/advancing in entertainment industryMarketplace for prints and tutorials, portfolio customization EtsyHandmade, vintage, unique digital artPersonalized, unique art piecesUser-friendly interface, supportive community FiverrFreelance digital art, diverse servicesCompetitive prices, wide range of servicesGig-based system, clear pricing FreelancerGlobal freelancing, bidding systemBudget/project-specific artist selectionBidding system for projects UpworkComprehensive freelancing, diverse digital art commissionsOne-off projects, long-term collaborationsJob posting, application review system 99DesignsGraphic design contests, multiple submissionsChoosing best design from contestsContest format for project submissions DribbbleDesign community, portfolio buildingExposure, finding freelance opportunitiesFeedback from design community SketchmobCustom artwork commissions, variety of stylesCommissioning personalized artworkSeamless interface for browsing and ordering RedbubblePrint-on-demand products, original designsMonetizing artwork, wide audience reachEase of use, production and shipping handled by platform Society6High-quality prints, artist-designed productsUnique, artistically designed productsQuality commitment, artist-friendly policies ZazzlePersonalized products, robust design toolCreating/purchasing bespoke itemsRobust customization tool, wide product range TeePublicPrint-on-demand apparel, independent artistsSharing designs, hassle-free inventory managementCommunity of independent artists, wide product selection ThreadlessUser-submitted art on various items, community votingGaining exposure, earning from designsCommunity voting on designs, limited edition items Advantages of Using an Online Marketplace for Custom Art Online marketplaces for custom art, such as sites like artists and clients, are transforming how digital artists engage with art enthusiasts by offering numerous benefits for both groups. These platforms democratize the art world, enhancing accessibility and connectivity. Here are some key advantages of using online marketplace sites for artists: Global Reach: Artists have the opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience, transcending the limitations of local markets and physical galleries. This international visibility expands their potential customer base and enhances their chances for recognition. Diverse Opportunities: Clients gain access to an extensive range of artistic styles and genres, making it easier to find an artist whose vision aligns with their own. Whether looking for traditional portraits, contemporary digital art, or niche genres, there’s something for everyone. Ease of Use: The platform’s user-friendly interface simplifies the commission process from initial contact to final delivery. This streamlines transactions and communication, making custom art more accessible to a broader audience. Community and Collaboration: These sites, like artists and clients, frequently cultivate a sense of community among their users. Artists have the opportunity to collaborate, share insights, and offer support, while clients can give feedback and suggestions, resulting in a dynamic and supportive ecosystem. Professional Growth: Exposure to a wide range of projects and client requests helps artists expand their skill set and portfolio. This diversity can lead to professional growth and the development of a unique artistic style. Secure Transactions: These platforms feature integrated payment systems that ensure secure financial transactions, safeguarding both artists and clients against potential fraud while guaranteeing that artists receive fair compensation for their work. Feedback and Reviews: Artists can receive feedback and reviews from clients, which not only helps in building a reputable profile but also aids in continuous improvement and client satisfaction. Visibility and Marketing: By leveraging the platform’s marketing and visibility tools, artists can effectively promote their work without the need for significant personal marketing efforts, saving time and resources. Creative Freedom: Artists have the liberty to set their own prices, choose the projects they are interested in, and work at their own pace, offering a flexible work environment that nurtures creativity. Inspiration and Trends: Being part of a dynamic online art marketplace allows artists and clients to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the art world, inspiring new creative projects and collaborations. By providing a platform that bridges the gap between digital artists and art enthusiasts, online marketplaces like Artists and Clients not only enhance the commissioning experience but also contribute to a flourishing and inclusive digital art community. Artists and Clients vs. Other Digital Art Platforms Artists and Clients stand out in the digital art world by offering a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of commissioning art. Compared to other platforms, it provides a direct line for artist-client interaction, making the commissioning experience personal and straightforward. While sites like DeviantArt or ArtStation focus more on portfolio display and networking, Artists and Clients zero in on transactions, making it easier for artists to get commissions and for clients to purchase custom art. This focus on simplifying transactions sets it apart, offering a more tailored experience for those specifically looking to commission digital art. Niche Platforms for Specialized Digital Art Commissions Beyond the broad marketplace of Artists and Clients, there are niche platforms that cater to specific digital art needs. For instance, Sketchmob and CustomMade focus on custom portraits and personalized artwork, providing a space for clients seeking something truly unique. Redbubble and Society6, on the other hand, excel in turning digital art into tangible items like prints, apparel, and home decor. These specialized sites offer artists the chance to dive deep into their preferred genres and clients to find creators who excel in the exact style or product they’re after, enriching the art commissioning landscape with diversity and depth. https://youtube.com/watch?v=dWL-AWkL-vQ%3Fsi%3DrcN_kaIwhagll-AE FAQs: Sites Like Artists and Clients Are Artist and Clients the best site for custom art commissions? While Artists and Clients is highly regarded for its focused approach to art commissions, whether it’s the best site depends on your specific needs. It excels in connecting artists with clients, but make sure to explore other options, too, as the best platform varies by individual preferences and project requirements. What is the biggest art-sharing website? DeviantArt is widely regarded as the largest art-sharing website, featuring an extensive community of artists and art lovers. It serves as a creative hub, providing a diverse array of digital and traditional art while allowing artists to present their work to a global audience. What is the best site for custom portraits? Sketchmob is widely praised for custom portraits, specializing in connecting clients with artists who excel in creating personalized artwork. Its user-friendly interface and diverse artist base make it a top choice for those looking to commission custom portraits. How does being part of an online community benefit digital artists? Being part of an online community offers digital artists valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and feedback from peers. It can lead to collaborations, improve skills through shared knowledge, and even open up avenues for commissions and sales. Essentially, it fosters growth and visibility in the digital art space. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Sites Like Artists and Clients" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

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Sun shades for car windows are more than just a car accessory. They provide a critical line of defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Not only do they shield you and your passengers from direct sunlight, but they also protect your vehicle’s interior. Plus, they help to keep your car cool, making summer drives more comfortable. What Sun Shades for Car Windows Are Sun shades are specialized coverings designed to fit your car windows. They act like sunglasses for your vehicle, blocking a portion of light and heat. The primary goal is to lower the temperature inside your car. Additionally, they offer privacy by limiting the view of your vehicle. Sun shades are popular worldwide, making your ride comfortable regardless of the weather outside. Materials used in sun shades range from simple cardboard to advanced reflective fabrics. These materials are chosen based on their ability to deflect sunlight. The thicker the sun shade, the more sunlight it can block. This results in a cooler interior and prevents the fading and cracking of your vehicle’s upholstery. Thus, a good sun shade is a worthy investment for any car owner. The Importance of Sun Shades for Car Windows Sun shades serve a purpose beyond just cooling your car. They are a protective layer against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage your skin and even lead to skin cancer. Therefore, sun shades are a preventative measure, protecting you and your passengers from harmful UV exposure. Not only do they protect humans, but they also protect your vehicle. The UV rays can cause the interior materials of your car to degrade over time. This can lead to a dull and worn-out interior, which might affect the resale value of your car. Sun shades preserve the look and feel of your car, ensuring it stays fresh for longer. Types of Sun Shades for Car Windows The market offers a wide range of sun shades for car windows, each with its own advantages. Some are specifically made for windshields, while others cater to side or rear windows. Your choice will depend on the area where you wish to block sunlight. Some sun shades are tailored for specific car models, ensuring an ideal fit, while universal sun shades are also an option, designed to fit any car window. The different types of sun shades offer varying levels of protection. Some sun shades can block almost all of the UV rays, while others only block a portion. Also, the level of visibility differs. Some provide a clear view, while others might restrict it. Hence, you should consider all these factors when choosing a sun shade for your car. The Best Sun Shades to Keep Your Car Cool Protecting yourself and your car’s interior is essential during the intense glare of summer sunlight. Using a quality sun shade will help keep your car cool, whether parked or while you are driving. Here are the various options currently available on Amazon. Top Pick: EcoNour Car Windshield Sun ShadeRunner Up: Magnelex Car Windshield SunshadeBest Value: Kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade BrandEcoNourMagnelexKinder Fluff ColorSilver-BlackBlack, Silver1 Piece (Black & Silver) Closure TypeAdjustableFoldableTwist & Fold Product Dimensions64"L x 32"W63"L x 33.8"W59"L x 28.5"W ManufacturerEcoNourOZNC Global Ithalat Ihracat Ltd. Sti.Kinder Fluff Item Weight4.8 ounces5 ounces6.7 ounces PositionFrontFrontFront Special FeaturesN/AN/ACertified and waterproof windshield shade. Blocks over 99% UVR with excellent cover in the maximum protection category of 50+ UPF, 100 SPF Top Pick: EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade Runner Up: Magnelex Car Windshield Sunshade Best Value: kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade Top Pick: The EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade is made in a sleek Silver-Black to shield your vehicle from the harsh rays of the sun, significantly reducing the heat build-up inside your car. Crafted from high-density 240T polyester, the EcoNour sun shade is lightweight and durable. Its 64″L x 32″W dimensions ensure a snug fit for most standard-sized windshields, making it a must-have accessory for your vehicle. Key Features: Premium 240T polyester material for durability Convenient 64″L x 32″W size, compatible with standard-sized windshields Effective UV rays and heat-blocking Helps to prevent dashboard fading and cracking Easy and tool-less installation Compact folding design for easy storage Adjustable closure type for a perfect fit Lightweight, weighing just 4.8 ounces for effortless handling By using the EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade, you’re investing in the longevity of your vehicle’s interior. The sunshade provides maximum sun protection and prevents your dashboard from fading and cracking. Easy to install and store, it will quickly become indispensable to your driving experience. EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade Buy on Amazon Magnelex Car Windshield Sunshade Runner Up: The Magnelex Car Windshield Sunshade fits most sedans and mid-size SUVs seamlessly. It’s not just about keeping your vehicle cool during hot summer days; it’s about protecting your vehicle’s interior from potential heat damage. Crafted from high-quality reflective polyester material, the Magnelex sunshade effectively blocks heat and sun, contributing to a more comfortable vehicle interior. Its foldable design and accompanying storage bag make it a breeze to store when not in use. Key Features: Superior reflective polyester material for effective heat-blocking Compact 63″L x 33.8″W size, fitting most sedans and mid-size SUVs Foldable design for easy storage Included storage bag for convenient safekeeping Complimentary “Steering Wheel Cover Sunshade” to prevent hot steering wheels Weighs only 5 ounces, promoting easy handling Manufactured by OZNC Global Ithalat Ihracat Ltd. Sti. for trusted quality Efficient design for faster and easier cooling of your vehicle The Magnelex Car Windshield Sunshade offers more than just cooling benefits. It safeguards your upholstery from cracks and splits caused by excessive heat, extending the life of your car’s interior. The faster your car cools down, the quicker your air conditioner reaches its optimal operating level, saving you valuable time and energy. Magnelex Car Windshield Sunshade Buy on Amazon kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade Best Value: The Kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade is certified to block 99.87% of UVB and 99.02% of UVA rays, offering unrivaled sun protection. This isn’t just a claim; it’s a certification confirming an industry-leading UPF 50+ protection level. Its innovative twist and fold closure mechanism enhances user convenience, making it both easy to use and store. At 59″ x 28.5″, it will cover most windshields. This sun shade is far more than a mere accessory; it’s a shield for your vehicle, enhancing the longevity and quality of your vehicle’s interior. Key Features: High-quality construction that effectively blocks over 99% of UV radiation Versatile size (59″L x 28.5″ W), suitable for various vehicle types Easy-to-use twist and fold closure mechanism Lightweight design (only 6.7 ounces) for easy handling Manufactured by Kinder Fluff for guaranteed quality A unique clamp connector design for increased stability and easy fitting Adjustable size by overlapping rings for a custom fit Compact design that leaves no residue on windows The Kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade also comes with a handy storage pouch, enabling effortless storage in various parts of your vehicle. With this sunshade, you can ensure a cooler and more comfortable vehicle interior, enabling a better driving experience for you and your passengers. Kinder Fluff Windshield Sun Shade Buy on Amazon EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade The EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade is a vital accessory crafted from robust 230T Polyester material, engineered to endure prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight. With dimensions of 31″L x 28″W, it fits a wide range of vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. EzyShade’s partnership with Shield-X results in an ultra-reflective technology that leaves car interiors up to 15% cooler than other reflective sun shades. But it’s not just about keeping cool; it’s about protecting your vehicle. The EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade offers a remarkable 99% UV block out, ensuring the longevity of your vehicle’s interior and enhancing your driving comfort. Key Features: Shield-X Ultra Reflective Technology exclusive to EzyShade Customizable fit with two identical rectangular shades Simple and easy to fold and store Ensures over 99% UV and sun protection Convenient non-slip sticky dashboard mat included Suitable for a variety of vehicles (Passenger Car, Van, SUV, Pickup Truck) Constructed from durable 230T Polyester Measures 31″L x 28″W for maximum coverage EzyShade goes beyond just cooling; it offers a thoughtful design that is easy to use, install, and store. The unique design allows two folding options, one of which is guaranteed to be simple. Additionally, every purchase includes an anti-slip dashboard mat that securely holds small items while you drive. EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade Buy on Amazon SANAWATEC Car Windshield Cover The SANAWATEC Car Windshield Cover is tailored for a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to vans. The robust polyester material ensures durability and efficiency. With dimensions of 91.7″L x 50.4″W, the SANAWATEC Cover provides extensive coverage for your vehicle’s windshield. Specifically designed to combat the elements, this windshield cover shields against frost, ice, and snow in the winter, and against sun, dust, and heat in the summer. It is a solution for all seasons, ensuring the longevity of your windshield and wipers. Key Features: Protects against frost, ice, snow, leaves, and water in winter Shields against sun, dust, heat, and UV rays in summer Reinforced for wind resistance, snow, and theft prevention Incorporated with 10 powerful magnets for secure placement Equipped with 2 belts for door handles and elastic bands for side mirrors Made of 4-layer temperature-resistant, tear-resistant material Easy to install, store, and carry Gentle and soft bottom layer to protect the windshield from scratches SANAWATEC’s unique design with large ‘ears’ allows it to be securely tucked into your vehicle’s doors, providing resistance against wind and theft. Furthermore, the elastic bands provided can secure the cover to the side mirrors, ensuring maximum coverage. SANAWATEC Car Windshield Cover Buy on Amazon Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Car Window Roller Shade The Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Car Window Roller Shade is built to fit most window sizes at 17 x 14 x 1 inches. This white roller shade isn’t just about reducing glare but more about offering maximum coverage to protect from harmful solar radiation. It comes integrated with a patented white hot indicator that turns white when the car gets too hot. Now, you can always ensure a safer and comfortable temperature for everyone in the vehicle. Key Features: White hot indicator provides an overheating alert Two 15 inches x 19 inches shades for maximum coverage Dual attachment system for customized fit (adjustable clips or suction cups) One push retract button for effortless roll-up Premium mesh material offering superior visibility Easy-to-prepare surface for maximum suction Ensures a safe journey by blocking harmful UV-A and UV-B rays Retractable design for convenient use on demand A combination of adjustable clips and suction cups as attachment systems offers flexibility in fitting the shade. Simply choose the most convenient and effective method to secure the shade on your window. Munchkin Brica Sun Safety Car Window Roller Shade Buy on Amazon Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sunshade The Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sunshade is crafted from superior quality microfiber and leather; this sunshade is designed to fit perfectly within the dimensions of 12 x 11 x 0.6 inches for most sports cars and small-sized vehicles. It acts as a protective shield designed to preserve your vehicle’s interior by preventing damage and discoloration caused by harmful UV rays and excessive heat. It maintains the original charm of your dashboard, electronics, and leather seats. Key Features: Shields from harsh sunlight and heat: Ensures a cool, comfortable interior Innovative 2-piece design: Offers flexibility for perfect fitting Dimensions: 23.5×29 inches, optimal for sports cars and small-sized cars Quality material: Made from UV-reflective, high-density material for maximum protection Hassle-free installation and removal: Designed for your convenience Storage: Easily stored in the provided travel bag Heat reduction technology: Blocks 99% of damaging UV rays Bonus gift: Comes with a free, red microfiber cleaning cloth The innovative 2-piece design of the sunshade allows you to install it either vertically or horizontally, offering a customized fit for your vehicle. Its construction’s high-quality, reflective material ensures it provides an effective barrier against heat and UV rays. Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sunshade Buy on Amazon TFY Universal Car Rear Side-Door Square-Window Sunshades The TFY Universal Car Rear Side-Door Square-Window Sunshade has a dimension of 7.87 x 9.84 x 0.79 inches, making it a suitable fit for most sedan models. Crafted with ingenuity, the sunshade fits seamlessly on the upper halves of open doors, ensuring passengers are shielded from harmful sun rays. Once the doors are shut, the sunshade remains in place, providing persistent protection from the sun. Even with the sunshades installed, the car windows can be operated without any restriction. Key Features: Ingenious design: Double mesh layer to protect from glare and sunburn Versatility: Windows can be raised and lowered without removing sunshades Easy installation: Simply slip over the top halves of open doors Durability: Made from lightweight, stretch fabric that’s also hard-wearing Minimized Moiré effect: Special fabric combination used Universal fitting: Suitable for most sedan models’ rear door windows between 31.5” and 47” W, and up to 23” H. Lightweight: Weighs only 6.7 ounces, reducing extra load Manufacturer reliability: Made by renowned manufacturer TFY The smart design of this sunshade allows it to be installed in a matter of moments. Despite its lightweight nature, the stretch fabric used in its manufacture is both hard-wearing and durable. This special sunshade fabric combination is designed to minimize the distracting moiré effect. TFY Universal Car Rear Side-Door Square-Window Sunshades Buy on Amazon Qualizzi Car Sun Shades for SUVs The Qualizzi Car Sun Shades are designed to offer comprehensive protection from the sun for your SUVs, wagons, crossovers, hatchbacks, vans, minivans, and sedans. They have been meticulously designed to cover windows up to 17″-18″x42″-46″ in size. These sun shades are made from a stretchy mesh that provides complete window coverage, preventing any sun leaks. The fabric also allows a clear view from the inside, preserving your privacy without compromising your sight. They’re easily installed, fitting over the window securely due to a robust elastic band and the high-quality, stretchable nylon/spandex mesh material. Key Features: Large-size sun shades suitable for diverse vehicles Easy installation process requiring no suction cups UV and heat protection, preventing car interior overheating Full window coverage with no sun leaks for complete sun-blocking Dual-layered stretchy mesh fabric for optimal protection and breathability Window functionality is maintained – can be rolled down with shade in place Invisible from the outside, providing privacy, while transparent from the inside for an unimpeded view Comes with a convenient carry bag for easy storage The unique fabric of these shades not only blocks out the sun but also reduces the need for air conditioning, promoting a healthier and more comfortable environment for everyone inside. L/Car Sun Shades That Fit Most SUV’s Windows Buy on Amazon JASVIC Car Windshield Sun Shade Umbrella The JASVIC Car Windshield Sun Shade Umbrella is designed for SUVs, passenger cars, pickups, wagons, and sedans, providing a cool, comfortable driving environment by effectively blocking sunlight. It’s particularly designed with durability and functionality in mind. Crafted from high-hardness steel, the sunshade umbrella boasts high levels of heat insulation and UV blockage. This ensures longevity and reliable use. With its firm skeletal structure, it stays sturdy even under challenging weather conditions. Key Features Constructed from durable aviation-grade materials for long-lasting use 10 strong skeleton structures for increased durability and stability Effectively blocks sunlight, protecting seats and dashboard from sun damage Foldable and easy to open and close, ensuring convenience Universal size of 57″*33″ is suitable for most passenger cars, SUVs, and sedans Heat insulation and UV-blocking capabilities Space-efficient design that is easy to store when not in use “Umbrella” opening mechanism allows for easy set-up and removal the JASVIC Car Windshield Sun Shade Umbrella provides an optimal solution for maintaining a cool and comfortable driving environment with its simple yet effective design. JASVIC Car Windshield Sun Shade Umbrella Buy on Amazon Understanding How Sun Shades for Car Windows Work Sun shades for car windows are more than a simple covering. They are thoughtfully designed to perform a complex task – protecting your car from the heat of the sun. Understanding their functionality can help you appreciate their value and make an informed purchase decision. The functionality of Sun Shades for Car Windows Sun shades operate by blocking and reflecting the sun’s rays. The heat and light from the sun that strikes the sunshade are either absorbed or reflected back. The degree to which this happens depends on the material and color of the sun shade. The result is a cooler, more comfortable interior and protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The sunshade’s design also plays a part in its functionality. Some sun shades are static, meant to be placed and left in one position. Others are retractable, allowing for easy adjustment based on the sun’s position. Knowing how a sunshade works can help you use it to its fullest potential. Material Used in the Manufacturing of Sun Shades Materials used in sun shades have a significant impact on their performance. The most common materials include nylon, polyester, and vinyl. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to reflect sunlight. Some sun shades also use a metalized polyester film for enhanced sun reflection. The quality of the material directly affects the lifespan of the sunshade. High-quality materials are more resistant to wear and tear, ensuring your sunshade lasts longer. Investing in a sunshade made of durable, high-quality material is always recommended. The Process of Heat Reflection and Absorption Heat reflection and absorption are the key mechanisms that make sun shades effective. The heat from the sun’s rays is primarily absorbed by the dark colors of the sun shade. It is then dissipated into the air before it can enter the car. On the other hand, the reflective surface of the sun shade sends a significant portion of the sun’s rays back, preventing heat build-up. The balance between heat reflection and absorption is crucial in determining a sun shade’s effectiveness. Sun shades that reflect more heat are usually more efficient. Therefore, consider how well it can reflect and absorb heat when choosing a sun shade. Key Benefits of Sun Shades for Car Windows Sun shades offer numerous benefits that go beyond just blocking the sun’s rays. They protect your vehicle, make your ride more comfortable, and can even contribute to fuel efficiency. Protection from Harmful UV Rays Sun shades provide an essential protective barrier against harmful UV rays. These rays can cause harm to both passengers and the interior of the car. By blocking UV rays, sun shades prevent skin damage and the fading of car interiors. Moreover, it’s more than just about protecting the upholstery. Prolonged UV exposure can damage the dashboard, leading to cracks and discoloration. With sun shades, you add an extra layer of protection, keeping your car’s interior in top shape for longer. Maintaining Car Interior Temperature Another significant benefit of sun shades is their ability to maintain a cooler interior temperature. On a hot day, the inside of your car can heat up to dangerous levels. Sun shades reduce this heat build-up by reflecting sunlight and your car’s air conditioner won’t have to work as hard, leading to increased fuel efficiency. Plus, stepping into a cool car is always more comfortable than getting into a sweltering vehicle. Increasing Lifespan of Car Interiors Sun shades also extend the lifespan of your car’s interiors. By blocking out the sun, they prevent excessive heating that can lead to material degradation. This helps maintain the color and condition of your upholstery, preserving your car’s aesthetic appeal. The increased durability is especially advantageous for preserving your vehicle’s resale value. A well-kept interior is likely to attract potential buyers. Thus, a modest investment in sun shades for car windows can provide significant long-term advantages. A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Sun Shades for Car Windows Choosing the right sunshades for your car windows requires a bit of know-how. It’s not just about picking the first option you come across. A variety of factors come into play, such as size and fit, material quality, and the effectiveness of the sun shades. Understanding these elements will help guide your decision, ensuring you select sun shades that serve their purpose well. Let’s explore these factors further to give you a clearer picture of what to look for. Understanding the Right Size and Fit Ensuring your chosen sun shades are the right size and fit for your car windows is vital. Ill-fitting sun shades can leave gaps where sunlight can sneak in, defeating their purpose. This is why you need to measure your windows accurately before making a purchase. Use a standard tape measure and note down the dimensions. It’s always better to have sun shades that fit just right to maximize their sun-blocking potential. In addition to size, the fitting mechanism is also important. Some sun shades stick to the windows with suction cups or static cling. Others may require a more permanent installation. Choose a fitting mechanism that suits your preferences and the kind of windows your car has. Remember, a well-fitting sun shade is crucial to achieving optimal sun protection. Material Considerations The material of the sun shades plays a significant role in their effectiveness. Some common materials include nylon, polyester, and vinyl. These materials are favored due to their durability and ability to reflect sunlight. When choosing sun shades, opt for those made with high-quality materials. They might cost a little more, but their superior performance and longevity make them worth the investment. Apart from the material itself, pay attention to the color and design of the sun shades. Reflective and light colors tend to bounce off more sunlight, keeping the interior cooler. Also, check if the material is UV-resistant. UV-resistant materials not only protect the car’s interior but also the passengers from harmful UV rays. Thus, the right material can significantly boost the performance of your sun shades. Evaluation of Effectiveness and Durability Evaluating the effectiveness and durability of sunshades is key. Good sun shades should block a significant percentage of sunlight, preventing your car’s interior from overheating. Look for sun shades that advertise a high UV protection rating. This indicates that they can effectively block harmful UV rays. Durability is another factor that should not be overlooked. Sun shades will be exposed to harsh sunlight regularly. Consequently, they should be made of durable materials that can withstand this exposure without degrading. Check customer reviews to see how well the sun shades have held up over time. Remember, investing in durable sun shades will ensure you get reliable sun protection for a longer period. Installation and Care Tips for Sun Shades Once you’ve purchased your sunshades, it’s crucial to understand how to install and care for them properly. Correct installation ensures they function optimally, while regular care can prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your sunshades. How to Install Sun Shades Properly Proper installation of sun shades is crucial for their effectiveness. You must ensure they cover the entire window without any gaps. Start by cleaning your car windows thoroughly. Dirt or debris can prevent the sun shades from sticking properly. Once clean, attach the sun shades according to the instructions provided. Different types of sunshades may have different installation methods. Some use suction cups or static cling, while others may need to be inserted between the window and the door frame. Regardless of the type, make sure the sunshades are firmly in place before you start driving. Also, check regularly to ensure they haven’t moved or slipped. A well-installed sun shade will provide superior sun protection. Tips for Maintaining Your Sun Shades Maintaining your sun shades can significantly extend their lifespan. Regularly clean them to remove dust and grime. This can be done using a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals as they may damage the sunshade’s material. Proper storage is also vital when the sunshades are not in use. Most sun shades are designed to be easily folded or rolled for storage. Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from heat and moisture. Remember, caring for your sun shades ensures they continue offering efficient sun protection for longer. Potential Damages and How to Fix Them Like any car accessory, sun shades for car windows can become damaged over time. They might tear, warp, or lose their suction ability. It’s important to regularly check your sun shades for any signs of damage. Detecting issues early enables prompt repairs and helps prevent further deterioration. If your sunshades are damaged, try to fix them promptly. Small tears can be fixed using tape or adhesive. If the damage is extensive, replacing the sun shades entirely might be best. Remember, a damaged sun shade will not provide optimal sun protection. Therefore, ensuring your sun shades are in good condition is key to maintaining a cool and comfortable car interior. The Environmental Impact of Sun Shades for Car Windows Sun shades for car windows aren’t just beneficial for your vehicle and comfort; they also positively impact the environment. By reducing the need for air conditioning and helping maintain your car’s interiors, they contribute to overall sustainability. Let’s delve deeper into how sun shades help us be more environmentally conscious. Reduction in Air Conditioning Usage One of the primary ways sun shades help the environment is by reducing reliance on air conditioning. With sun shades, your car doesn’t heat up as much, which means less work for your air conditioner. This leads to lower fuel consumption, as running the air conditioner constantly can be a significant drain on your fuel tank. By using sun shades, you can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Less fuel usage translates to fewer carbon emissions, which is beneficial for the environment. While it might seem like a small contribution, every bit counts regarding combating climate change. Preservation of Car Interiors Sun shades also contribute to environmental sustainability by preserving your car’s interiors. Sun damage can cause your upholstery and dashboard to fade or crack, which might prompt you to replace these parts prematurely. Replacing car parts costs you money and generates waste that ends up in landfills. By preventing sun damage, sun shades can help prolong the lifespan of your car’s interiors. This means less waste generated and fewer resources used for replacement parts. In this way, sun shades indirectly contribute to sustainability and a more circular economy. Impact on Fuel Efficiency Apart from reducing air conditioning usage, sun shades also contribute to fuel efficiency in another way. When your car interior is cooler, reaching a comfortable temperature takes less time and energy. This means your car’s engine doesn’t have to work as hard, which results in better fuel efficiency. Better fuel efficiency is not only good for your wallet but also for the environment. It means fewer trips to the gas station and, therefore, less overall fuel consumption. In this way, sun shades can help reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Aesthetic Appeal of Sun Shades for Car Windows Sun shades for car windows aren’t just functional – they can also be stylish. With many designs and styles available, you can choose sun shades that complement your car’s aesthetics. Let’s explore how sunshades can enhance your car’s visual appeal while serving a practical purpose. Various Styles and Designs Sun shades come in a wide range of styles and designs. You can find everything from simple and sleek black shades to ones adorned with colorful designs and popular characters. It’s all about personal preference – choose a design that suits your personality and car’s aesthetic. Keep in mind that while aesthetics matter, they should not interfere with the functionality of the sun shades for car windows. Always make sure that your sun shades effectively block sunlight and fit your car windows correctly. Aim for a balance between style and practicality to achieve the best outcome. Customized Sun Shades Consider customized sun shades if you want to take aesthetics a step further. Many companies offer customization options, allowing you to create sunshades that are uniquely yours. You can choose colors and patterns or even get personal photos or messages printed on them. Customized sun shades can add a personal touch to your car. They allow you to express your style and make your car stand out from the crowd. However, as with standard sun shades, ensure your customized ones are also functional and durable, providing the necessary sun protection. Reflecting Personal Style Choosing the right sunshades allows you to reflect your style. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something bold and colorful, a sunshade out there matches your taste. It’s one way to make your car feel more personalized and ‘you.’ Your car is a reflection of your style and personality. So why not extend that to your sunshades? Choose shades that protect against the sun and make a style statement. After all, practicality and style can go hand in hand regarding sun shades for car windows. Sun Shades as Promotional Tools for Businesses Beyond their functional and aesthetic value, sun shades for car windows can serve as effective promotional tools for businesses. They offer a unique way for businesses to advertise their services, make their brand more visible, and connect with potential customers. Let’s discover how sunshades can become mobile billboards for your business. Brand Visibility and Awareness Sun shades can be an excellent medium for increasing brand visibility. You can create a moving advertisement by customizing sunshades with your company logo, name, or tagline. Every time a car with your sun shades parks in a public place, passersby will see your brand. This consistent visibility can significantly boost brand awareness. It’s an indirect way to introduce your brand to potential customers. While traditional advertising methods can be costly and may not always reach your target audience, branded sunshades provide a cost-effective and impactful alternative. Long-term Advertising Unlike other forms of advertising, sunshades provide long-term exposure. A well-made sun shade can last for years, meaning your brand continues to gain exposure for as long as the sun shade is in use. It’s a one-time investment that keeps giving returns. Moreover, since sun shades are practical items people use regularly, they aren’t perceived as intrusive advertisements. This makes them a more favorable advertising tool compared to more traditional methods. Remember, the key to effective advertising is making it part of the customer’s daily life; sun shades do just that. Connecting with Potential Customers Customized sunshades can also be a unique way to connect with potential customers. For instance, you could offer them as freebies at events or promotions. It’s a functional gift that customers will appreciate and use, keeping your brand at the top of their minds. Additionally, choosing sun shades as promotional items shows that your business cares about customers’ comfort and well-being. This can enhance your brand’s reputation and foster stronger customer connections. Ultimately, promotional sun shades can be an innovative way to make your brand more memorable and liked by your target audience. Child Safety: Sun Shades for Car Windows When it comes to driving with children, sunshades for car windows are not just a luxury but a necessity. They help protect your little ones from harmful UV rays, excess heat, and bright glare, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. Let’s discuss the importance of sun shades for child safety in more detail. Protection from Harmful UV Rays Sun shades are critical in protecting your children from harmful UV rays. While car windows can block some UV rays, they’re ineffective. Sun shades, especially those with a high UPF rating, can offer additional protection, shielding your child’s sensitive skin from harmful sun exposure. Long exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn and may elevate the risk of skin cancer over time. Since children’s skin is particularly sensitive, they are more vulnerable to UV damage. Consequently, using sun shades for car windows is a proactive measure to protect your child’s health. Reducing Heat and Glare Sun shades also help keep the car’s interior cooler, providing a comfortable environment for your children. Overheating can cause discomfort and even lead to heat-related illnesses, especially in younger children. Sun shades to block sunlight, reducing the heat build-up inside your car. Bright sunlight can also cause glare, which can be harsh on your children’s eyes. Sun shades minimize this glare, preventing discomfort or temporary vision impairment. Ensuring a comfortable and glare-free car interior can make the journey more pleasant for your child, reducing fussiness or discomfort during car rides. Enhancing Privacy and Security Sun shades can enhance privacy and security, especially when traveling with children. By blocking the view from outside, they prevent unwanted attention, providing your family with a sense of safety and privacy. This is particularly helpful during nap times when your child can sleep undisturbed. Additionally, sunshades can act as a deterrent for potential break-ins. When the car’s interior isn’t easily visible, there’s less temptation for potential theft. In this way, sun shades contribute to your car’s overall safety and security, providing peace of mind when traveling with children. The Future of Sun Shades for Car Windows As technology advances, so do sun shades for car windows. The future of sun shades looks promising, with innovative designs and features set to enhance their functionality and convenience. Let’s take a look at what the future might hold for sun shades. Smart Sun Shades Smart technology is making its way into sun shades, promising a new level of convenience and effectiveness. Imagine sun shades that automatically adjust based on the intensity of sunlight or temperature inside the car. These smart sun shades could also be integrated with your car’s systems, allowing you to control them through a central console or even a smartphone app. These advancements can make using sun shades even more effortless and efficient. It’s a perfect example of how technology can enhance even the simplest of car accessories. So, keep an eye out for smart sun shades as they become more common in the market. Eco-Friendly Materials As environmental awareness grows, we can anticipate that future sun shades for car windows will be crafted from more sustainable materials. Companies are likely to begin utilizing recycled or biodegradable materials in the production of sunshades. This shift would help minimize the environmental impact associated with both the manufacturing and disposal of sunshades. Consumers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly products, and sun shades are no exception. So, we can anticipate a shift towards more environmentally friendly sun shades in the near future. This is a step forward in making our driving habits more sustainable. Increased Customization With manufacturing and printing technology advancements, we can expect increased customization options for sun shades. This might include high-resolution printing, 3D effects, or even personalized shapes. Such advancements would allow you to make your sun shades one of a kind truly. Increased customization enhances the aesthetic appeal of sun shades and their potential as promotional tools. Businesses can create even more eye-catching and unique sunshades to advertise their brand. The future of sun shades is likely to be not only more functional but also more personalized. FAQs Do sun shades for car windows really work? Yes, sun shades for car windows effectively block a significant amount of sunlight, reducing the heat inside the vehicle and protecting passengers from harmful UV rays. How do I choose the right size sunshade for my car window? To choose the right size sun shade, measure the height and width of your car window. Then, select a sun shade that matches these dimensions for the best fit. Are sun shades for car windows easy to install? Yes, most sunshades are designed for easy installation. They typically use suction cups or static cling to adhere to the window, allowing for quick installation and removal. Can I use sunshades on tinted windows? Yes, you can use sunshades on tinted windows. They provide additional protection against sunlight and heat, complementing the benefits of the tinted windows. Can I drive with the sun shades on? While sun shades for car windows are useful when the vehicle is parked, they should not be applied to the driver or front passenger windows while driving, as they can block visibility. However, certain sun shades designed for rear windows may be used while on the road. Are there sunshades designed specifically for children? Yes, there are sun shades specifically designed for use in rear windows to protect children. They effectively block UV rays and reduce heat, ensuring a comfortable environment for children. Are there different types of sun shades for car windows? Yes, there are various types of sun shades, including roller, accordion, and static cling sun shades. The choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Outdoor Storage Shed Choices for Your Business Pergola Choices for Your Business Best File Storage Boxes for Your Business Best Storage Racks and Shelving Best Home Office Filing Cabinets Image: Amazon This article, "Sun Shades for Car Windows: Cool Picks for Your Vehicle" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Most SEOs are against bidding on branded terms because it is believed that buying paid ads cannibalizes organic traffic and it can also impact attribution for conversions and revenue. Paid advertisers believe there is an uplift in overall traffic. Who…Read more ›View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. Should conjoined twins receive one salary or two? I recently read this article. The summary is that Abby and Brittany are conjoined twins who are fifth grade teachers. They only draw one salary between the two of them because they occupy one position in their school district. I can’t help but feel like this is a little unfair. I understand that they can only physically occupy one classroom at a time but they are two people with two minds who, presumably, both put work into lesson plans, etc. As an avid reader of your website, I am very curious to hear what your take on this situation is. It’s true that the school district is benefiting from the position being filled by two people with two different perspectives and potentially two separate sets of strengths. It’s also true that they’re in a single teacher’s role, meaning that the school district would need to use a second teacher’s salary without that putting a teacher in a second classroom. And realistically, if hiring them meant paying two salaries to fill one position, it would significantly limit their job options because a lot of employers simply wouldn’t hire them. I do think you’d have a potential legal problem if the half-salary they’re each earning is less than minimum wage … but otherwise my take is that the whole system we’ve set up for work isn’t cut out to handle conjoined twins! 2. An acquaintance won’t stop contacting me about a job he was rejected for An acquaintance of mine applied to work at my organization. He got partway through the process and realized through a mutual friend that I work there, so reached out asking if my area was hiring. We are, so I passed his resume along to my manager, as he seemed like a good fit in terms of skills and experience. This landed him an interview. My manager said something was “off” in the interview and he didn’t seem like the right hire, and asked me if I was strongly recommending him. I said no, he’s just an acquaintance. We used to volunteer at the same place for a time a few years ago, but I have never worked with him professionally, nor is he a close friend. So, she informed him we would not be moving forward. That was two months ago. Since that time, he has contacted both me and my manager repeatedly to “follow up,” including emailing my personal email to ask for advice about how to be reconsidered. My manager told him we were no longer filling the position but he still persists, each time explaining how and why he would make a great addition to the team. After responding politely the first time, I am now ignoring his email. However, we do have mutual friends and I am worried we may run into each other, and in fact I likely will see him at an upcoming event. Do I continue to ghost him? I’m not the hiring manager but he got a very clear “we aren’t moving forward” after the interview. I don’t think he realizes these continued attempts to change my manager’s mind are giving a bad impression. You’re not obligated to coach this guy, but since you’re likely to run into him, you could respond to his next email with, “I’m sorry this didn’t work out, but that really is the final answer and you should not keep contacting Jane about it — it’s coming across as too pushy and has no chance of changing the decision.” I might add, “Continuing to contact her will be harmful, not helpful.” If he keeps it up even after that, feel free to go back to ignoring him. 3. How to interpret new daily meetings with my boss I have a fully remote sales job and have been a top performer for the last couple years, though admittedly I have been flagging lately. About a month ago, my boss started scheduling DAILY 30-minute 1-on-1s with me, in addition to our weekly hour. I’m trying to figure out why, and how to respond. The way he framed it, I’m working with some challenging customers right now and could use the extra support, and this will give us a chance to discuss in detail. This kind of makes sense, but I don’t feel like I really uniquely need support compared to others on the team. Two other interpretations were: either this is a warning shot that I’m underperforming (though I’m still otherwise being praised and assigned important work) or he’s concerned that I’m considering quitting (there’s been some drama lately and I don’t think I’ll stay forever, but I’m fine for now). Each interpretation suggests a different approach — if it’s really for my benefit, I should just honestly pick his brain and end early if I don’t need help. If it’s a warning, I need to use the time to show commitment to the work. And if he’s trying to read me, I guess I shouldn’t share any doubts? Since I don’t know why we’re doing this, I try to cover my bases and project a lot of confidence and enthusiasm and progress and frankly, it’s exhausting. Does one of these sound more plausible than the others? What would you do? Any of those is plausible. Do you have the kind of relationship where you can just ask him? Personally, with a boss I had good rapport with, I’d just say, “Can I ask — are we having extra daily meetings because you’re worried about how I’m approaching these clients? Or is there anything else in my work that’s making you concerned?” And depending on how that went, I might say, “If you think it’s helpful to meet daily, I’ll of course do that, but on my end, it works well to keep our weekly hour and just touch base ad hoc if anything comes up that we need to discuss before that.” But otherwise, since you say you haven’t been performing at your usual level and there’s room to get back there, the smartest avenue is to do that. If that’s his concern, you’ll be covering it. However, that’s not about projecting extra confidence and enthusiasm; it’s about the actual work you’re doing; projecting enthusiasm alone is unlikely to take care of it. (And unless something happens that convinces you that definitely not what’s behind the new meetings, it’s safest to assume it could be, and proceed accordingly.) 4. Should cost of living adjustments be prorated based on your start date? Is it normal for cost of living adjustments to be prorated based on employment start date? I work for a nonprofit with employees working remotely across the country (I am one of these). I started working here in July 2024, which was the beginning of the org’s fiscal year. This past fall, the org held town hall meetings to share messaging about the upcoming year: COLA’s would be lower this year, no merit raises, and they revamped how bonuses are done, so no more individual bonuses but rather a team bonus situation. I’m new, so I don’t know how things used to be done and I tried not to worry too much. And of course none of us works at a nonprofit to get rich — I’m biding my time being underpaid just to try to get my federal student loans forgiven. The COLA emails start coming out in early January. My adjustment is 0.58% and includes a note saying, “This COLA acknowledges the 2024 percentage and exceeds the 2025 projected rise in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and is intended to help alleviate the impact this may have on you and your family.” I did the math. That’s only $300 more per year, or $12 per pay cycle. I wrote back and asked if there were perhaps an accounting error, and was told that employees who started after October 1, 2023 do not receive the full 2.5% but rather a prorated amount commensurate with their start date. They said the reason for that is that employees hired in that time period “have a salary amount that takes the current CPI into account, whether by the amount offered or the minimum range amount they are brought in at. By providing a prorated amount for the following year, we are balancing out the total amount for COLA between the two calendar years.” Is this normal? Is this fair? My expenses for the upcoming year are going up way beyond half a percent! There are many things about nonprofit life that make me cry, and the pay is the biggest one of them. It’s not unusual for cost-of-living adjustments to be prorated in that way. The thinking is what they shared: that the salary you came in at already reflected the cost of living at that time, whereas people who have been with the organization longer had their salaries set under different cost-of-living calculations. Whether or not that’s true is a different question, and would depend on whether the salary band for the job you were hired into had changed in the previous year. But it’s pretty common for them to figure that you accepted the salary as a fair one only six months ago. 5. Federal employee grappling with private sector resume I’m a federal employee. If you’ve been watching the news this week, there’s a lot going on in the background that’s making life for federal employees very hard right now. Aside from the obvious, they are making several lists of categories of employees, likely trying to figure out how to get rid of as many of us as possible in big sweeps of layoffs and firings at once. (We’ve been told these lists are being provided with names to the White House.) This has pushed me to try to find a private-sector job for the first time in more than 25 years. I know I need to completely overhaul my resume from a federal format where listing your duties is primary to a corporate one where accomplishments are king. What I’m not sure of is my current position, which I started about 4-5 months ago. I’ve done two big things that will eventually make a difference and have numbers behind them, but they’re not there yet. I know you’ve advised folks in the past to leave these shorter stays off resumes, but I’m concerned about it not looking like I’ve had a job since the summer. How would you advise me to handle this? If this weren’t my current position, I’d just leave it off, but I’m stumped here. Leave your current position on your resume. People will understand why you’re looking right now. And for the two big things you’ve done that don’t have numbers behind them yet, you can still list those! Not all accomplishments can be measured quantitatively, and that’s okay. Just describe as best as you can what you’ve done and what the impact is / why it matters. View the full article

New data from Chadix highlights the growing impact of AI shopping assistants on consumer emotions, revealing that 70% of respondents feel emotionally manipulated by these tools. The study, which surveyed 3,500 U.S. consumers, underscores the emotional triggers driving purchasing decisions, particularly among younger generations. The study found that emotions such as excitement, guilt, and FOMO (fear of missing out) were top factors influencing AI-recommended purchases. According to the findings: 70% of consumers reported emotions driving their AI-recommended purchases. Top emotional triggers include excitement (70%), FOMO (65%), and guilt (55%). 60% admitted to making frequent impulse purchases based on AI suggestions. “Emotional commerce is reshaping the shopping experience,” said Danny Veiga, founder and AI technology strategist at Chadix. “AI shopping assistants have unlocked new ways to engage consumers, but this survey highlights the fine line between personalization and manipulation. Retailers need to tread carefully to maintain trust.” The influence of AI shopping assistants varies significantly across generational lines: Gen Z (18-28): 65% reported making guilt-driven purchases. Millennials (29-44): 35% were primarily driven by excitement. Gen X (45-60): 35% showed steady susceptibility to guilt-based purchases. Baby Boomers (61+): 35% remained skeptical of AI’s emotional influence. The findings also raise ethical concerns about emotional commerce. AI shopping assistants’ ability to personalize recommendations risks crossing boundaries into manipulation, warns Veiga. “AI shopping assistants have an incredible ability to personalize the shopping journey, but there’s a risk of crossing ethical boundaries,” Veiga said. “Retailers should focus on fostering positive emotions like excitement and curiosity rather than exploiting vulnerabilities like guilt and FOMO. When done ethically, emotional commerce can enhance customer trust and loyalty.” Transparency and consumer education emerged as key strategies for addressing these concerns. Veiga emphasized that authenticity and clear communication about AI systems are critical to maintaining consumer trust. Actionable Insights for Retailers To navigate the complexities of emotional commerce, Chadix recommends that retailers: Prioritize Transparency: Be clear about how AI generates recommendations. Leverage Positive Emotions: Focus on excitement and curiosity over guilt or fear. Educate Consumers: Help users understand AI-driven personalization to foster a sense of control. Test Ethical Limits: Regularly audit AI algorithms to prevent manipulative practices. Incorporate Feedback Loops: Allow customers to share input on their AI experiences to improve functionality. “The findings paint a clear picture—AI isn’t just changing how we shop, it’s changing how we feel while shopping,” Veiga added. “With 70% of consumers admitting to emotional influence by AI, we’re seeing a shift from ‘add to cart’ to ‘appeal to heart.’ The real challenge for retailers in 2025 isn’t about making smarter recommendations—it’s about making more responsible ones.” The study was conducted from January 6-20, 2025, with a sample of 3,500 U.S. consumers stratified across age groups. The survey has a margin of error of ±1.7% at a 95% confidence level. Image: Envato This article, "70% of Consumers Report Emotional Influence by AI Shopping Assistants, Study Reveals" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article