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Regulated industries have long faced heightened scrutiny in organic search. This is where “Your Money or Your Life” (YMYL) first took hold. AI Overviews and LLMs like ChatGPT have intensified that scrutiny, expanding both the audience and the consequences. Accuracy and credibility have always mattered for SEO success in regulated sectors, but in today’s AI-driven search environment, the bar is significantly higher. Experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) are not optional for regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and education, which sit squarely within Google’s YMYL territory. In this new search landscape, regulated brands and their SEO strategies can no longer operate in isolation. Up to 72% of B2B buyers report encountering Google’s AI Overviews in search, meaning a brand may be surfaced even when no click occurs. AI models pull information from across the web, unconstrained by traditional source boundaries. Social presence, digital PR, owned content, and discussions on forums such as Reddit and Quora all contribute to how brands are interpreted and cited. Meeting these challenges starts with reinforcing the principles that define effective AI-era SEO for regulated industries. 3 pillars of AI and SEO for regulated verticals The fundamentals of SEO remain unchanged with the rise of AI. What has changed is their importance. In highly regulated sectors, these principles are absolute and nonoptional. 1. Start with trust-by-design content Trust is not just a ranking factor in regulated categories, it’s a requirement. It’s also not evaluated solely on the information published on your website, but on how your brand appears across the web as a whole. A more useful question is: What does your content, wherever it appears, communicate about your trustworthiness? Every piece of content you publish, whether on your website, social platforms, or third-party sites, must follow a content strategy aligned with industry-specific regulations. In addition, the following SEO and AI guidelines should be treated as baseline requirements: Subject matter experts (SMEs) should demonstrate expertise through content creation. Search engines and AI systems recognize credibility through work authored by SMEs who include citations and maintain a documented history of external publications. Accuracy and ongoing maintenance must be evident. Publishing revision histories, updating statistics, and conducting transparent compliance reviews signal accountability and reliability. Authority is built through education, not promotion. White papers and research-driven content establish trust by prioritizing knowledge over marketing. Prioritize E-E-A-T. Google’s Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines state that YMYL pages need to meet the highest E-E-A-T standards. Use AI appropriately with mandatory human oversight. This involves: Requiring human and compliance review before publishing any AI-generated or AI-assisted content, claims, or explanations. Applying required disclaimers and regulatory statements consistently, and ensure privacy and data-handling policies are easy to find and written in plain language. Maintaining strict WCAG and ADA-aligned accessibility standards to support both regulatory compliance and search visibility. 2. Strengthen your technical and structural clarity Technical clarity isn’t just about helping search engines crawl your site any longer. It’s about ensuring that LLMs and AI-driven search features can understand and cite your content. When AI systems surface your content, they rely on clean architecture and accurate fields to deliver compliant, trustworthy information to users. The age-old saying, “keep it simple,” still holds true. The easier you make it for your content to be understood, the easier it will be to share. Structured data as a trust signal The use of structured data enables search engines to identify authors and entities and their connecting relationships. Schema markup functions as a trust-building element. By explicitly defining authorship, organizational entities, and their relationships, you help search engines validate credibility. This is especially important when compliance requires clear attribution of responsibility or expertise. Foundational schema types include: Organization. WebPage. Article. FAQ. Person (for authors). BreadcrumbList. Maintain a clean and crawlable site architecture Another technical aspect to address is maintaining a clean, crawlable architecture for your website. A well-organized structure enhances organic search performance while helping AI models understand the different components. Navigation is logical. Consistent URLs are being used. Limited broken or redirected links on the website. Proper internal linking hierarchy. Implement datePublished and dateModified fields. Don’t forget about accessibility Accessibility, supportive markup, and structured page elements ensure both AI systems and crawlers interpret entities correctly. Implementing these elements enhances your organization’s reputation online and public trust. Alt text for images ARIA labels Descriptive internal linking Transcripts and captions Semantic HTML markup Scannable headings Fast, mobile-friendly experience 3. Build authority and trust across every channel In highly regulated verticals, authority requires far more than backlinks. Building it through PR, content, and optimization depends on coordinated efforts that generate consistent credibility signals. Create credible, expert-driven engagement: Webinars, moderated Q&As, and public education sessions generate trusted content while enabling direct engagement with audiences. These interactions strengthen credibility and create signals AI systems can surface. Expand authority beyond owned channels: Digital PR and external visibility extend authority beyond channels you directly control, including: Citations in industry publications. Mentions in credible forums. Contributions to trusted third-party sites. Demonstrate compliance transparently: Compliance should be visible and verifiable. Publishing statements of compliance, referencing official standards, and linking to governing bodies reinforce credibility. When PR, content, and SEO teams operate in alignment, authority becomes a shared asset. That coordination creates the signals AI-driven search systems rely on to assess expertise and reliability. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Industry-specific AI and SEO strategies While the above fundamentals apply across all industries, each vertical faces distinct challenges in AI-driven search. Visibility alone is not enough. Success depends on aligning SEO and AEO strategies with industry-specific regulatory requirements while maintaining consistent trust signals AI models can recognize and cite. AI-driven search further amplifies these differences. Healthcare content appears most frequently in Google’s AI Overviews, followed by financial services, according to Conductor’s 2026 AEO/GEO Benchmarks Report. These variations reinforce the need for tailored execution rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. The sections below outline practical AI and SEO considerations by vertical. Financial services Trust and transparency are critical. Inaccurate or misleading information can impact personal finances, regulatory standing, and legal liability, raising expectations for precision on AI-driven search surfaces. SEO strategies in this space must balance visibility with strict regulatory compliance. Structured data and clear authorship help reduce the risk of misinformation in a sector where credibility directly influences consumer confidence. Content should reference all applicable regulations, including SEC, FINRA, and GDPR requirements, and include any required disclaimers. Pages should also address common conversational queries, such as: How do I know if a fintech app is secure? How can I check my credit score for free without hurting it? How do I calculate monthly payments for a $400,000 mortgage? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: Organization. Person. FinancialServices or FinancialProduct. LocalBusiness for individual locations. Review. Privacy policies, encryption standards, and fraud-prevention measures should be easy to locate and clearly explained. Healthcare Accuracy has real-world consequences in healthcare. AI systems that pull information from across the web need clear signals that content is medically sound, expert-authored, and kept current. SEO strategies in this space must emphasize E-E-A-T, accessibility standards, and documented compliance to ensure information is reliable for both patients and medical professionals. Content should include required HIPAA and FDA disclaimers, risk-and-benefit statements, and clear distinctions between informational and advisory material. All healthcare content should be authored or reviewed by licensed medical professionals, with credentials displayed prominently. Pages should use natural language to address common questions, including: Which vaccines are recommended for adults over 50? How often should I schedule a routine check-up? Can I use telehealth for follow-up visits? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: MedicalOrganization. Person. MedicalProcedure. MedicalCondition. LocalBusiness for individual locations. MedicalWebPage. MedicalSpecialty. Privacy policies, patient rights, and security practices should be easy to find and clearly communicated. Government and legal Government agencies and law firms must balance two priorities: broad accessibility and strict legal compliance. AI-driven search surfaces favor content that is transparent, easy to navigate, and inclusive, which places greater emphasis on semantic clarity, structured data, and clear attribution to reinforce authority and public accountability. All content should meet WCAG and ADA requirements. Pages should publish clear service descriptions and step-by-step instructions for processes such as permits or voting, written in plain language. Content should also reflect conversational search behavior, addressing questions such as: How do I check if I’m registered to vote? How long does it usually take to settle a personal injury case? How do I apply for a building permit in [City]? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: GovernmentOrganization. Person. Service. LegalService. LocalBusiness for individual locations. Review. Disclaimers should clearly state when content is informational and not legal advice, with prominent links to applicable laws and regulations. Contributing to trusted third-party publications or moderated legal Q&A forums, such as the ABA Journal, can further extend authority signals. Education AI systems regularly surface content from universities, schools, and learning platforms to answer questions about admissions, programs, and curriculum. SEO strategies in education should emphasize institutional credibility and use structured data to clearly connect programs, faculty, and resources in ways AI systems can interpret and prospective students can trust. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits disclosing personally identifiable student information and restricts the use of unauthorized student testimonials. Content must reflect those constraints while still answering common questions using natural language, such as: How do I apply for scholarships at [University Name]? What’s the average class size for undergraduate programs? Can I transfer credits from another college? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: EducationalOrganization. CollegeOrUniversity, School, ElementarySchool, or HighSchool. EducationalOccupationalProgram. Course. Event. Person. Institutions can reinforce credibility by highlighting alumni outcomes, job placement rates, and career counseling services. Video tours should include transcripts or captions to support accessibility. Authority as the differentiator in regulated AI search In regulated sectors, AI and SEO are no longer just about visibility. They determine how accuracy, credibility, and compliance are assessed in environments where generative systems surface information directly to users. Authority is the differentiator. Brands that demonstrate expertise, maintain compliance, and engage responsibly are more likely to be cited and trusted by AI-driven search systems. In an AI-first search landscape, authority functions as currency, and organizations that invest in it consistently will be best positioned to succeed. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Google Nest Wifi Pro is currently $99.99 on Amazon, which is half off its usual $199.99 price, and according to price trackers, the lowest it's ever been. At this price, it’s a solid entry point for anyone looking to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6E without diving into full-blown mesh systems or complicated installs. The router itself is designed to be discreet—no antennas, no buttons, just a small LED that quietly tells you if things are working. Setup happens through the Google Home app and takes only a few minutes. Google Nest WiFi Pro $99.99 at Amazon $199.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $99.99 at Amazon $199.99 Save $100.00 Performance holds up well for everyday use. It supports tri-band wifi, including 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and the newer 6GHz band, though you can’t manually select which one your device connects to. There’s no separate network name for the 6GHz band; the router decides automatically using band steering. This isn’t ideal for people who want direct control, especially if you're hoping to get the most out of newer Wi-Fi 6E devices. Still, it uses modern features to keep speeds consistent. MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) allows it to communicate with several devices at once, instead of cycling through them one at a time. OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) improves efficiency by letting the router serve multiple users with different bandwidth needs at the same time. And 160MHz channel support means it can transmit more data in a shorter amount of time, which is great for streaming, gaming, or transferring large files. It also supports Matter and Thread, which makes it a good match for newer smart home setups. That said, it’s worth noting that there are no USB ports, and Ethernet is capped at 1Gbps, so no multi-gig options here. You also can’t prioritize devices or set age-based filters as you can on some competing mesh systems, notes this PCMag review. Google does include basic parental controls (SafeSearch filtering and scheduled access), a guest network, and notification options, but it lacks any real security software like malware blocking. Power users will probably feel boxed in by the lack of advanced customization. But for most people, especially those already using Google’s ecosystem, it’s an easy, unobtrusive way to get faster, more reliable internet in their space. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Dell 15 DC15255 (AMD Ryzen 7 7730U, 1TB SSD, 16GB RAM) — $519.99 (List Price $688.99) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet (Silver) — $159.99 (List Price $219.99) Google Pixel 10 Pro 128GB Unlocked Phone (Obsidian) — $799.00 (List Price $999.00) Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 — $279.99 (List Price $349.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

A reader writes: I am in a front-line commercial role at a tech start-up. I am responsible for bringing in new business, and this story pertains to my colleague Zayne, who manages a lot of the back-end, integrations side of things. Zayne is fantastic at what he does. The guy might actually be a genius, and I don’t say that lightly. He has a ton of ideas, seems to really love what he does, and is good at it. He’s also very open about his mental health, which I admire but it can admittedly take me back sometimes. I grew up in a family where we often don’t share things like that, and it’s something I’m trying to unpack as an adult, but even so I find myself at a loss for words when Zayne will share details about his mental state that I’d struggle to open up about to my closest friends. When I met him a week into joining the company, he told me he’d previously been suicidal. I’m aware that mindset may be coloring my judgment here. We just had a major tradeshow, which is important for us as events are our biggest source of leads. While I’m the only person whose job description is to bring in business, these events are really all-hands on deck. Zayne came along too and, while he isn’t commercially minded, he does know everything there is to know about the product so he’s great to have in case conversations get too technical. At one point in the event, there were only two of us on the stand, and I was speaking to a lot of people passing by whereas Zayne was hanging back, which I get as he’s not in his element the way I am at these events, though it was annoying to see potential clients slip away when I was engaged in talking. At one point, I started a conversation with two senior leaders. I was trying to uncover what their pain points were and if we were a fit, as well as build rapport. Zayne joined my conversation, which to be honest I didn’t need as I wanted to guide it a specific way, but I wasn’t about to tell him to back off in front of the two prospects. They were talking about their workplace initiatives and mentioned they supported mental health awareness. I was going to mention what our own software does to support this, but Zayne jumped in and started talking about his own mental health, mentioning that he’d experienced a dissociative episode on route to the conference and how he’d been struggling with this for years. I found this super inappropriate and was basically stunned into silence because of how uncomfortable I was. The two prospects began comforting him, but I sensed from their tone and body language that they were also taken off-guard by this and didn’t really know what to say, and he just kept going. The conversation came back round to work eventually and Zayne had some valuable insight on the technical side of things. After they left and I gathered their details, he turned to me and said brightly, “Wow, that went great!” I wasn’t sure what to say so I just agreed, but I wanted to kick him for being so oblivious. It’s one thing saying that to me as a coworker, but I felt it was inappropriate to say something that personal to strangers, never mind strangers we want to sell to. I’m not sure whether I should mention this to our boss. I don’t know how much of my view on this is colored by my own discomfort, but also because I know how important it is for us as a start-up to get new clients in — and quite frankly that could have cost me commission. Should I mention it? If so, how? Now that we’re growing, we don’t necessarily need all of us on the stand but I know Zayne enjoys these events. I also don’t want to shame him for having mental health issues. Is there a way to tactfully bring it up? Should I? Yes, you should talk to your boss and share what happened and your sense that the prospective clients weren’t entirely comfortable. In an ideal world, your boss would talk forthrightly with Zayne about boundaries when he’s representing the company. She may or may not be a good enough manager to do that skillfully, but I do think you need to let her know what happened since you witnessed it firsthand … and particularly since part of your job is managing prospect relationships and this risks impacting them. The idea isn’t to reinforce a stigma around mental health, but rather to reinforce the idea that there’s a time and place for some topics. Zayne also shouldn’t be talking about politics, religion, or sex with business contacts, or going into heavy detail about a medical condition or his divorce or an estrangement from his family. It’s not that those topics are taboo or wrong or that they’re inappropriate across the board; it’s that they’re inappropriate in a business setting — because they risk alienating people who feel differently, are too heavy for a work context, and take the focus way off the thing you want it on. It’s not just the latter, of course — you might have an in-depth conversation about, I don’t know, sports as a way of building rapport with a client — it’s that they’re not what people are expecting (or usually wanting) in a work context and have a high risk of bringing people down. A lot of people understand this intuitively — especially people in a relationship-heavy job like yours — but others don’t and need explicit coaching on it. The post should I talk to my boss about my coworker’s oversharing about mental health? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Crude revenues to be funnelled to American banks as Washington lifts some sanctions on CaracasView the full article

When you’re considering investing in a franchise, grasping the key factors in your franchise price list is crucial. Initial franchise fees, ongoing royalty fees, and additional costs can greatly influence your budget. You’ll likewise need to account for hidden expenses and working capital requirements. By examining these elements closely, you can better prepare for the financial responsibilities that come with your investment. So, what should you focus on first? Key Takeaways Initial franchise fees typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, covering rights to trademarks and training. Ongoing royalty fees, usually 4% to 12% of gross sales, impact profit margins and should be included in financial forecasts. Additional costs, such as real estate buildout and ongoing marketing fees, must be considered for accurate budgeting. Technology and professional service costs should be factored into the price list to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Establishing a contingency fund of at least 10% of the overall budget provides financial stability during unexpected challenges. Understanding Initial Franchise Fees When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehending the initial franchise fee is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This fee typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the brand’s strength and market demand. It’s a one-time payment to the franchisor, granting you the right to use their trademarks, business systems, and operational support. To comply with FTC rules, the fee must exceed $500. As the initial franchise fee often covers training, advertising, and location approval costs, it doesn’t include additional startup costs like real estate or inventory. Some franchises, such as The Groutsmith, offer lower initial franchise fees starting at $19,900, making them more accessible for prospective franchisees looking to enter the market. Ongoing Royalty Fees and Their Impact When you enter into a franchise agreement, ongoing royalty fees typically range from 4% to 12% of your gross sales. These fees can greatly influence your profit margins. It’s crucial to incorporate these costs into your budgeting process, as they fund the support services that help you run your franchise more effectively. Comprehending how these fees work will allow you to better manage your financial health and guarantee your business remains profitable. Royalty Fee Percentages Explained Royalty fees are a significant component of the franchise business model, directly impacting a franchisee’s financial health. Comprehending royalty fee percentages explained is imperative for your financial planning. Typically, these ongoing fees range from 4% to 12% of gross sales, depending on the franchise brand and industry standards. Collected monthly, they fund critical services like marketing and administrative support at the franchisor’s headquarters. Some franchises, like Groutsmith, opt for a fixed flat rate to guarantee fairness among franchise owners. These fees are essential for operational support and brand growth, allowing you to benefit from collective advertising efforts and system improvements. Ignoring ongoing royalty fees can severely affect your profitability and cash flow management. Impact on Profit Margins Ongoing royalty fees represent a vital factor that can considerably influence your profit margins as a franchisee. Typically ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, these fees can take a significant bite out of your profits. For example, if you generate $500,000 in annual sales and pay a 6% royalty, that’s $30,000 deducted from your earnings each year. Although these fees support valuable services like marketing and operational assistance, they can strain your bottom line if not managed wisely. It’s important to factor these costs into your financial forecasts and break-even calculations. Furthermore, reviewing the franchise royalty fees list can help you understand which franchises offer fixed rates, like The Groutsmith, providing more predictable expenses compared to fluctuating percentages. Budgeting for Ongoing Costs Budgeting for ongoing costs is vital for franchisees aiming to maintain financial stability and profitability. Ongoing royalty fees, ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, can greatly impact your profit margins. Furthermore, expect to budget for annual royalty and advertising fees for Chick-fil-A, which can add another 2% to 5% of revenue. Failing to account for these fees can lead to cash flow challenges. Comprehending your payment structure is important for accurate budgeting. Planning for fluctuations in sales performance can safeguard your franchise’s long-term success. Additional Costs to Consider When you’re evaluating the costs of starting a franchise, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial franchise fee. There are several additional costs to evaluate that can greatly affect your budget. Real estate and buildout expenses usually range from $50 to $150 per square foot, impacting startup costs. You’ll additionally need to account for ongoing royalty fees, typically 4% to 12% of gross sales, and marketing fees that can be 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, working capital should cover 3 to 6 months of operational expenses to guarantee stability. Finally, don’t forget about technology fees, which can take up 4% to 8% of your revenue. These factors should all be included in your franchise fees list for accurate financial planning. Hidden Expenses That Can Arise When operating a franchise, you need to be aware of hidden expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. For instance, working capital requirements are essential for managing slow periods, whereas technology and software fees can add significant costs to your budget. Furthermore, unanticipated operational setbacks, such as equipment repairs, can strain your finances if you haven’t planned for them in advance. Working Capital Requirements Working capital is a crucial aspect of managing a franchise, especially when unexpected expenses arise. It’s important to maintain a working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2, ensuring you avoid cash flow issues. Here are some hidden costs to take into account when creating your franchise cost list: Unforeseen repairs that can disrupt operations Fluctuating supply prices impacting your budget Seasonal staffing changes that might require additional funds Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses to keep your franchise running smoothly. Accurately estimating fixed costs like rent and utilities, along with variable costs such as payroll and supplies, will help you determine your working capital requirements. Consulting a financial advisor can further refine your estimates and budgeting strategies. Technology and Software Fees As you navigate the intricacies of running a franchise, it is essential to take into account the technology and software fees that can greatly affect your budget. These costs can vary considerably based on your specific needs. Expense Type Estimated Cost Range Notes Point-of-Sale Systems $20,000 – $90,000 Depends on franchise needs IT Support Fees 4% – 8% of revenue Ongoing operational expense Franchise Management Software Starting at $30,000 Increases with complexity Cloud-Based Systems Typically more affordable Budget for integration costs Including technology and software fees in your financial planning is vital to avoid unexpected expenses that can impact cash flow. Unexpected Operational Setbacks Running a franchise involves more than just managing technology and software costs; unexpected operational setbacks can likewise considerably impact your financial stability. These hidden expenses can disrupt your carefully planned franchise price list and lead to serious cash flow issues. Unanticipated maintenance or repair costs can drain reserves. Compliance or regulatory fees may arise, impacting profitability. Market fluctuations or supply chain disruptions can affect long-term planning. To safeguard your business, it’s essential to budget for these unexpected operational setbacks. Allocate a reserve for working capital to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses and consider ongoing IT support fees. Working Capital Requirements Establishing adequate working capital requirements is vital for any franchise operation, as it provides the necessary financial cushion to cover everyday expenses. Ideally, your working capital should cover three to six months of operating costs, which include both fixed and variable expenses. A working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2 is advisable, ensuring you have enough liquidity for daily operations. To accurately assess your working capital requirements, estimate your monthly expenses, factoring in rent, utilities, payroll, and supplies. Consulting a NerdWallet financial advisor can help you establish customized estimates and benchmarks based on industry standards. A reserve of working capital is important for managing cash flow, particularly during slow sales periods or when unexpected expenses arise. Technology and Software Costs When considering the costs associated with technology and software for your franchise, it’s vital to recognize that these expenses can considerably impact your overall budget and operational efficiency. For instance, a POS system can set you back between $20,000 and $90,000 based on your needs. Cloud-based systems offer more affordable options with superior integration capabilities. Furthermore, franchise management software starts around $30,000, increasing with complexity. Don’t forget the ongoing IT support fees, typically 4% to 8% of your revenue, which can strain your budget. A thorough technology budget should also include: Licensing and customization costs Maintenance expenses Cybersecurity measures These elements are critical for your fast food franchise cost list and overall franchise success. Professional Services and Pre-Opening Expenses Steering through the professional services and pre-opening expenses for your franchise can be vital to a successful launch. Budgeting for professional services related to site selection and lease negotiations is important, as expert guidance can greatly reduce your overall startup costs. Furthermore, you’ll need to plan for major pre-opening expenses like rent, inventory, and marketing efforts, which are key for building brand awareness and attracting initial customers. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during this phase, ensuring you maintain financial flexibility. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to the services or goods you offer, ensuring they meet customer demand. Price involves setting competitive fees and royalties that benefit both you and the franchisor. Place focuses on selecting ideal locations based on market research, enhancing accessibility. Finally, Promotion entails the marketing strategies that attract and retain customers, including advertising and brand messaging, crucial for franchise success. What Factors Contribute to the High Cost of Maintaining a Franchise? Several factors contribute to the high cost of maintaining a franchise. You’ll face ongoing royalty fees, typically between 4% to 12% of gross sales, along with marketing fees of 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, operational costs, like technology and software, can reach 4% to 8%. Equipment and inventory expenses can vary widely, often requiring significant upfront investment. Don’t forget to budget for hidden costs, which can strain your finances during slow periods. How Does Franchise Pricing Work? Franchise pricing involves several components, starting with an initial franchise fee that typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000. You’ll additionally encounter ongoing royalties, which are typically 4% to 12% of your gross sales, plus potential marketing fees of 2% to 5%. It’s essential to take into account additional costs, like real estate, equipment, and working capital. Reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) will help you understand all fees and costs before making an investment. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It only costs $10,000 to own a Chick-fil-A franchise since the company covers most startup expenses, including real estate and equipment, which can exceed $1 million. This low initial fee attracts franchisees, but you’ll need substantial cash reserves for ongoing operational costs. Chick-fil-A likewise requires direct involvement in daily operations, ensuring high customer service standards. The brand’s strong recognition and customer loyalty further improve sales potential, making it a compelling opportunity. Conclusion In summary, grasping the key factors of your franchise price list is crucial for making informed financial decisions. By carefully evaluating initial fees, ongoing royalties, and additional costs, along with hidden expenses and working capital needs, you can better prepare for your investment. Don’t overlook technology expenses or professional services required before opening, as these can greatly impact your budget. A thorough analysis of these elements will help you achieve financial viability and success in your franchise expedition. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Key Factors in Your Franchise Price List" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re considering investing in a franchise, grasping the key factors in your franchise price list is crucial. Initial franchise fees, ongoing royalty fees, and additional costs can greatly influence your budget. You’ll likewise need to account for hidden expenses and working capital requirements. By examining these elements closely, you can better prepare for the financial responsibilities that come with your investment. So, what should you focus on first? Key Takeaways Initial franchise fees typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, covering rights to trademarks and training. Ongoing royalty fees, usually 4% to 12% of gross sales, impact profit margins and should be included in financial forecasts. Additional costs, such as real estate buildout and ongoing marketing fees, must be considered for accurate budgeting. Technology and professional service costs should be factored into the price list to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Establishing a contingency fund of at least 10% of the overall budget provides financial stability during unexpected challenges. Understanding Initial Franchise Fees When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehending the initial franchise fee is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This fee typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the brand’s strength and market demand. It’s a one-time payment to the franchisor, granting you the right to use their trademarks, business systems, and operational support. To comply with FTC rules, the fee must exceed $500. As the initial franchise fee often covers training, advertising, and location approval costs, it doesn’t include additional startup costs like real estate or inventory. Some franchises, such as The Groutsmith, offer lower initial franchise fees starting at $19,900, making them more accessible for prospective franchisees looking to enter the market. Ongoing Royalty Fees and Their Impact When you enter into a franchise agreement, ongoing royalty fees typically range from 4% to 12% of your gross sales. These fees can greatly influence your profit margins. It’s crucial to incorporate these costs into your budgeting process, as they fund the support services that help you run your franchise more effectively. Comprehending how these fees work will allow you to better manage your financial health and guarantee your business remains profitable. Royalty Fee Percentages Explained Royalty fees are a significant component of the franchise business model, directly impacting a franchisee’s financial health. Comprehending royalty fee percentages explained is imperative for your financial planning. Typically, these ongoing fees range from 4% to 12% of gross sales, depending on the franchise brand and industry standards. Collected monthly, they fund critical services like marketing and administrative support at the franchisor’s headquarters. Some franchises, like Groutsmith, opt for a fixed flat rate to guarantee fairness among franchise owners. These fees are essential for operational support and brand growth, allowing you to benefit from collective advertising efforts and system improvements. Ignoring ongoing royalty fees can severely affect your profitability and cash flow management. Impact on Profit Margins Ongoing royalty fees represent a vital factor that can considerably influence your profit margins as a franchisee. Typically ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, these fees can take a significant bite out of your profits. For example, if you generate $500,000 in annual sales and pay a 6% royalty, that’s $30,000 deducted from your earnings each year. Although these fees support valuable services like marketing and operational assistance, they can strain your bottom line if not managed wisely. It’s important to factor these costs into your financial forecasts and break-even calculations. Furthermore, reviewing the franchise royalty fees list can help you understand which franchises offer fixed rates, like The Groutsmith, providing more predictable expenses compared to fluctuating percentages. Budgeting for Ongoing Costs Budgeting for ongoing costs is vital for franchisees aiming to maintain financial stability and profitability. Ongoing royalty fees, ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, can greatly impact your profit margins. Furthermore, expect to budget for annual royalty and advertising fees for Chick-fil-A, which can add another 2% to 5% of revenue. Failing to account for these fees can lead to cash flow challenges. Comprehending your payment structure is important for accurate budgeting. Planning for fluctuations in sales performance can safeguard your franchise’s long-term success. Additional Costs to Consider When you’re evaluating the costs of starting a franchise, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial franchise fee. There are several additional costs to evaluate that can greatly affect your budget. Real estate and buildout expenses usually range from $50 to $150 per square foot, impacting startup costs. You’ll additionally need to account for ongoing royalty fees, typically 4% to 12% of gross sales, and marketing fees that can be 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, working capital should cover 3 to 6 months of operational expenses to guarantee stability. Finally, don’t forget about technology fees, which can take up 4% to 8% of your revenue. These factors should all be included in your franchise fees list for accurate financial planning. Hidden Expenses That Can Arise When operating a franchise, you need to be aware of hidden expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. For instance, working capital requirements are essential for managing slow periods, whereas technology and software fees can add significant costs to your budget. Furthermore, unanticipated operational setbacks, such as equipment repairs, can strain your finances if you haven’t planned for them in advance. Working Capital Requirements Working capital is a crucial aspect of managing a franchise, especially when unexpected expenses arise. It’s important to maintain a working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2, ensuring you avoid cash flow issues. Here are some hidden costs to take into account when creating your franchise cost list: Unforeseen repairs that can disrupt operations Fluctuating supply prices impacting your budget Seasonal staffing changes that might require additional funds Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses to keep your franchise running smoothly. Accurately estimating fixed costs like rent and utilities, along with variable costs such as payroll and supplies, will help you determine your working capital requirements. Consulting a financial advisor can further refine your estimates and budgeting strategies. Technology and Software Fees As you navigate the intricacies of running a franchise, it is essential to take into account the technology and software fees that can greatly affect your budget. These costs can vary considerably based on your specific needs. Expense Type Estimated Cost Range Notes Point-of-Sale Systems $20,000 – $90,000 Depends on franchise needs IT Support Fees 4% – 8% of revenue Ongoing operational expense Franchise Management Software Starting at $30,000 Increases with complexity Cloud-Based Systems Typically more affordable Budget for integration costs Including technology and software fees in your financial planning is vital to avoid unexpected expenses that can impact cash flow. Unexpected Operational Setbacks Running a franchise involves more than just managing technology and software costs; unexpected operational setbacks can likewise considerably impact your financial stability. These hidden expenses can disrupt your carefully planned franchise price list and lead to serious cash flow issues. Unanticipated maintenance or repair costs can drain reserves. Compliance or regulatory fees may arise, impacting profitability. Market fluctuations or supply chain disruptions can affect long-term planning. To safeguard your business, it’s essential to budget for these unexpected operational setbacks. Allocate a reserve for working capital to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses and consider ongoing IT support fees. Working Capital Requirements Establishing adequate working capital requirements is vital for any franchise operation, as it provides the necessary financial cushion to cover everyday expenses. Ideally, your working capital should cover three to six months of operating costs, which include both fixed and variable expenses. A working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2 is advisable, ensuring you have enough liquidity for daily operations. To accurately assess your working capital requirements, estimate your monthly expenses, factoring in rent, utilities, payroll, and supplies. Consulting a NerdWallet financial advisor can help you establish customized estimates and benchmarks based on industry standards. A reserve of working capital is important for managing cash flow, particularly during slow sales periods or when unexpected expenses arise. Technology and Software Costs When considering the costs associated with technology and software for your franchise, it’s vital to recognize that these expenses can considerably impact your overall budget and operational efficiency. For instance, a POS system can set you back between $20,000 and $90,000 based on your needs. Cloud-based systems offer more affordable options with superior integration capabilities. Furthermore, franchise management software starts around $30,000, increasing with complexity. Don’t forget the ongoing IT support fees, typically 4% to 8% of your revenue, which can strain your budget. A thorough technology budget should also include: Licensing and customization costs Maintenance expenses Cybersecurity measures These elements are critical for your fast food franchise cost list and overall franchise success. Professional Services and Pre-Opening Expenses Steering through the professional services and pre-opening expenses for your franchise can be vital to a successful launch. Budgeting for professional services related to site selection and lease negotiations is important, as expert guidance can greatly reduce your overall startup costs. Furthermore, you’ll need to plan for major pre-opening expenses like rent, inventory, and marketing efforts, which are key for building brand awareness and attracting initial customers. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during this phase, ensuring you maintain financial flexibility. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to the services or goods you offer, ensuring they meet customer demand. Price involves setting competitive fees and royalties that benefit both you and the franchisor. Place focuses on selecting ideal locations based on market research, enhancing accessibility. Finally, Promotion entails the marketing strategies that attract and retain customers, including advertising and brand messaging, crucial for franchise success. What Factors Contribute to the High Cost of Maintaining a Franchise? Several factors contribute to the high cost of maintaining a franchise. You’ll face ongoing royalty fees, typically between 4% to 12% of gross sales, along with marketing fees of 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, operational costs, like technology and software, can reach 4% to 8%. Equipment and inventory expenses can vary widely, often requiring significant upfront investment. Don’t forget to budget for hidden costs, which can strain your finances during slow periods. How Does Franchise Pricing Work? Franchise pricing involves several components, starting with an initial franchise fee that typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000. You’ll additionally encounter ongoing royalties, which are typically 4% to 12% of your gross sales, plus potential marketing fees of 2% to 5%. It’s essential to take into account additional costs, like real estate, equipment, and working capital. Reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) will help you understand all fees and costs before making an investment. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It only costs $10,000 to own a Chick-fil-A franchise since the company covers most startup expenses, including real estate and equipment, which can exceed $1 million. This low initial fee attracts franchisees, but you’ll need substantial cash reserves for ongoing operational costs. Chick-fil-A likewise requires direct involvement in daily operations, ensuring high customer service standards. The brand’s strong recognition and customer loyalty further improve sales potential, making it a compelling opportunity. Conclusion In summary, grasping the key factors of your franchise price list is crucial for making informed financial decisions. By carefully evaluating initial fees, ongoing royalties, and additional costs, along with hidden expenses and working capital needs, you can better prepare for your investment. Don’t overlook technology expenses or professional services required before opening, as these can greatly impact your budget. A thorough analysis of these elements will help you achieve financial viability and success in your franchise expedition. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Key Factors in Your Franchise Price List" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Garmin fitness watches are such powerful tools that you can use one for months or years without discovering some of their best hidden features. Here are 10 hacks that every Garmin user should know, from the setup steps you may have skipped, to lesser-known features you’ll wish you knew about earlier. These hacks apply to watches like the Garmin Forerunner line (like the 570 and 265, to name two of my favorites). Other Garmin models may vary, but most of the features I describe below will still apply. The Vivoactive 6, for example, doesn’t have as many buttons as the Forerunners, but you can still set up shortcuts for the two buttons it has. Set up shortcuts for touchscreen lock and moreSave yourself time digging through menus (or waiting for features to trigger on their own). By going to the settings menu and selecting System and then Shortcuts (previously “Hot Keys”), you can assign features to long presses or combination button presses. For example, on my watch I hold the DOWN button to bring up music controls, and the BACK button to turn the touchscreen on or off. You can also assign shortcuts to bring up the weather or the stopwatch, to save your current location, to turn on a “night shift” mode, and more. Download a better watch faceGarmins come with a few stock watch faces, but you can find more on the ConnectIQ store. I’m partial to the Big Easy watch face, with its simple text and configurable data. (I have mine set to display sunset time and weekly running mileage, among others.) Other popular faces include Segment 34, Quatro, and this Fenix 8 lookalike that you can install on just about any Garmin watch. Customize your favorite activities, glances, and toolboxWhen you start an activity, you’ll see a few “favorite” activities to choose from—running and cycling, for example. If you’re always scrolling past activities you don’t do and digging for the ones you actually want, just take a minute to configure this list. I always delete outdoor cycling (not a thing I do), but I make sure that strength and trail running are near the top, since I do those often. To remove an activity from the favorites list, long press it (or long press the left middle button). You can also reorder the item in the list this way. To add a new activity, scroll to the end of the list and select “add.” You can also customize the “glances” you see when you scroll down (or swipe up) from the watch face. If you don’t want to see your running performance or your calorie burn, you can remove them from the list. If you want the phase of the moon right up front, that’s within your power as well. Long press a glance to remove or reorder, and scroll to the bottom to add new ones. The controls menu works the same way. This is the circular dial of apps you get by long pressing the top left button on a Forerunner. Long press an app, or long press the left middle button, to edit this list. The wallet, calculator, stopwatch, and modes like Battery Saver are nice to have here. Use Garmin Share to sync routes and workouts with friendsIf you’re running with a buddy, you can both load the same workout or route on your watch. Just go to the end of your activity list and select Garmin Share. While you’re on this screen, you can receive shared files or scroll down to select a file that you’d like to send. I have a handy library of workouts and routes on my watch (more on why below) and I find myself sharing them often. If my husband wants to do a interval workout, I can beam him one of my favorites. You don’t need your phone to do this—it’s a watch-to-watch function you can do in a few seconds before starting your run. Set up LiveTrackI do a lot of solo runs, so I like to set up LiveTrack. When LiveTrack is on, my watch shares GPS data with my phone, and my phone sends that data to a private Garmin web page and shares the link with my trusted contacts. This way, my husband can see whether I’m almost done with my run (without bothering me), and if I were to get injured or need to be picked up, he’d be able to see exactly where I am. LiveTrack does require that you run with your phone (I do anyway), and that your phone has service where you’re running. In the Garmin Connect app, you select More, then Safety & Tracking, and then LiveTrack. I like to turn on AutoStart so I don’t have to remember to start LiveTrack every time. Turn notifications on (or off) during activitiesI hate getting phone notifications on my watch, but for some people, notifications are the main reason for having a watch. And whatever preference you have for daily wear, you may feel differently during workouts. Maybe you want notifications during workouts so you don’t have to check your phone constantly, or maybe your workout time is when you don’t want to be disturbed. Fortunately this is easy to configure. Go to settings, and then Notifications & Alerts for all your notification preferences. The in-activity settings aren’t here, though: you have to go to Focus modes, and then choose Activity, and set up the ways you’d like your watch to behave during activities. The Smart notifications setting lets you change whether notifications come through at all and whether they vibrate or make sound. You can change other activity settings here as well, like screen brightness. Create your own workoutsYou can create workouts within the Garmin Connect app, which is a little confusing at first, but very much worth learning. Once you get the hang of it, it only takes a few minutes to program a Norwegian 4x4 to work on your VO2max, or set up whatever new fartlek workout you just dreamed up this morning. To get started, hit More in the Garmin Connect app and go to Training & Planning, Workouts, Create a Workout, then choose the activity (say, Run). From there, I usually start by tapping Add Repeat, which gives me a loop in which I can put my intervals—say, 4 minutes hard and 3 minutes easy, for a 4x4. You can set a pace or heart rate target for each, or even record an audio clip with instructions. I especially like to create Garmin workouts for timed strength training workouts, like EMOM (“every minute on the minute”) structures. I also love it for rest timing in traditional strength training workouts: if I tell my watch I’m resting three minutes between sets of squats, it will beep and start the set when time is up. Set up a training calendarIf you want to follow a training plan from your Garmin device, you’ll probably set up one of the built-in plans. That’s a natural thing to do, but you have more options. You can set up a third-party app like Runna to give you a training plan and sync its workouts to your Garmin calendar. You can also program workouts in yourself. Let’s use the 4x4 I mentioned above as an example. This is an interval run I might want to do once or twice a week. After creating the workout, I can view it and tap the three-dot menu and then Add to Calendar. If I assign it to tomorrow, then when I start a run tomorrow, the watch will ask if I’d like to do the 4x4, since that’s the workout of the day. Even without a formal training plan, I find this feature handy to plan out my upcoming week. Connect LiftTrack for better strength trainingGarmin’s strength training features can be useful, but it’s not a great app for tracking your progress over time or setting up training programs with details like sets, reps, and weight. LiftTrack is a third-party app that provides a lot of the features Garmin is missing. If you want to track strength training on your phone, do yourself a favor and set this up rather than only using the Garmin app. Download routes (even if your device doesn’t have mapping)Some Garmin watches (the more expensive ones) have full-color maps built in, but even the more barebones models still have the ability to follow a route and navigate you back home. This is a more useful feature than you might think, especially if you enjoy running trails or want to plan out specific distances. To start, you’ll need a GPX file. You can make one in Garmin Connect by going to Training & Planning, then Courses, and Create Course. Tap points on a map, and the app will tell you how many miles are in the route you’ve drawn, and how hilly it is. You can also download GPX files from other apps like Strava or RunGo, or have a training partner send you one—either through Garmin Share, or have them send it via another method, like text, to your phone (just open the file in the Garmin Connect app, and sync to your watch from there). This way, you’ll be able to follow the route from your watch. It will tell you how many miles are left, and you can swipe to the elevation profile to see if you have a big hill coming up. Your watch can remind you when you have a turn coming up, and you’ll be able to see if you’ve gotten off course. With or without maps, this set of features is incredibly useful for navigating trails or new-to-you running routes. View the full article

In relation to posting on social media, timing can greatly influence your engagement levels. Research shows that the best overall time to post is at 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a strong window from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM during the week. Different platforms have varying peak times, and grasping these can improve your visibility. To make the most of your strategy, you need to evaluate how to effectively determine your own ideal posting times. Key Takeaways The best overall time to post is 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with peak engagement from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekdays. Facebook posts perform best between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays, especially on Wednesdays. Instagram engagement peaks from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, particularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, optimal posting times are weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being most effective. LinkedIn users engage best around 1:00 PM PST on Mondays, while TikTok thrives on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Overall Best Times to Post on Social Media When you’re looking to maximize engagement on social media, timing plays a crucial role. The overall best time to post on social media is around 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, as engagement peaks during this hour across various platforms. To capture your audience effectively, consider posting between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, which are ideal hours throughout the week. Mondays through Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM are consistently recommended for peak engagement. For Fridays, you’ll find that posting between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM effectively captures attention as users gear up for the weekend. Nevertheless, keep in mind that Sundays are typically the worst day to post, with considerably lower engagement levels. Best Times to Post by Platform Grasping the best times to post on various social media platforms is essential for maximizing your reach and engagement. For Facebook, the best time to post is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on weekdays, with Wednesdays showing the highest engagement. If you’re focusing on Instagram, aim for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, the best time to post is on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays being most effective. If you’re using LinkedIn, post around 1 p.m. PST on Mondays. Finally, for TikTok, target Saturdays at 9 a.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. for ideal engagement during the week. Importance of Timing in Social Media Strategy Timing plays a critical role in the effectiveness of your social media strategy, as posts shared during peak engagement hours are more likely to capture attention and generate interaction. For instance, knowing the best time to post on Facebook can boost visibility, particularly in the mornings and during lunch breaks. Similarly, the best time to post on Instagram varies, with certain hours yielding higher engagement. You should likewise consider the best time to post on Twitter and the best times to post on FB on Saturday, Monday, and Friday. Engaging with cultural moments during these peak posting hours not only maximizes interaction but likewise aligns with your audience’s routines, in the end improving your brand’s connection and visibility across platforms. How to Find Your Own Best Posting Times How can you pinpoint the best times to post on social media for your unique audience? Start by analyzing audience behavior using platform-specific insights. This will reveal when your followers are most active, whether it’s the best time to post on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Next, conduct A/B testing by posting similar content at different times to measure engagement metrics. Utilize social media management tools like Sprout Social or Hootsuite to gather analytics on past posts and refine your posting strategy. Keep an eye on seasonal trends and shifts in demographics, as these can affect ideal posting times. Regularly reassess your strategy to guarantee you adapt to changing audience preferences and maintain effective engagement. Tips for Maximizing Engagement on Social Media To effectively maximize engagement on social media, it’s crucial to understand and employ various strategies customized to each platform. For Facebook, aim to post between 9 a.m. and noon on weekdays, with Wednesdays being the best time to post on Facebook for likes. On Instagram, the best time to post on Instagram on a Wednesday is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Consider the best time to post on Instagram Monday as well. For Twitter, the best time to post on Twitter on Saturday can help increase visibility. Don’t forget LinkedIn and TikTok; post on LinkedIn from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and TikTok around noon. Finally, for YouTube, the best time to post on Instagram 2025 is between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Times to Post on Social Media for Engagement? To maximize engagement on social media, you should consider posting during peak activity times. For Facebook, aim for weekdays between 9 AM and noon, especially Wednesdays. On Instagram, post around 3 PM on Mondays or between 10 AM and 2 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. LinkedIn users are active from 10 AM to noon on Tuesdays through Thursdays. For TikTok, target noon and early evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays to boost interaction. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 Rule on social media suggests you create a balanced content strategy by posting five engaging or entertaining pieces for every five promotional ones. This approach emphasizes providing value to your audience, nurturing interaction, and building community rather than just focusing on sales. What Are the Peak Hours for Social Media Posting? Peak hours for social media posting vary by platform. Typically, for Facebook, post between 9 AM and noon on weekdays, especially Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Instagram, aim for 3 PM to 9 PM on Mondays, with midday on Tuesdays and Thursdays being effective. LinkedIn users engage most around 10 AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. For TikTok, target Sundays at 8 PM, along with Tuesdays at 4 PM and Wednesdays at 5 PM for ideal engagement. What Is the Best Time to Schedule Social Media Posts to Increase Customer Engagement? To increase customer engagement, you should schedule your social media posts during ideal times. Focus on posting between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays for platforms like Facebook, whereas Instagram performs best from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Mondays. Furthermore, consider your audience’s time zones and conduct A/B testing to identify specific times that yield the highest interaction rates. Analyzing past engagement data can greatly improve your posting strategy. Conclusion In summary, grasping the best times to post on social media is crucial for maximizing engagement. Aim for 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a focus on mid-morning throughout the week. Each platform has its own peak activity times, so tailor your strategy accordingly. By analyzing your audience’s behavior, you can identify the most effective posting times for your specific content. Implement these strategies, and you’ll likely see increased visibility and interaction with your posts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Times to Post on Social Media for Maximum Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In relation to posting on social media, timing can greatly influence your engagement levels. Research shows that the best overall time to post is at 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a strong window from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM during the week. Different platforms have varying peak times, and grasping these can improve your visibility. To make the most of your strategy, you need to evaluate how to effectively determine your own ideal posting times. Key Takeaways The best overall time to post is 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with peak engagement from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekdays. Facebook posts perform best between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays, especially on Wednesdays. Instagram engagement peaks from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, particularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, optimal posting times are weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being most effective. LinkedIn users engage best around 1:00 PM PST on Mondays, while TikTok thrives on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Overall Best Times to Post on Social Media When you’re looking to maximize engagement on social media, timing plays a crucial role. The overall best time to post on social media is around 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, as engagement peaks during this hour across various platforms. To capture your audience effectively, consider posting between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, which are ideal hours throughout the week. Mondays through Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM are consistently recommended for peak engagement. For Fridays, you’ll find that posting between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM effectively captures attention as users gear up for the weekend. Nevertheless, keep in mind that Sundays are typically the worst day to post, with considerably lower engagement levels. Best Times to Post by Platform Grasping the best times to post on various social media platforms is essential for maximizing your reach and engagement. For Facebook, the best time to post is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on weekdays, with Wednesdays showing the highest engagement. If you’re focusing on Instagram, aim for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, the best time to post is on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays being most effective. If you’re using LinkedIn, post around 1 p.m. PST on Mondays. Finally, for TikTok, target Saturdays at 9 a.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. for ideal engagement during the week. Importance of Timing in Social Media Strategy Timing plays a critical role in the effectiveness of your social media strategy, as posts shared during peak engagement hours are more likely to capture attention and generate interaction. For instance, knowing the best time to post on Facebook can boost visibility, particularly in the mornings and during lunch breaks. Similarly, the best time to post on Instagram varies, with certain hours yielding higher engagement. You should likewise consider the best time to post on Twitter and the best times to post on FB on Saturday, Monday, and Friday. Engaging with cultural moments during these peak posting hours not only maximizes interaction but likewise aligns with your audience’s routines, in the end improving your brand’s connection and visibility across platforms. How to Find Your Own Best Posting Times How can you pinpoint the best times to post on social media for your unique audience? Start by analyzing audience behavior using platform-specific insights. This will reveal when your followers are most active, whether it’s the best time to post on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Next, conduct A/B testing by posting similar content at different times to measure engagement metrics. Utilize social media management tools like Sprout Social or Hootsuite to gather analytics on past posts and refine your posting strategy. Keep an eye on seasonal trends and shifts in demographics, as these can affect ideal posting times. Regularly reassess your strategy to guarantee you adapt to changing audience preferences and maintain effective engagement. Tips for Maximizing Engagement on Social Media To effectively maximize engagement on social media, it’s crucial to understand and employ various strategies customized to each platform. For Facebook, aim to post between 9 a.m. and noon on weekdays, with Wednesdays being the best time to post on Facebook for likes. On Instagram, the best time to post on Instagram on a Wednesday is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Consider the best time to post on Instagram Monday as well. For Twitter, the best time to post on Twitter on Saturday can help increase visibility. Don’t forget LinkedIn and TikTok; post on LinkedIn from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and TikTok around noon. Finally, for YouTube, the best time to post on Instagram 2025 is between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Times to Post on Social Media for Engagement? To maximize engagement on social media, you should consider posting during peak activity times. For Facebook, aim for weekdays between 9 AM and noon, especially Wednesdays. On Instagram, post around 3 PM on Mondays or between 10 AM and 2 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. LinkedIn users are active from 10 AM to noon on Tuesdays through Thursdays. For TikTok, target noon and early evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays to boost interaction. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 Rule on social media suggests you create a balanced content strategy by posting five engaging or entertaining pieces for every five promotional ones. This approach emphasizes providing value to your audience, nurturing interaction, and building community rather than just focusing on sales. What Are the Peak Hours for Social Media Posting? Peak hours for social media posting vary by platform. Typically, for Facebook, post between 9 AM and noon on weekdays, especially Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Instagram, aim for 3 PM to 9 PM on Mondays, with midday on Tuesdays and Thursdays being effective. LinkedIn users engage most around 10 AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. For TikTok, target Sundays at 8 PM, along with Tuesdays at 4 PM and Wednesdays at 5 PM for ideal engagement. What Is the Best Time to Schedule Social Media Posts to Increase Customer Engagement? To increase customer engagement, you should schedule your social media posts during ideal times. Focus on posting between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays for platforms like Facebook, whereas Instagram performs best from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Mondays. Furthermore, consider your audience’s time zones and conduct A/B testing to identify specific times that yield the highest interaction rates. Analyzing past engagement data can greatly improve your posting strategy. Conclusion In summary, grasping the best times to post on social media is crucial for maximizing engagement. Aim for 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a focus on mid-morning throughout the week. Each platform has its own peak activity times, so tailor your strategy accordingly. By analyzing your audience’s behavior, you can identify the most effective posting times for your specific content. Implement these strategies, and you’ll likely see increased visibility and interaction with your posts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Times to Post on Social Media for Maximum Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Crowds flooded the freshly opened showroom floors on Day 2 of the CES and were met by thousands of robots, AI companions, assistants, health longevity tech, wearables and more. Siemens President and CEO Roland Busch kicked off the day with a keynote detailing how its customers are harnessing artificial intelligence to transform their businesses. He was joined onstage by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang to announce an expanded partnership, saying they are launching a new AI-driven industrial revolution to reinvent all aspects of manufacturing, production and supply chain management. Lenovo ended the day with a guest star-rich visual banquet dedicated to spotlighting how its AI platforms can help people personally (wearables), with their businesses (enterprise platforms) and the world around them. To strike home his points, its CEO Yang Yuanqing was joined by tech superstars like Nvidia’s Huang, AMD CEO Lisa Su and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan. The CES is a huge opportunity annually for companies large and small to parade products they plan to put on shelves this year. Here are the highlights from Day 2: Razer leans into AI Gaming tech company Razer is well known for bringing buzz-worthy hardware to CES, like haptic, or tactile, seat cushions and tri-screen laptops. This year, it’s reaching beyond its standard gaming base and demonstrating two AI-powered prototypes — an over-ear gaming headset that doubles as a general-purpose assistant, and an AI desk companion that can provide gaming advice and also organize a user’s life. The holographic companion, based on a Razor on-screen AI assistant launched last year (Project Ava), has transitioned off-screen into a small glass tube that sits near your computer. The animated sprite has built-in speakers and a camera so it can see the world around it. Both devices are AI agnostic, so you can use your preferred model. For the demo, the headset — Project Motoko — ran on OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Project Ava worked off xAI’s Grok. Although still in development, Razer said it expects both to be released commercially later this year. Robots on the tarmac Imagine your plane lands and, when you look out the window you see autonomous robots guiding it to the gate and then unloading the luggage. Oshkosh Corporation is pitching that future for airports big and small. At CES, it debuted a fleet of autonomous airport robots designed to help airlines pull off what it calls “the perfect turn” — a tightly timed process that happens after a plane lands, including fueling, cleaning, handling cargo and getting passengers off and back on. For travelers, CEO John Pfeifer says the goal is fewer delays without compromising safety. The technology is also designed to keep those tarmac tasks moving even during severe weather, like winter storms or extreme heat, when conditions are daunting for human crews, Pfeifer said. Testing with major airlines is already underway, and the robots would likely debut at large hub airports like Atlanta or Dallas, with a goal of rolling them out over the next few years. The vacuum that can climb stairs Chinese robovac maker Roborock has introduced a vacuum that literally sprouts chicken-like legs to navigate stairs and clean steps along the way. The newly introduced Saros Rover was a tad slow in its ascent and descent (but it was cleaning each step) during the demo, but Roborock says it will be able to traverse almost any style of stairwell, including spiraled. No release date was given for the Rover, which the company says is still in development. The Body Scan scale gets an upgrade While it may look like a typical scale you’d buy for your bathroom, Withings’ new Body Scan 2 measures much more than weight. Taking off their shoes and socks, people lined up to try out the “smart scale” that in 90 seconds measures 60 different biomarkers, including their heart age, vascular age and their metabolism using the pads of their feet and hands. The $600 scale, which will be available for purchase in the spring, also provides a nerve health score and measures changes in someone’s electrodermal activity, or the skin’s electrical properties due to sweat gland activity. The smart scale and a corresponding app, which costs $10 a month or $100 a year, provide personalized advice and a health trajectory for its users. The French company’s goals are to help people monitor their health and reverse bad habits to promote longevity. Fusion energy research gets a little support from Nvidia, Siemens Commonwealth Fusion Systems, NVIDIA and Siemens announced Tuesday that they are working together to use AI to hasten making nuclear fusion a new source of carbon-free energy. In Massachusetts, Commonwealth Fusion Systems is building a prototype fusion power plant called SPARC, which is about 70% complete. Through the new partnership, it will create a “digital twin,” or online simulation, of the physical machine. CFS CEO Bob Mumgaard said it will ask questions of the simulation to speed up progress on the physical machine and rapidly analyze data, compressing years of manual experimentation into weeks of understanding. SPARC is a prototype for the company’s first planned power plant, called ARC, that is meant to connect to the grid in the early 2030s. The device will use very strong magnets to create conditions for fusion to happen. Mumgaard also said CFS’s first high-temperature superconducting magnet has been installed in SPARC. —Shawn Chen and Rio Yamat, Associated Press View the full article

A recent federal court case has cast a glaring spotlight on the vulnerabilities within government relief programs aimed at helping small businesses. Ikponmwosa Erhinmwinrose, a 39-year-old from Atlanta, Georgia, has been convicted of multiple charges including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigating authorities report that Erhinmwinrose and his co-conspirators managed to siphon off more than $7.6 million from vital economic relief programs initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. For small business owners, these developments serve as a potent reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in navigating government assistance programs. The evidence against Erhinmwinrose was extensive; he impersonated over 1,000 victims to fraudulently obtain government benefits. Misusing stolen identities, he perpetrated schemes that not only robbed government resources but also left many individuals grappling with the fallout. Victims reported receiving unexpected notices about loan repayments they never made and being ridiculed on social media due to false associations with large fraudulent loans. The scale of this fraud emphasizes potential risks that small business owners must be aware of while trying to access financial aid. The programs designed to support businesses during economic crisis times can unfortunately attract unscrupulous actors. As stressors from the pandemic linger, understanding the mechanics of fraud can help small business owners navigate these essential resources more effectively. “Fraud in pandemic relief programs has real consequences—not just for businesses that need support but for individuals whose identities have been stolen,” stated a spokesperson from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. This case serves not only as a cautionary tale but also prompts essential questions about the systems in place to safeguard against such fraudulent activities. It encourages small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their information. According to experts, heightened vigilance is key: business owners are urged to keep their financial records up to date and secure. Training staff on data security, confirming the legitimacy of any unsolicited email solicitations, and utilizing credible sources for applying to relief programs are actionable steps every small business should take. Yet, navigating these complex programs while safeguarding oneself from fraud can present its own challenges. As more business owners turn to financial assistance from the government, maintaining diligence becomes even more crucial. The investigation into Erhinmwinrose involved multiple agencies, including the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness of fighting fraud, especially in a climate where businesses are still reeling from economic stress. While this conviction highlights law enforcement’s commitment to addressing fraudulent activities, it also serves as a wake-up call for business owners: awareness and education can reduce individual vulnerabilities. For those who suspect fraudulent activity relating to these relief programs, the Department of Justice encourages reporting through their National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline. This allows businesses and individuals to play a role in preventing economic exploitation. As small business owners navigate these critical financial resources in uncertain times, lessons from such cases reinforce the need for vigilance. Staying informed about fraud and developing robust strategies for safeguarding sensitive information can offer peace of mind and protection in an increasingly complex economic landscape. For anyone interested in delving deeper into the details of the case, further information can be found in the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here. By about ensuring transparency and accountability in financial dealings, small business owners can better shield themselves against fraud while accessing the necessary support to thrive. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Atlanta Man Convicted in $7.6M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A recent federal court case has cast a glaring spotlight on the vulnerabilities within government relief programs aimed at helping small businesses. Ikponmwosa Erhinmwinrose, a 39-year-old from Atlanta, Georgia, has been convicted of multiple charges including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigating authorities report that Erhinmwinrose and his co-conspirators managed to siphon off more than $7.6 million from vital economic relief programs initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. For small business owners, these developments serve as a potent reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in navigating government assistance programs. The evidence against Erhinmwinrose was extensive; he impersonated over 1,000 victims to fraudulently obtain government benefits. Misusing stolen identities, he perpetrated schemes that not only robbed government resources but also left many individuals grappling with the fallout. Victims reported receiving unexpected notices about loan repayments they never made and being ridiculed on social media due to false associations with large fraudulent loans. The scale of this fraud emphasizes potential risks that small business owners must be aware of while trying to access financial aid. The programs designed to support businesses during economic crisis times can unfortunately attract unscrupulous actors. As stressors from the pandemic linger, understanding the mechanics of fraud can help small business owners navigate these essential resources more effectively. “Fraud in pandemic relief programs has real consequences—not just for businesses that need support but for individuals whose identities have been stolen,” stated a spokesperson from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. This case serves not only as a cautionary tale but also prompts essential questions about the systems in place to safeguard against such fraudulent activities. It encourages small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their information. According to experts, heightened vigilance is key: business owners are urged to keep their financial records up to date and secure. Training staff on data security, confirming the legitimacy of any unsolicited email solicitations, and utilizing credible sources for applying to relief programs are actionable steps every small business should take. Yet, navigating these complex programs while safeguarding oneself from fraud can present its own challenges. As more business owners turn to financial assistance from the government, maintaining diligence becomes even more crucial. The investigation into Erhinmwinrose involved multiple agencies, including the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness of fighting fraud, especially in a climate where businesses are still reeling from economic stress. While this conviction highlights law enforcement’s commitment to addressing fraudulent activities, it also serves as a wake-up call for business owners: awareness and education can reduce individual vulnerabilities. For those who suspect fraudulent activity relating to these relief programs, the Department of Justice encourages reporting through their National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline. This allows businesses and individuals to play a role in preventing economic exploitation. As small business owners navigate these critical financial resources in uncertain times, lessons from such cases reinforce the need for vigilance. Staying informed about fraud and developing robust strategies for safeguarding sensitive information can offer peace of mind and protection in an increasingly complex economic landscape. For anyone interested in delving deeper into the details of the case, further information can be found in the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here. By about ensuring transparency and accountability in financial dealings, small business owners can better shield themselves against fraud while accessing the necessary support to thrive. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Atlanta Man Convicted in $7.6M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Integrated planning, not heroics, creates life-changing outcomes for clients. Big 4 Transparency By Dominic Piscopo, CPA For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Dominic Piscopo. View the full article

Integrated planning, not heroics, creates life-changing outcomes for clients. Big 4 Transparency By Dominic Piscopo, CPA For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Dominic Piscopo. View the full article

The deal comes as technology experts see likely 2026 artificial intelligence breakthroughs in mortgage to come through improved underwriting. View the full article

Budgeting in paid search isn’t just about setting a daily number. It requires understanding how platforms pace spend, the exceptions to those rules, and what changes when budgets are adjusted mid-month. Most PPC advertisers change budgets during the month and want to know how it will affect performance. Enterprise advertisers add complexity, with fiscal cycles and promotional flights that rarely align with calendar months. The problem is that many advertisers assume platforms will simply spread spend evenly. When that doesn’t happen, campaigns overspend one week and underspend the next. Both outcomes are costly. Overspending erodes profitability. Underspending leaves conversions on the table and can even reduce future budget allocations. Budgeting isn’t just math or planning. It’s the foundation of paid search performance. Without a clear understanding of how spend is paced – and how that pacing aligns with client plans – teams risk wasted budget, missed opportunity, and lost credibility. How budgets work in Google Ads At the campaign level, you set a daily budget. If everything is equal, that budget gets spread out over the month. The monthly rule: A $100 daily budget translates to $100 x 30.4 days, or $3,004 for the month. The promise: Google Ads guarantees you won’t be charged more than that monthly cap. The busy day rule (overdelivery): On high‑traffic days, the system can spend up to double your daily budget. If you set $100, you might spend $200 on Wednesday when demand spikes, and only $25 on a quiet Sunday. If you hit your daily limit, your ads stop showing. In your account, this appears as “Limited by budget,” and it is a signal that demand exceeded your available spend. Dig deeper: PPC budget planning: Aligning business goals, ad spend, and performance What happens when you change your budget mid‑month Here’s where things get tricky. If you change your budget on, say, the 8th of the month, Google recalculates everything from that day forward. Step change in monthly limit: The system combines your old budget for days 1-7 with your new budget for days 8-30. Your monthly cap shifts accordingly. Daily limit adjusts immediately: Your maximum daily spend (twice your daily budget) recalculates the moment you make the change. Pacing re‑optimized: Google adjusts how it spreads spend across the remaining days, updating your forecast in the budget report. Visual indicators: In reports, you’ll see a gray triangle marking the change date and a “step” in the monthly spend line. If you’re using a campaign total budget instead of an average daily budget, the rules differ. Average daily budget: Flexible, editable anytime, capped monthly spend, best for always‑on campaigns. Campaign total budget: Fixed, less flexible, no daily cap, best for promos or video flights. Campaign total budgets are fixed sums for a set duration, with no daily caps. The system simply tries to spend the total evenly by the end date. These are common in video or Demand Gen campaigns. Campaign total budgets are less flexible once a campaign is live, which can complicate pacing and optimization. As a result, edits mid-flight are discouraged. Think of daily budgets like a monthly allowance: you aim to spend consistently, and it balances out over time. Campaign totals are more like a project fee, where the system’s only goal is to spend the full amount by the deadline. The real challenge for paid search managers PPC budgets don’t exist in a vacuum. Targeting restrictions, aggressive CPA or ROAS goals, or narrow geographies can all cause underspending. Underspending is just as damaging as overspending because brands often can’t reclaim unused budget, which means missed opportunities and smaller allocations next cycle. Layer on seasonality and promotions like ramping up ad spend before Black Friday and the budgeting complexity multiplies. This is because Google recalculates budgets based on calendar months, and promotional flights rarely align neatly. That’s why senior PPC managers rely on spreadsheets, constant monitoring, and hands‑on adjustments to balance spend, targeting, and performance. The good news is that Google Ads tools make managing shifting budgets easier. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. How to project spend and impact before adjusting budgets Sometimes advertisers ask the paid ads team to cut spending mid‑month, for example, trimming $2,000 from the non-brand search campaign budget. This is where tools and logic checks become essential, so you can quickly project the input. 1. The budget report (spend projection) The budget report is your primary tool for visualizing how a mid‑month cut will affect your final bill. Because changing a budget creates a “step change” rather than a full reset, this report shows you exactly how the math shifts. Where to find it Go to the Campaigns page in your Google Ads account (left‑hand menu). Find the campaign you want to check. In the Budget column, hover over the amount or click the pencil icon. Select View budget report. What it shows Forecasted spend (dotted blue line): Projects your total spend by month‑end. Step change (gray triangle): Marks the day you made the cut, with the gray line stepping down to reflect the new monthly limit. Historical changes: Past adjustments are also visible, helping you understand spending patterns over time. How to use it After entering your new daily budget, check that the dotted blue forecast line ends at a number roughly $2,000 lower than your previous projection. This confirms the cut will achieve the savings you need. Note that while budget changes take effect immediately, pacing isn’t perfectly smooth. On the day you change it, Google may still spend up to twice your daily budget as it adapts. Performance often increases with higher budgets, so consider making gradual adjustments (10-20% every few days) rather than large cuts all at once. Dig deeper: How to manage a paid media budget: Allocation, risk and scaling 2. Performance planner (results projection) The budget report shows cost. The performance planner shows impact, modeling how budget cuts reduce clicks, conversions, ROAS, and other KPIs. How to use it Input the reduced budget scenario to see how many leads or sales you’ll sacrifice. This lets you report back not just “we saved $2,000,” but “we saved $2,000 and lost 50 conversions.” 3. Manual calculation (logic check) Sometimes you need to sanity‑check the math yourself. Check your Cost column for month‑to‑date spend. Subtract that from your new desired monthly total. Divide the remainder by the number of days left in the month and the flight. Google’s 30.4‑day average doesn’t apply mid‑flight. The system treats the rest of the month as a new period with a new daily cap. Manual math ensures you’re aligned with the month and your promotion period if you have one. Where paid search performance and financial planning intersect A useful way to think about these tools is to compare them to driving. Manual calculation is choosing to slow down to save gas. The budget report is your GPS, showing whether that pace still gets you home with fuel to spare. The performance planner is the reminder that driving slower also changes your arrival time. That’s why budgeting in paid search isn’t just math. It’s ad management and financial planning under constant change, where every adjustment affects pacing, reporting, and client expectations. Your role isn’t just to change budgets, but to explain the tradeoffs those changes create. Budgeting isn’t set and forget. It’s a continuous process of alignment between spend, performance, and business goals. Mastering that discipline is what separates paid search managers who keep campaigns running from those who earn long-term trust. Dig deeper: How to plan and manage paid media budgets in an AI-driven world View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Tools can be a serious investment—so if you're looking to up your DIY game in 2026, a tool bundle is often a good solution. Because they come with batteries and chargers, they’re a great way to get everything you need to use a new tool set right away, and they can be more economical than buying each tool individually. Milwaukee tool sets are often more than $1,000, but you can get a few of these bundles for under $700 right now at Home Depot. Why I recommend Milwaukee toolsI’ve been using Milwaukee cordless tools for over a decade on a variety of professional and personal projects, including projects around the house as well as large scale decking installations. These tools tend to be reliable and the batteries routinely last more than ten years, even working on outdoor projects, exposed to rain and dirt. Durability is a big consideration when I buy tools; the longer they last, the more economical they are. Because all of the current tools are backwards-compatible with all of the 18-volt batteries I have, it's easy to add tools to my set as new ones come out that I want to try, and as my needs expand. Milwaukee tool bundles on saleThe Milwaukee 18-volt, nine-tool combo kit is on sale for $649, 46% off its regular price. It comes with a drill, a ¼-inch impact driver, a ½-inch impact wrench, a 6 ½-inch circular saw, a one-hand reciprocating saw, an angle grinder, an oscillating multitool, a mini blower, a work light, two 5-amp-hour batteries, a charger, and tool bag. This is a good set for larger projects, and it has many of the tools included that I used for building a large outdoor deck. Two larger capacity batteries is a good place to start, although if you plan on using multiple saw simultaneously, you’ll need to add another battery or two to keep a fresh battery ready on the charger. Milwaukee 18-volt, nine-tool combo kit $649.00 at Home Depot $1,199.00 Save $550.00 Get Deal Get Deal $649.00 at Home Depot $1,199.00 Save $550.00 The Milwaukee 18-volt five-tool combo kit is on sale for $299, 50% off its regular price. This set includes a drill, a ¼-inch impact driver, a 6 ½-inch circular saw, a one-hand reciprocating saw, a work light, a five-amp-hour battery, a 1.5-amp-hour battery, a charger, and a tool bag. This set has everything you need to get started doing DIY projects, and it includes all the basic Milwaukee tools I use day-to-day for woodworking and smaller building projects like building shelves. This is a good starter set to build on, and it's very similar to the one I began with more than a decade ago. The Milwaukee 12-volt sub-compact drill and driver set is on sale for $199, 50% off its regular price. This set includes a 12-volt drill, an impact driver, a powered ratchet, two batteries, a charger, and a tool bag. While 12-volt batteries are often underpowered for larger projects, these smaller tools can be quite useful for projects like furniture assembly, putting up shelves, or doing appliance repair, as you often don’t need more than an hour or so of battery life to accomplish many of these tasks with your tools, and the smaller size makes them easier to fit into tight spaces. Milwaukee 12-volt sub-compact drill and driver set $199.00 at Home Depot $399.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $199.00 at Home Depot $399.00 Save $200.00 View the full article

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

Fashion collaborations are nothing new, but 2025 felt like a year particularly stuffed with branding matchups. There’s a reason why this might be happening. “Online platforms have become crowded, [there are] rapidly accelerating trend cycles, [and] it’s become more challenging than ever for brands to stand out,” Cassandra Napoli, a head culture forecaster at WGSN, says. Collaborations continue to be a unique and important tool for marketing and maintaining cultural relevance. The best lead to attention-grabbing virality, as was the case with Nike x Skims’ first drop, Sandy Liang x Gap, and Willy Chavarria x Adidas. “Collaborations have become so important because brands have a need to attract new cohorts of communities and consumers . . . as well as provide a new expression of brand DNA and satisfy many customers’ need for newness,” Gemma D’Auria, global leader of apparel, fashion, and luxury at McKinsey, tells Fast Company. But the truth is fashion has become inundated with collabs, and the net result of so much noise has ultimately had the opposite effect: We’re numb to them. A collaboration alone is no longer enough to excite. To sell, they’ll have to resonate with a brand’s core audience, while also tapping into culture and surprising consumers with something new. What brands could break the internet together? Insiders reveal their blue-sky collaboration ideas for 2026. 1. A Gap collab with a luxury design partner Gap has been on a roll. The American fashion brand not only wooed shoppers this year with the aforementioned Sandy Liang drop, but its denim campaign with Katseye went viral for good reason: an incredible campaign spot that called back to its Y2K days with rising talent and fresh choreo (unlike the controversy-laden American Eagle “good jeans” mess that dropped weeks before). Multihyphenate host and former Essence editor Blake Newby wants to see Gap bring more designer partners on board. “I feel like there’s a synergy in the brand ethos of a Loewe girl and a Gap girl,” Newby says, adding that Loewe has already proven it’s comfortable with collabs thanks to its drops with On Running, for instance. (Plus, Loewe has its own denim with real brand ID.) “Gap has also just been doing such cool creative things. We would of course expect this to be at a higher price point [than normal Gap], but it would be so fabulous to see Gap merge their love for denim and basics with the way Loewe does [a similar thing].” 2. A Chanel partnership that scales smaller masters of the métier People are expecting a lot from Chanel right now. The French luxury house is freshly under the creative leadership of Matthieu Blazy, who made his runway collection debut in October. He’s being celebrated for breathing new life into the brand, and fashion people are curious to see a Chanel collaboration. Technically, the brand edged into collab territory in October: Blazy revealed a white button-up on the runway in partnership with 187-year old Parisian shirtmaker Charvet. But for Blazy, it wasn’t a collaboration as much as it was highlighting a house of craftsmanship, as the brand already does in its Métier d’Art collection. “It’ll be interesting to see what other things [Chanel Creative Director] Matthieu Blazy taps into because he’s really attuned to craftsmanship,” Jalil Johnson, author of the Consider Yourself Cultured Substack says. “It would be more interesting for these storied houses to give resources to smaller entities to see what they can produce on a bigger scale, like if Chanel worked with Gee’s Bend quiltmakers,” referring to the intergenerational group of women in a rural Alabama town crafting brightly hued and intricate patterned textiles. 3. A pairing that dares to expand Hermès sportswear Adjacent to Chanel, strategist and collaboration expert Bimma Williams wants to see a storied house work with an unexpected brand. For Williams, the dream would be to see Hermès and its recently appointed Men’s Creative Director Grace Wales Bonner do a collaboration with Adidas. (Believe it or not, Hermès already offers an HermèsFit line, and Wales Bonner and Adidas have already done drops.) Adding Hermès to that mix, he thinks, would be a ”masterclass in craft and restraint, merging heritage, sport, and contemporary cultural intelligence.” Perhaps what people are craving is for an uber high fashion house to finally cave and break its mold to collaborate with another brand that seems out of the high-end purview. A spin on the Birkin would inject some much-needed energy into the highly coveted bag for Amy Odell, a New York Times bestselling author and writer of Back Row on Substack. “I think the Birkin is getting stale, and they’ve got to mix it up,” Odell, who wrote biographies on Anna Wintour and Gwyneth Paltrow, tells Fast Company. “Hermès won’t sell the Birkin to Nike . . . but what if you had a Birkin you could take to the gym? I feel like everyone would talk about that. Or, they could collaborate with Tiffany & Co.—opulence is coming back—and do a fully glittery, diamond bag.” The economy is recovering in a biforcated K-shape, meaning that while inflation and a tight job market has led to less spending among lower-income consumers, America’s wealthiest shoppers are still buying, so there could still be a market for what would surely be an exorbitantly priced luxury good. 4. A collaboration that revives ’70s era Elsa Peretti x Halston The Italian jewelry designer and fashion model Elsa Peretti has had a legendary collaboration with Tiffany & Co. since 1974. Peretti, who passed away in 2021, is behind the American jeweler’s popular bone cuffs and other sculptural pieces. But what some may not know is that Peretti also worked with Halston to design not only a fragrance bottle, but jewelry and accessories, too. A re-edition of this duo’s work would be a dream come true for The Millenial Decorator’s Julia Rabinowitsch, who recently collaborated on a shoe collection with Reformation. “I’d love to see a revival of the pieces Peretti did, especially as I collect vintage Elsa for Halston pieces, and they are becoming increasingly rare,” she adds. 5. A duo that offers a new take on classic Missoni patterns Across the board, experts want one thing in a collaboration: for it to be unexpected. For stylist and founder of experiential shopping platform Sweet Like Jam, Mecca James-Williams, “designer-led collaborations with bigger luxury houses” would catch her eye. Imagine Christopher John Rogers, known for his unique technicolor touch and bold silhouettes, with Missoni, she says. James-Williams isn’t the only one interested in merging Missoni’s signature zigzags and geometric patterns. British TV exec June Sarpong would be interested in the brand working with British artist Yinka Ilori, known for his savvy use of bright colors, evident in his collabs with The North Face and Bloomingdale’s. Across both fashion insiders, there’s a real interest in seeing how the brand would keep the foundations of its signature while playing with a more flexible element, namely color. Whatever brands decide to do in 2026, it’s important that their collaborations form with intention and a real understanding that to land well, they have to make us wish we thought of the pairing first. View the full article

If you’re job searching right now, it can feel like your efforts and outcomes aren’t lining up. The job search is changing, and competition isn’t easing. The result: nearly 80% of job seekers say they feel unprepared to find a new job this year. At the same time, two-thirds of recruiters say it’s become harder to find qualified talent over the last year. This tension has become a defining feature of the job hunt. There’s no denying that AI is reshaping how work gets done, and in the new year, both recruiters and job seekers are planning to use the technology to gain a competitive edge. The good news is that the fundamentals of what makes for a good hire haven’t changed drastically. But as AI tools continue to evolve, the way job seekers show up and hirers evaluate talent is shifting. As LinkedIn’s Career Expert, I have front-row access to how the job market is changing, based on our unique data and member insights, and have spent over a decade helping professionals navigate their careers with confidence as work continues to evolve. Here’s what job seekers need to know about how to stand out and make AI work for them, not against them, in 2026. Do focus on your skills, don’t try to game the system When job seekers update their résumé or LinkedIn Profile, many fall into the same trap: trying to say everything at once. In the age of AI, that can look like keyword stuffing in hopes an LLM picks it up. But this often backfires, making applications feel inauthentic or mismatched to the role. Instead, what works best is to lead with the actual skills you have—and specific explanations as to what you actually did, how you did it, and what came of it. Saying you “led a cross-functional launch that improved customer retention by 2x,” for example, gives far more insight than a dense list of generic responsibilities. This level of detail will help you stand out to recruiters, many of whom are already tapping AI to find candidates with skills they’d never have found before. So, take the time to revisit how you present your qualifications. You may even rediscover skills you’ve been applying for years without realizing they’re in-demand now, like problem-solving and adaptability, so you can stand out more and have an easier time spotting roles that are actually a good fit for you. Don’t be intimidated by the AI interview, do practice ahead of time For many job seekers, the first interaction with a potential employer now happens through an AI-led prescreen or interview. That alone can be enough to throw people off. The format feels unfamiliar, but my biggest advice to job seekers is to treat it like a normal interview. Today, AI-led prescreenings help hiring teams manage application overload so they can spend their time evaluating and interviewing candidates who are truly a good fit. In fact, two-thirds of recruiters say AI prescreening interviews can help them get better insights about candidates, even across a large applicant pool. For job seekers, I recommend practicing an AI interview beforehand so you’re not caught off guard the first time you encounter one. Use AI tools to practice a run-through, testing out your responses to common interview questions, how you’d introduce yourself, and how you’d describe your strengths and yes, your weaknesses (aka opportunities for growth!). If you’re able to clearly communicate your experience and what you’ll bring to the role, you’ll move more smoothly through the hiring process, from pre-screening to live interviews. Do invest in relationships, don’t wait until you need them Even as AI becomes more ingrained in the job search process, it’s still humans who make the biggest impact in your job search and career more broadly. But a mistake people make is waiting until they’ve started looking for a new job to tap into their network. Even well-intentioned messages can come across as transactional if you’re only reaching out when you need something. Strong connections often start with shared context, not a specific ask, so reaching out early and often to your network is the best approach. This can be as simple as sending a quick check-in to a former coworker, a past manager, or a recruiter you meant to follow up with. A simple “saw your promotion, congrats” or “this made me think of you” goes further than you think. If you’re not sure what to say, there are a ton of tools you can tap to help you find some common ground or the right words. The biggest takeaway: when relationships are warm, people are more likely to vouch for you or share opportunities you might not otherwise see. This can make all the difference, especially in a tough job market where many hiring managers give extra consideration to applicants who have a referral. Bottom Line: Use AI to get clearer, not slicker Hiring may look different than it did a few years ago, but the basics haven’t changed as much as it may feel. Skills, curiosity, and judgment still matter. What has changed is how job seekers can use AI to take charge of their job search. On LinkedIn, you can now describe what type of role you want, using plain language, and jobs you might not have thought to search for will come up. You can take a similar approach when looking for a new connection too, making it easier to build your network. When used strategically, AI can help you job search more intentionally so you can spend your energy where it matters most, and put your best foot forward in 2026. View the full article

LinkedIn’s AI-powered job search feature is expanding to new audiences. The tool—which lets job seekers find relevant open positions without needing to exactly match keywords in the job title or description—will soon be available to all LinkedIn members using the site in English and expanding to Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese. AI-powered job search is already used by 1.3 million people daily, with more than 25 million job searches conducted via the tool every week. And initial data indicates that job seekers without a four-year college degree who use the tool are 10% more likely to get hired than before, according to the company. “This is a really meaningful shift, because our vision is economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce,” says Rohan Rajiv, senior director of product management and product lead for job search at LinkedIn. “We know that in the past, if you were a line cook or a taco chef, it wasn’t that easy to find those jobs on LinkedIn.” The AI search tool even lets users specify general properties of a job, like saying “I want to protect the world’s oceans,” and find relevant listings, he says. That’s a result of careful, iterative development of a large language model-powered system that can parse job titles, descriptions and other data, understanding the nuances of how listings may vary by location and industry. One job listing may refer to “partnerships,” while another listing for a similar position refers to “business development” work, for example. And the AI is able to deliver both listings to potential applicants without them needing to search for a specific keyword. “Compared to traditional keyword searches, it felt more intuitive and less mechanical,” writes Anderson Cheng, who recently found a job at the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency via the tool, in an email to Fast Company. “The biggest surprise was how well it surfaced roles I might have skipped over based on title alone, but that were actually a strong fit once I reviewed the description more closely.” The AI is carefully designed to be speedy, so users don’t have to wait long for results, as well as accurate and internally cost effective, Rajiv says. The results are created in part by LinkedIn staff evaluating them using a second LLM-powered system, then providing the core AI with additional examples in areas where it underperforms. Using AI to evaluate results lets the company check a broader sample than they could practically look at by hand. “The magic of building these products is that you’re able to evaluate these products at scale,” says Rajiv. The expanded AI access comes as the Microsoft-owned platform continues to evolve beyond a mere virtual rolodex and resume board, perhaps especially in the post-pandemic era. Revenue has more than doubled from $7 billion in 2020 to $17 billion in 2025, according to LinkedIn. It has long been used by recruiters to find potential candidates and vet applicants, making maintaining a profile there critical in many industries. “If you say something in your résumé, they might look at your LinkedIn and see if those things line up,” says Daniel Usera, a clinical associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington who has studied LinkedIn. Job searches are also a big part of what LinkedIn offers. The company reports that every minute, nearly 50 new hires are made through LinkedIn and more than 11,000 job applications are submitted through the platform. It’s also a social network, where 17,000 new connections are formed every minute. Another recently released AI feature, known as AI-powered people search, helps users find potential connections based on plain language criteria, like “investors with FDA experience for a biotech startup” or “Northwestern alumni who work in entertainment marketing,” rather than simply looking people up by name and employer. The platform has also given people new ways to express themselves in recent years, including adding short-form video similar to TikTok. LinkedIn posts are sometimes mocked and parodied for their excessive business boosterism, and cringey work lessons drawn from personal trauma. But the site has become a legitimately unique place for people to share work updates, from promotions to hiring announcements, along with insights about their fields. “We kind of have this sense of professionalism in terms of how you’re supposed to post, how you’re supposed to interact,” says Usera. “And the topics are generally professional in nature.” More than 1.9 million feed updates are viewed every minute as of October 2025, according to the company, which reports that comments on the network are up 24% year-over-year. Usera says his research indicates that tagging other people in LinkedIn posts, perhaps in celebrating their achievements and contributions to your own work, can help boost engagement. And while he hasn’t yet formally studied the LinkedIn “cringe” phenomenon, he says awkward posts can result from attempts at modesty, where people allude to personal achievements in roundabout ways, and those forced analogies between the personal and professional. “Maybe the lesson is you don’t need to always be creative,” he says. “You can just be factual and just trust that your network supports you and will be happy for you.” And as the platform’s AI job search functionality expands, the same lesson likely applies to job postings. While job description language have historically sometimes been an afterthought, providing clear detail about what a position entails helps ensure it shows up in AI-powered searches, says Rajiv. “We are moving away from a world focused on keywords to a world where you need to say things as they are,” he says. View the full article

There are many good reasons to get a VPN (Virtual Private Network) app installed on your phone or laptop: They make it harder for anyone else to track your browsing, they keep your data safe when you're on public wifi networks, and they even let you spoof your location so you can access geolocation-locked content. You'll also find plenty of choice when it comes to VPNs. Our own guides to the best paid VPNs and the best free VPNs show the wealth of impressive apps out there, and even when you narrow down the criteria, you've still got lots of options to pick from—see our recommendations for the best free VPNs for Android. So what exactly should you be looking for when it comes to choosing the right VPN for you? These are the features and selling points that you'll see mentioned when you're browsing VPN comparisons, and what they mean (and once you've built up a shortlist from these criteria, then you can look at the prices and extras). Browsing speedOne of the downsides of loading up a VPN is that your browsing speed can suffer, while your data gets pinged around multiple servers across the globe. Ideally, you want all the protection that a VPN offers, without too much of a hit on download and upload rates (no matter how many other people are using the same VPN). Unfortunately, this isn't really something you can gauge just by looking at VPN listings and ads, as most VPNs will claim to be the fastest. Either read benchmark tests put together by publications and authors you trust (watch out for sponsored content), or make use of as many free trials as you can and do some testing yourself. Server locations Even VPN service will tell you how many servers it has, and where they are. Credit: ExpressVPN Your VPN of choice needs to reroute your internet traffic somewhere, and how many servers a particular VPN has around the world can make a substantial difference to speed and availability. It's also going to determine where in the world you can pretend to be of course, if you want to jump to another country virtually. Broadly speaking, the more servers the better, though as with VPN speeds you may have to do some testing of your own to check reliability and transfer rates. Look for server locations close to you (for speed), and outside of heavily censored or surveilled countries (for privacy), and check any technical specs that are given for them. Split tunneling and kill switchesSomething else to look out for is split tunneling, or the ability to send only some of your internet traffic through a VPN. This means you get better speeds (and less security and privacy) on data that's not so important, if you're just reading the news or learning a language. It's a feature that many of the best VPNs now offer. Another feature worth checking for is a kill switch. It sounds rather dramatic, but it's simply a feature that shuts down your internet connection if the data encryption somehow fails—cutting you off from the internet, but preventing your connection and data from being exposed. Again, this is now fairly common, but not every VPN offers it. No logs or zero logs Mullvad VPN lets you pay by cash, if you don't want to enter payment info. Credit: Mullvad VPN You should only consider VPNs that have clear no-logs policies (no browsing data is permanently retained) or zero-logs policies (supposedly even stricter, covering more data). Don't take the VPN's word for it. though: Look for third-party audits from independent security companies, carried out regularly, to verify these claims. If these logs are retained, they might be sold to data brokers, or pulled by law enforcement agencies—so check the individual privacy policies for details of what happens when you're connected to your VPN. Some VPNs go above and beyond when it comes to letting you stay anonymous: Mullvad VPN lets you pay by cash through the post, for example. VPN protocolA VPN protocol is the way that the VPN connects to the internet at large: It makes a major difference to speed and security, and you'll often see it mentioned in VPN listings. However, as important as it is, it's not something that's easy to compare across different VPN services—most VPNs will simply say their protocol of choice is the best. Once you've got a shortlist of VPNs together, do some background reading on the protocols they use: Look for independent assessments of their security and transparency, technical benchmarks, and protocols that have been open sourced so they can be analyzed. OpenVPN and WireGuard are two well-regarded protocols, for example. Location and reputation Where a VPN is based is important, as well as where it connects to. Credit: Lifehacker VPN companies are bound by the laws and regulations of the country that they're based in—so it's a good idea to look for ones based in places where surveillance regulation and government monitoring is less strict. If necessary, check the VPN's policies on how it deals with data requests from the authorities and law enforcement in its local region. It's also worth weighinga VPN company's reputation: How does it make money? What other services does it offer? What's its record with data breaches? This is much more important with a VPN than it is with your streaming music provider, for example, because you're trusting it with all of your online data while you're connected. Trials and money backGenerally speaking, it's worth paying for a VPN, as you're giving it so much responsibility in terms of your online access and security. The paid options are almost always going to give you a faster and more reliable service, and if you regularly make use of a VPN then the monthly fee is well worth the investment. It is, however, worth looking for services that offer free trials and your money back if you're not satisfied (usually after 30 days). Not only does it reflect well on the VPN company, it means you can see if the VPN suits your needs—and check how fast its servers are—before signing up for any kind of payment plan. View the full article

If you signed up for an Amazon Prime membership between June 23, 2019, and June 23, 2025, Amazon might owe you as much as $51. This comes after the online retail giant entered into a settlement agreement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over allegations that the company used deceptive practices to enroll customers in its Prime membership. Here’s what you need to know. What’s happened? Amazon and the FTC have agreed to a settlement over allegations that the online retailer used deceptive practices to enroll people in its Amazon Prime membership, while also making it difficult for those same individuals to cancel the membership. The settlement was reached in September 2025, with Amazon agreeing to pay $2.5 billion to eligible U.S. customers. Of that, $1 billion goes toward paying a civil penalty. The remaining $1.5 billion will be used to refund eligible customers up to $51 each. As part of the settlement, Amazon did not admit to any wrongdoing. Who is eligible for the refund? There are two groups of people eligible for a refund. Both groups must have signed up between June 23, 2019, and June 23, 2025. Automatic payment group: In this first group, you must have enrolled in Prime through a so-called “challenged enrollment flow.” And you may not have used more than three Prime benefits in a 12-month period from June 23, 2019, to June 23, 2025. If you’re part of this group, you should have received your payment automatically by December 24, 2025, with no action required on your part. Claims process payment group: In this second group, you must have either unintentionally enrolled in Prime through a challenged enrollment flow or unsuccessfully tried to cancel Prime. Further, you must have used more than three Prime benefits but less than 10 during the covered 12-month period. The window for submitting a claim for the second group opened on Monday, January 5. According to the settlement website, eligible customers should receive a notice via mail or email with instructions for filing a claim by January 23. What is a challenged enrollment flow? According to the FTC and the settlement administrator, that term refers to various pathways to sign up for Prime: The Universal Prime Decision Page (UPDP), Shipping Option Select Page (SOSP), Prime Video enrollment flow, and Single Page Checkout (SPC). The good news is that you don’t personally need to determine if you signed up through a challenged enrollment flow to submit a claim. According to the FTC, Amazon will determine that for you. How much money does Amazon owe me? If you fall into either group, Amazon will refund your Prime membership fee up to $51. What do I have to do to get my refund? If you are part of the first group, you should have automatically received your refund payment from Amazon with no action required on your part. If you are in the second group, you should receive a notice via email or regular mail from Amazon that tells you how you can submit a claim. You have until July 21, 2026, to submit a claim. What else should I know? Those who think they may be eligible for a refund should check out the official settlement website, which has a list of frequently asked questions. View the full article

Denmark and Greenland are seeking a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio after the The President administration doubled down on its intention to take over the strategic Arctic island, a Danish territory. Tensions escalated after the White House said Tuesday that the “U.S. military is always an option.” President Donald The President has argued that the U.S. needs to control the world’s largest island to ensure its own security in the face of rising threats from China and Russia in the Arctic. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned earlier this week that a U.S. takeover would amount to the end of the NATO military alliance. “The Nordics do not lightly make statements like this,” Maria Martisiute, a defense analyst at the European Policy Centre think tank, told The Associated Press on Wednesday. “But it is The President, whose very bombastic language bordering on direct threats and intimidation, is threatening the fact to another ally by saying ‘I will control or annex the territory.'” The leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom joined Frederiksen in a statement Tuesday reaffirming that the mineral-rich island “belongs to its people.” Their statement defended the sovereignty of Greenland, which is a self-governing territory of Denmark and thus part of NATO. This weekend’s U.S. military action in Venezuela has heightened fears across Europe, and The President and his advisers in recent days have reiterated the U.S. leader’s desire to take over the island, which guards the Arctic and North Atlantic approaches to North America. “It’s so strategic right now,” The President told reporters Sunday. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and his Greenlandic counterpart, Vivian Motzfeldt, have requested the meeting with Rubio in the near future, according to a statement posted Tuesday to Greenland’s government website. Previous requests for a sit-down were not successful, the statement said. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said he spoke by phone Tuesday with Rubio, who dismissed the idea of a Venezuela-style operation in Greenland. “In the United States, there is massive support for the country belonging to NATO – a membership that, from one day to the next, would be compromised by … any form of aggressiveness toward another member of NATO,” Barrot told France Inter radio Wednesday. Asked if he has a plan in case The President does claim Greenland, Barrot said he won’t engage in “fiction diplomacy.” While most U.S. Republicans have supported The President’s statement, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Thom Tillis, the Democratic and Republican co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate NATO Observer Group, blasted The President’s rhetoric in a statement Tuesday. “When Denmark and Greenland make it clear that Greenland is not for sale, the United States must honor its treaty obligations and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark,” the statement said. “Any suggestion that our nation would subject a fellow NATO ally to coercion or external pressure undermines the very principles of self-determination that our Alliance exists to defend.” Associated Press journalists Geir Moulson in Berlin and Mark Carlson in Brussels contributed to this report. —Stefanie Dazio, Associated Press View the full article

This analysis explains why AI-driven search surfaces out-of-market sources and how organizations can align semantic authority with commercial usability. The post Why Global Search Misalignment Is An Engineering Feature And A Business Bug appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article