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A Power BI dashboard is one of the many visual tools for data analytics and business intelligence offered in Microsoft Power BI. But a Power BI dashboard isn’t the easiest feature to configure. We’ll illustrate how to create a Power BI dashboard to help clear that hurdle. There are pros and cons to using a Power BI dashboard, which we’ll explore, and show how they work with Power BI reports. There are also integrations with Power BI that can help make dashboards that are easier to use and capture more pertinent data. What Is a Power BI Dashboard? A Power BI dashboard, also called a canvas, is a single page that tells a story through data visualizations. A lot of information can be collected on the Power BI dashboard, which makes it imperative that it’s well-designed and only captures the highlights. Clicking on the charts and graphs will take users to related and more detailed reports. The various visualizations seen on the Power BI dashboard are called tiles. Users pin the tiles to the dashboard from reports. Think of the dashboard as a high-level overview of the underlying reports and semantic models it reflects. Many different tiles can be pinned to a Power BI dashboard, such as a tile from a report, another dashboard, or Excel. Images, videos and more can also be added to the Power BI dashboard. While Power BI dashboards are good for visualization, they’re hard to make and require customization. That takes time away from more important project tasks. A Power BI dashboard should be helpful, not frustrating. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with automated dashboards that don’t require lengthy and complicated setup and update in real time. Power BI users can even integrate with ProjectManager to deliver project data to Power BI. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Light-mode-portfolio-dashboard-CTA.pngLearn more Power BI Dashboard Pricing The dashboard functionality in Microsoft Power BI is included within the platform’s overall licensing tiers. Dashboards aren’t sold separately, but the ability to share, collaborate and distribute dashboards depends on the plan you choose. Here’s how dashboard availability aligns with Power BI pricing as of November 19, 2025. Free: Dashboards can be created and viewed for personal use, but sharing and collaboration are not included. Power BI Pro ($14.00/user/month): Dashboards include full sharing, publishing and collaboration capabilities for teams. Power BI Premium Per User ($24.00/user/month): Includes all Pro dashboard capabilities plus advanced features such as larger models and higher refresh rates. Power BI Premium Per Capacity (custom pricing): Allows large-scale dashboard distribution, including sharing with external users and embedding dashboards in applications. Microsoft Power BI Dashboard Features The dashboard capability in Microsoft Power BI delivers a one-page visual canvas to monitor key metrics at a glance. It allows you to pin visuals from reports and other sources into a unified view, combining on-premises and cloud data for real-time visibility. With interactive visuals, alerts and sharing options, dashboards provide a concise entry point into deeper analytics. Single-canvas, one-page dashboard layout. Ability to pin tiles from reports, dashboards, Excel and full report pages. Combines on-premises and cloud data in one unified view. Interactive tiles that update automatically as data changes. Alerts and email subscriptions for dashboard tiles. Natural-language Q&A box on the dashboard. Sharing and collaboration options for dashboards. Governance and performance optimization guidelines available. What Project Management Features Is Power BI Dashboard Missing? While Power BI dashboards excel at visualizing data, they aren’t designed to perform full project-management functions. Features like task scheduling, resource allocation, workflow approvals or baseline tracking aren’t part of the dashboard experience. Organizations using Power BI for project oversight typically pair it with dedicated project-management tools that provide these operational capabilities. No native planned vs actual cost management or cost-baseline tracking. No built-in budget-tracking module with re-forecasting or variance analysis. No workload analysis engine to manage capacity, resource leveling or assignments. No task-level progress-tracking workflows (percent complete, status updates, approvals). No integrated scope-tracking or scope-change control capabilities. No built-in Gantt scheduling, baseline comparison or schedule-adjustment interface. No native risk or issue log management with mitigation tracking. Microsoft Power BI Dashboard Example We’ve created a Power BI dashboard that can help you compare estimated costs and duration of project tasks against their actual values. This Power BI dashboard example shows tasks for a construction project. It combines a table, stacked bar charts and numeric card values to help you determine whether your project has been completed on budget and schedule. /wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Power-BI-dashboard.png Depending on the type of project data, you can use other Power BI data visualization tools such as pie charts, scatter charts, line charts and other types of graphs and custom visuals. ProjectManager Is the Best Power BI Integration for Project Management A dashboard for Power BI has a lot of value, but it can be difficult to build. The whole point of a dashboard is to have a simple visual tool to understand complex information. Having to go through a complicated and lengthy process to create one defeats the purpose. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that automatically creates powerful real-time dashboards that integrate with Power BI to import project information with financial data for better decision-making. Power BI isn’t a project management tool. Our software does more than monitor data. /wp-content/uploads/2023/06/project-dashboard-template.jpg Get your free Project Dashboard Template Use this free Project Dashboard Template to manage your projects better. Get the Template Use Multiple Tools to Plan, Schedule and Monitor Projects Unlike Power BI, our software has all the features to plan, schedule and monitor projects. Managers can schedule tasks on robust Gantt charts or the sheet view that link all four types of task dependencies to avoid costly delays, filter for the critical path to identify essential tasks and set a baseline to track actual progress against the planned progress to help stay on schedule. Teams can execute tasks on powerful task lists or kanban boards to visually manage their workflow and stakeholders can get an overview of the project’s progress on the calendar view. Real-time dashboards monitor the project at a high level and customizable reports provide more detail. /wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Manufacturing-gantt-chart-light-mode-costs-exposed-.png Monitor the Team’s Availability, Workload and Labor Costs Managing resources delivers successful projects. When onboarding teams, set their availability, including PTO, vacation time and global holidays to streamline assignments. Then use the color-coded workload chart or team page to see who is over or underallocated. Managers can balance their team’s workload from those pages to keep everyone working at capacity, which improves morale and boosts productivity. Use secure timesheets to help facilitate the payroll process but to also get visibility into how far each team member is in finishing their tasks. That way, managers can see if they’re on schedule and labor costs aren’t negatively impacting the budget. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png How to Create a Dashboard in Power BI Getting the key insights from a Power BI dashboard doesn’t require certification in IT. A Power BI dashboard can be built from one or several reports. This allows users to see the report data that compiles multiple pages on one page. However, a Power BI dashboard can’t be filtered like reports or edited. Follow these steps to build a dashboard in Power BI. 1. Import Data and Choose the Information to Display in the Power BI Dashboard Start by opening Power BI and from the navigation pane select My Workspace. Click on Get Data at the bottom of that menu. Under files, select Get and find the Excel file and click Import. Power BI will then automatically import that data. 2. Select the Graphs & Charts With Which to Build Your Power BI Dashboard Many graphs and charts can display data on the Power BI dashboard. Below are some of the more common ones. Bar Charts: Standard way to look at specific values across different categories. You can use these to make a Gantt chart in Power BI. Pie Charts: Shows the relationship between the part to the whole. Area Charts: Line chart with the area between the axis and the line filled in. These emphasize the magnitude of change over time. Matrix: Like a table with two dimensions, but easier to display data meaningfully across multiple dimensions. Scatter and Bubble Charts: Has two value axes to show one set of numerical data along a horizontal intersection of an x and y numerical value, combining these values into single data points. Gauge Charts: A circular arc that displays a single value that measures progress towards a goal. 3. Use Slicers and Filters to Analyze Your Data Slicers are a user-friendly approach to making simple selections to filter the Power BI dashboard. Filters are displayed along the right side of the report and enable users to apply a set of values and narrow the results displayed on the dashboard. 4. Make and Share Reports With the Team With the report server feature of Power BI, users can make, share and publish project reports and dashboards. There are also collaborative features that allow users to share these reports and dashboards within their workspaces and everyone in that channel will be notified when a new report is generated. 5. Update the Data in the Power BI Dashboard To ensure that the dashboard is displaying current data and not outdated, it must be updated. This is done by replacing the old report after updating the report on the desktop. The dashboard will automatically update. Power BI Dashboard vs. Report While a Power BI dashboard gets data from the underlying report, the two are different features. A Power BI dashboard is a collection of data that is visually displayed to tell a story in charts and graphs. A report is usually a detailed summary of the large data set as per the criteria given by a user. Reports are generally multiple pages, dashboards display only the important information from large data sets and are used for quick decision-making. Reports are also embedded with slicers and filters. If the summary table shows only monthly sales, by adding the category field to the slicers, one can select each category individually and see how each category performs across months. Dashboards don’t have this interactivity. Dashboards can create alerts to email when a specific condition or criteria is met or a limit is crossed. Reports, however, can’t create alerts to email when a specific condition or criteria is met or a limit is crossed. Source data isn’t viewed in the Power BI dashboard because the user only gets single-page information. Reports, on the other hand, can see tables, data sets and data fields in detail. Therefore, both Power BI dashboards and reports are important for monitoring data, they do it differently. What Are Power BI Dashboards Used for? A Power BI dashboard is a data visualization tool to make it easier to analyze large data sets. They can import data from an Excel spreadsheet, a CSV file or other formats and the user can choose among a variety of Power BI charts and graphs to make the dashboard and visualize the data more digestibly. Power BI dashboards are integral to an organization’s business intelligence strategy. They should be purpose-built and designed to analyze data from key data sets. This will help businesses improve their decision-making process. Rather than analysts having to manually compile spreadsheets, using a Power BI dashboard allows them to access, analyze, display and share data on web-based dashboards. Stakeholders can review, draw conclusions and act from the data on Power BI dashboards. Non-technical users can leverage Power BI dashboards to take complex data and make it understandable and approachable. For example, Chipotle uses Power BI dashboards to create a unified view of their restaurant locations. They can then streamline their analytical processes to identify trends, both positive and negative and even offer predictive insights. Another example is when Charles Schwab helped bank branches create Power BI dashboards to track performance. They tracked customer satisfaction with their products without having to analyze pages of spreadsheets. Related Power BI and Dashboard Content For readers who want to learn more about dashboards, below are a couple of blog posts that explore must-have project dashboard tools and a free project dashboard template for Excel that can be downloaded now. Also, there’s a piece on how to make a Gantt chart for Power BI. 4 Must-Have Project Dashboard Tools Project Dashboard Template (Free Excel Download) What Is Power BI? Uses, Features and Pricing Power BI Gantt Chart: A How-to Guide With Pros, Cons & Alternatives ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can collaborate by sharing files, commenting on the task level and staying updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post How to Create a Power BI Dashboard: Pros & Cons (Example Included) appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Tyson Foods has agreed to stop making claims about reaching “net zero” or selling “climate-smart” beef for at least five years, part of a settlement from a lawsuit brought against it by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG). EWG sued Tyson in 2024 over “false or misleading” marketing claims. The lawsuit, filed in D.C. Superior Court, alleged that Tyson misled customers through materials that said the company’s industrial meat production operations will reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and also claims that it produces “climate-smart” beef. Beef is one of the worst climate offenders when it comes to proteins. It is responsible for eight to 10 times the carbon emissions as chicken and up to 50 times those of beans. Climate experts highlight beef’s immense land and water use, deforestation, and the methane emissions from cattle as top environmental impacts. In the United States, agriculture at large accounts for about 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. About half of that comes from livestock, with cattle specifically making up 35% of agriculture emissions. “No plan” to achieve net zero goals In 2023, Tyson launched a “Climate-Smart Beef Program.” It advertised that its “Brazen Beef” products were part of that program, and that they came from animals raised “with emissions reduction practices in mind,” per the lawsuit. On its Brazen Beef website, Tyson had said that its emissions were already down 10% (the website is no longer available). But EWG says that Tyson never defined “what exactly ‘climate-smart beef’ is, what baseline it is using for comparison, or how it is measuring any alleged [greenhouse gass] reductions,” the lawsuit reads. The lawsuit also alleged that Tyson “has no plan” to achieve its net zero goals. In the settlement, announced this week, Tyson agreed to no longer make those environmental claims for five years. Tyson also cannot introduce new environmental claims “unless they are supported by expert analysis and verified facts,” per the nonprofit. “The five-year restriction is meaningful because it prevents Tyson from turning around and re-introducing these claims without doing the hard work to substantiate them,” Caroline Leary, general counsel and chief operating officer at EWG, says via email. “Five years is a substantial window for a company of Tyson’s size to either make real, measurable progress on reducing its emissions, or for it to reconsider the accuracy of the claims it makes to consumers,” she adds. In a statement, a Tyson spokesperson says the settlement does not represent any admission of wrongdoing by the company. “Tyson Foods has a long-held core value to serve as stewards of the land, animals and resources entrusted to our care,” the spokesperson added. Spin and bones The Tyson settlement comes in the same month as a separate settlement between the New York attorney general’s office and JBS USA, part of the world’s largest meat company. In that settlement, JBS also agreed to stop making unsubstantiated claims about reaching net-zero emissions. JBS USA will also pay $1.1 million for agriculture programs to help New York farmers reduce emissions and become more climate resilient. The settlements highlight both the environmental impact of meat companies and also their intense marketing practices. A 2024 report found that meat and dairy companies are failing to address these impacts, and none have net-zero targets that meet UN standards. The industries spend more on advertising than on climate solutions, the report found. EWG, which was represented by  the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Earthjustice, Edelson PC, and FarmSTAND in the suit, called the settlement a “significant victory” and says it will continue to review climate claims across the meat industry. “Our hope is that this settlement raises the bar for the entire industry, and that companies like Tyson will take a fresh look at what substantiation actually requires,” Leary says. “If Tyson or any other company chooses to resume climate claims without the evidence to back them up, we will be prepared to take appropriate action. Consumers deserve truth in advertising, now and in the future.” View the full article

Subscribe to Work LifeGet stories like this in your inbox Subscribe Though it’s become something of a cliche, it’s probably not too often that we’re actually posed the question “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Some among us will have that five-year plan mapped out and memorized – they’d be able to answer without missing a beat. But for many more of us, even if we’re happy at work, there’s a distinct lack of ownership over our professional paths. A whopping nine in 10 workers say they feel stuck in their jobs. Rapid changes in the workplace — from shifting priorities to new AI-powered tools – can make it feel like your career is happening to you instead of with you. One sure-fire antidote is setting professional development goals. Read more for the how and the why. What are professional development goals (and why do they matter)? Related Article Don’t underestimate the outsized impact of short-term goals By Kat Boogaard In Productivity Professional development goals are objectives you set that benefit or improve your career in some way. While that might immediately make you think of landing a promotion, job growth is only the tip of the iceberg. There’s plenty of variety in the professional development goals you can set for yourself, including: Developing a look-forward plan focusing on advancing or growing in your career Improving your skills and knowledge, whether in a current strength area or an aspirational one Building your digital and AI literacy, so you can confidently use new tools to support your work rather than be overwhelmed by them Building a network of people who have the knowledge and/or skills you aspire to own Boosting your productivity and efficiency, so you have more time for what you like to do most Enhancing your well-being While our focus here is on the professional goals you set for yourself, managers and employees can also work collaboratively to determine these objectives as part of a career development plan. Rich Hurley, former Senior Program Manager for Team Anywhere at Atlassian, was part of the core team that rolled out our employee growth profiles. Each profile includes a list of career competencies – the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that are specifically valued in a particular profession – and are connected to future career growth. They’re used in quarterly check-ins and the assessment process, meaning that managers and employees are each held accountable for assessing, reflecting on, and discussing each employee’s career. “To me,” Rich says, “the most impactful managers are the ones who take it one step further and focus beyond the role you currently hold and rather explore together where you want to be one, three, five years from now.” But regardless of how heavily your manager is involved, setting these goals is more than a formality or a feel-good exercise. They significantly impact your motivation, commitment, and career satisfaction. Goals trigger dopamine, the neurotransmitter frequently associated with feelings of pleasure and gratification. And you don’t just get a dopamine spike when you achieve a goal — simply setting a goal triggers that neurotransmitter and pushes you toward that potential reward (hence the boost in motivation). How to set professional development goals: 4 tips for meaningful missions You likely have a few targets lingering in your mind, but bringing some structure to those loose objectives can help you transform them from ideas to action plans. Here are four tips to set meaningful professional development goals. 1. Consider your values Your professional development goals shouldn’t just be meaningful — they should be meaningful to you. Achieving a goal isn’t satisfying if the outcome doesn’t align with your priorities, principles, and ambitions. Rich says, “Too many times, we wait for the organization we work for to decide a topic or skill is important. I’d urge people to spend the time, effort, and resources on skill development that matters to them. Disentangling learning and development from your workplace is freeing; it puts you in the driver’s seat.” Sure, that promotion might look good on paper. But if you’re ultimately seeking a better work-life balance or a fresh start down an exciting path, then greater responsibility at work may eventually feel more like a detour from that five-year plan than a success. Not sure how to identify your core values? Print these cards and then sort them into three piles: Very important to me Important to me Not important to me Once you have a stack of cards that are very important to you, narrow it down to only 10 must-haves. Just like that, you have your core values. Rich shares an experience from his own career: “During an interview for my grad school internship, a team member asked me three questions: ‘Who are you? Where are you going? Why?’ They’re incredibly hard to answer, but give you a lens into how someone views themselves, what aspirations they have, and why those aspirations matter to them. I would recommend that everyone be ready to answer these questions for themselves. They’re an introspective vehicle for discovering what truly matters to you.” 2. Use the SMART goal framework Related Article How to write SMART goals By Kat Boogaard In Productivity SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Using this framework pushes you beyond vague objectives to ones that are detailed enough to motivate you (and they make it easier to monitor your progress too). For example, maybe your goal is to improve your public speaking skills. Applying the SMART goal framework, your final goal could look like this: Improve my public speaking skills and my visibility within the company by taking a public speaking course, using an AI-powered presentation coach to practice talks twice a month, and volunteering as a speaker for at least three company-wide events this year. 3. Identify relevant action items Take another look at the example goal above and you’ll see that it doesn’t just state an objective, but also specific steps to get there: Professional development goal: Improve public speaking skills Related action items: Take a public speaking course Volunteer as a speaker for at least three company events You can set long-term goals or short-term goals. Breaking your bigger objectives into smaller tasks or milestones makes the objective feel more achievable and the process more enjoyable — as you can celebrate those small wins along the way. 4. Use the buddy system Rich is a big believer in the power of having a partner to keep us company on our professional development journey. “Learning and developing is a team sport,” he says. “You can take in knowledge, listen to a workshop, and reflect on its relevance to your life – but processing alone will only take you so far. It’s uncanny how having a partner can open your eyes to what you missed.” A like-minded co-worker or friend can offer a frame of reference beyond your own, allowing you to see how your journey might look different from another person’s perspective. 6 examples of professional development goals to inspire you Related Article Better together: 8 essential teamwork skills to master By Kat Boogaard In Teamwork One of the best parts about professional development goals is that you have the flexibility to identify and create the ones that are the most meaningful and best fit for you. But if you need a little inspiration to get started, take a peek at these examples. 1. Learn a new skill or improve an existing one Professional development goal: Expand my proficiency in SQL programming by the end of 2025. Related action items: Complete the Microsoft SQL Server Certification during Q4 of 2024. Complete a CRM database using SQL by May 2025. 2. Achieve better work-life balance Professional development goal: Improve my work-life balance and reduce my work-related stress levels over the next six months. Related action items: Commit to a firm sign-off time of 5pm three days per week. Schedule and stick to a weekly hobby or self-care activity (such as a book club or workout class). 3. Land a promotion Professional development goal: Move up to a manager position within the next two years. Related action items: Draft a detailed career pathway or development plan with my supervisor by the end of this month. Volunteer to lead three large team projects over the next six months. Schedule a coffee chat with a team member (even better if it’s a manager) from another department every three months to gain exposure and understand different parts of the company. 4. Build your professional network Professional development goal: Expand my professional network this year to stay connected to industry trends and career opportunities. Related action items: Attend one industry networking event each quarter. Join one professional organization or association by the end of the year. 5. Increase your industry knowledge Professional development goal: Build more expertise, credibility, and name recognition within my industry. Related action items: Register for and attend one industry webinar each month. Read at least one industry-relevant book every quarter. 6. Build AI literacy relevant to your role Professional development goal: Become confident and competent in using AI tools that support my day-to-day work by the end of this year. Related action items: Complete one introductory course on AI fundamentals for non-technical professionals by the end of Q1. Choose one AI-powered tool that’s relevant to my role (for writing, coding, analysis, or project management) and use it at least once a week for three months, documenting what works and what doesn’t. Feeling overwhelmed? Your professional goals should be inspiring — not intimidating. If you just need an easy win to gain some momentum, try out some of these low-pressure, quick-win professional development goals: Dust off your LinkedIn profile and update it with recent skills, achievements, and experiences. Dedicate 30 minutes this week to learning and development, such as reading relevant articles, listening to podcasts, or watching webinars. Test out one new time management strategy this week. Reach out to one existing colleague or networking contact to check in or share a helpful resource. Know what you want – and go for it If you’re tired of feeling stuck or stagnant in your career – especially as new technologies like AI reshape many roles – setting and working toward professional development goals can help. Put the above tips and examples to work and you’ll get out of the daily drudgery and start making meaningful progress on goals that matter most to you. “Taking ownership of our path and how we get there is not only liberating, but necessary,” Rich says. “And the best time to start is always now.” Subscribe to Work LifeGet stories like this in your inbox Subscribe The post How to harness the power of professional development goals appeared first on Work Life by Atlassian. View the full article

Subscribe to Work LifeGet stories like this in your inbox Subscribe Though it’s become something of a cliche, it’s probably not too often that we’re actually posed the question “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Some among us will have that five-year plan mapped out and memorized – they’d be able to answer without missing a beat. But for many more of us, even if we’re happy at work, there’s a distinct lack of ownership over our professional paths. A whopping nine in 10 workers say they feel stuck in their jobs. Rapid changes in the workplace — from shifting priorities to new AI-powered tools – can make it feel like your career is happening to you instead of with you. One sure-fire antidote is setting professional development goals. Read more for the how and the why. What are professional development goals (and why do they matter)? Related Article Don’t underestimate the outsized impact of short-term goals By Kat Boogaard In Productivity Professional development goals are objectives you set that benefit or improve your career in some way. While that might immediately make you think of landing a promotion, job growth is only the tip of the iceberg. There’s plenty of variety in the professional development goals you can set for yourself, including: Developing a look-forward plan focusing on advancing or growing in your career Improving your skills and knowledge, whether in a current strength area or an aspirational one Building your digital and AI literacy, so you can confidently use new tools to support your work rather than be overwhelmed by them Building a network of people who have the knowledge and/or skills you aspire to own Boosting your productivity and efficiency, so you have more time for what you like to do most Enhancing your well-being While our focus here is on the professional goals you set for yourself, managers and employees can also work collaboratively to determine these objectives as part of a career development plan. Rich Hurley, former Senior Program Manager for Team Anywhere at Atlassian, was part of the core team that rolled out our employee growth profiles. Each profile includes a list of career competencies – the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that are specifically valued in a particular profession – and are connected to future career growth. They’re used in quarterly check-ins and the assessment process, meaning that managers and employees are each held accountable for assessing, reflecting on, and discussing each employee’s career. “To me,” Rich says, “the most impactful managers are the ones who take it one step further and focus beyond the role you currently hold and rather explore together where you want to be one, three, five years from now.” But regardless of how heavily your manager is involved, setting these goals is more than a formality or a feel-good exercise. They significantly impact your motivation, commitment, and career satisfaction. Goals trigger dopamine, the neurotransmitter frequently associated with feelings of pleasure and gratification. And you don’t just get a dopamine spike when you achieve a goal — simply setting a goal triggers that neurotransmitter and pushes you toward that potential reward (hence the boost in motivation). How to set professional development goals: 4 tips for meaningful missions You likely have a few targets lingering in your mind, but bringing some structure to those loose objectives can help you transform them from ideas to action plans. Here are four tips to set meaningful professional development goals. 1. Consider your values Your professional development goals shouldn’t just be meaningful — they should be meaningful to you. Achieving a goal isn’t satisfying if the outcome doesn’t align with your priorities, principles, and ambitions. Rich says, “Too many times, we wait for the organization we work for to decide a topic or skill is important. I’d urge people to spend the time, effort, and resources on skill development that matters to them. Disentangling learning and development from your workplace is freeing; it puts you in the driver’s seat.” Sure, that promotion might look good on paper. But if you’re ultimately seeking a better work-life balance or a fresh start down an exciting path, then greater responsibility at work may eventually feel more like a detour from that five-year plan than a success. Not sure how to identify your core values? Print these cards and then sort them into three piles: Very important to me Important to me Not important to me Once you have a stack of cards that are very important to you, narrow it down to only 10 must-haves. Just like that, you have your core values. Rich shares an experience from his own career: “During an interview for my grad school internship, a team member asked me three questions: ‘Who are you? Where are you going? Why?’ They’re incredibly hard to answer, but give you a lens into how someone views themselves, what aspirations they have, and why those aspirations matter to them. I would recommend that everyone be ready to answer these questions for themselves. They’re an introspective vehicle for discovering what truly matters to you.” 2. Use the SMART goal framework Related Article How to write SMART goals By Kat Boogaard In Productivity SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Using this framework pushes you beyond vague objectives to ones that are detailed enough to motivate you (and they make it easier to monitor your progress too). For example, maybe your goal is to improve your public speaking skills. Applying the SMART goal framework, your final goal could look like this: Improve my public speaking skills and my visibility within the company by taking a public speaking course, using an AI-powered presentation coach to practice talks twice a month, and volunteering as a speaker for at least three company-wide events this year. 3. Identify relevant action items Take another look at the example goal above and you’ll see that it doesn’t just state an objective, but also specific steps to get there: Professional development goal: Improve public speaking skills Related action items: Take a public speaking course Volunteer as a speaker for at least three company events You can set long-term goals or short-term goals. Breaking your bigger objectives into smaller tasks or milestones makes the objective feel more achievable and the process more enjoyable — as you can celebrate those small wins along the way. 4. Use the buddy system Rich is a big believer in the power of having a partner to keep us company on our professional development journey. “Learning and developing is a team sport,” he says. “You can take in knowledge, listen to a workshop, and reflect on its relevance to your life – but processing alone will only take you so far. It’s uncanny how having a partner can open your eyes to what you missed.” A like-minded co-worker or friend can offer a frame of reference beyond your own, allowing you to see how your journey might look different from another person’s perspective. 6 examples of professional development goals to inspire you Related Article Better together: 8 essential teamwork skills to master By Kat Boogaard In Teamwork One of the best parts about professional development goals is that you have the flexibility to identify and create the ones that are the most meaningful and best fit for you. But if you need a little inspiration to get started, take a peek at these examples. 1. Learn a new skill or improve an existing one Professional development goal: Expand my proficiency in SQL programming by the end of 2025. Related action items: Complete the Microsoft SQL Server Certification during Q4 of 2024. Complete a CRM database using SQL by May 2025. 2. Achieve better work-life balance Professional development goal: Improve my work-life balance and reduce my work-related stress levels over the next six months. Related action items: Commit to a firm sign-off time of 5pm three days per week. Schedule and stick to a weekly hobby or self-care activity (such as a book club or workout class). 3. Land a promotion Professional development goal: Move up to a manager position within the next two years. Related action items: Draft a detailed career pathway or development plan with my supervisor by the end of this month. Volunteer to lead three large team projects over the next six months. Schedule a coffee chat with a team member (even better if it’s a manager) from another department every three months to gain exposure and understand different parts of the company. 4. Build your professional network Professional development goal: Expand my professional network this year to stay connected to industry trends and career opportunities. Related action items: Attend one industry networking event each quarter. Join one professional organization or association by the end of the year. 5. Increase your industry knowledge Professional development goal: Build more expertise, credibility, and name recognition within my industry. Related action items: Register for and attend one industry webinar each month. Read at least one industry-relevant book every quarter. 6. Build AI literacy relevant to your role Professional development goal: Become confident and competent in using AI tools that support my day-to-day work by the end of this year. Related action items: Complete one introductory course on AI fundamentals for non-technical professionals by the end of Q1. Choose one AI-powered tool that’s relevant to my role (for writing, coding, analysis, or project management) and use it at least once a week for three months, documenting what works and what doesn’t. Feeling overwhelmed? Your professional goals should be inspiring — not intimidating. If you just need an easy win to gain some momentum, try out some of these low-pressure, quick-win professional development goals: Dust off your LinkedIn profile and update it with recent skills, achievements, and experiences. Dedicate 30 minutes this week to learning and development, such as reading relevant articles, listening to podcasts, or watching webinars. Test out one new time management strategy this week. Reach out to one existing colleague or networking contact to check in or share a helpful resource. Know what you want – and go for it If you’re tired of feeling stuck or stagnant in your career – especially as new technologies like AI reshape many roles – setting and working toward professional development goals can help. Put the above tips and examples to work and you’ll get out of the daily drudgery and start making meaningful progress on goals that matter most to you. “Taking ownership of our path and how we get there is not only liberating, but necessary,” Rich says. “And the best time to start is always now.” Subscribe to Work LifeGet stories like this in your inbox Subscribe The post How to harness the power of professional development goals appeared first on Work Life by Atlassian. View the full article

Wall Street shares have seen big swings this week as investors brace for all-important earnings from AI bellwetherView the full article

With iPadOS 26, Apple is finally giving the iPad a software experience that’s worthy of its increasingly powerful hardware. But it’s still very much a start. Answering calls to make the iPad more like a Mac, Apple has added much-requested features like freeform window multitasking, background app processes, better file management, and more. It’s surprising how much you can now do on an iPad that was just not possible before. And for many users, especially school/college students and some business users, the new changes can actually translate to tangible productivity gains. But for most, it's probably still worth holding onto your Mac. The iPad's new windowing system is good, but a bit messyApple now offers three different multitasking modes on the iPad. And it can be a bit overwhelming. There’s the default Full-Screen mode, the new Windowed Apps mode, and the old-school Stage Manager mode. Credit: Khamosh Pathak But for most users, I think defaulting to the Windowed Apps mode is the best option. This is where you can use the handle icon in the bottom-right corner of any window to resize it and move it anywhere you want. Need to open another app? Just repeat the process (although I think it's pretty jarring that every new app first opens full-screen, and then needs to be resized down). If you have a newer, more powerful iPad, Windowed mode lets you comfortably use seven or ten apps together in the same desktop without missing a beat. That's not a limit with iPadOS 26, to be clear, but once you go over 10 apps, things start to get a bit laggy. I can pull off opening a couple of apps together on my aging iPad Pro from 2018, but that's about it. Credit: Khamosh Pathak You can use the new traffic-light buttons (straight from macOS) to close, minimize, or expand your windowed apps (something I’m still not used to). You can also swipe down from the top to access a Mac-like menu bar. This will hold app-related shortcuts and offer ways to move or dock apps to the left or right. The Windowed app mode also has a version of the classic Split View, if you just want to dock two apps side by side. Pick up a window, and flick it to the left or right. When there are just two windows on the screen, you’ll see a little handle in the middle to freely resize the windows. Credit: Jake Peterson With the iPadOS 26.1 update, Apple also brought back Slide Over, a crowd favorite that lets key apps slide in and out of view as needed, but it works in a slightly different manner now. From the menu bar, you can pin any window to the top of the screen to be your Slide Over app. And because this window itself is freeform, you can now resize it to any size you want (something that wasn’t possible before). Though, it’s still a downgrade in a sense because you can only pin one window at a time (before, you could pin multiple windows in Split View and switch between them like you do on the iPhone). I'll admit that all of this can seem like a bit much on such a small, touch-based screen, especially for the iPad users who are used to the traditional approach to Split View and Slide Over. Apple really isn't helping the case by separating out the different modes. Though, like most things, it's a learning curve that you can get over pretty quickly. In time, I think the gesture for resizing windows will become second nature. How the iPad is inching closer to the MacBeyond Windowed mode, The iPadOS 26 update rights many other wrongs, all of which bring over key functionality from the Mac, though there are still sometimes caveats. External monitor support is finally worth using, and doesn’t require you to use Stage Manager. Now, the display automatically adapts to the 16:9 aspect ratio of the monitor, so no more black bars. But you still can’t use the external display as the primary display, as you can on the Mac (the menu bar and Control Center still only work on the iPad). That means you always have to have the iPad display on, and you can't connect to more than one external monitor. Credit: Khamosh Pathak The Files app is also much improved, combining a column layout with the ability to expand nested folders while in the same view. You can also add custom-colored icons. Plus, you can now add folders to the Dock for quick access. And finally, you can assign a default app for file extensions right in the Files app. The new Preview app makes it easy to view and mark up PDFs and images, too. There’s also support for background tasks in the Files app and some third-party apps. That means longer actions, like moving large folders or downloading large files, can continue in the background (monitored via Live Activities). Switching to a different app won’t kill large exports of render jobs. There’s even a new Local Capture feature that lets you record professional audio from any attached microphone, and it supports independent audio capture from multiple microphones at once. A boon for podcasters and YouTubers. How the iPad still falls behind the MacThe iPadOS 26 update has a lot of useful, desktop-like features. But at its core, it’s still iPadOS, built on iOS. It is still sandboxed, and installing apps from outside of the App Store is not intended and requires lengthy workarounds. Many popular desktop-class apps also just won’t work on the iPad (like the full version of Adobe Premiere, the macOS version of Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, coding IDEs, and more). Even Safari on the iPad is limited, and doesn’t offer desktop-class support. A lot of heavy/dynamic sites refuse to function on the iPad, but work well on Safari on a Mac. There’s also no Terminal, so you can’t do things like running Homebrew projects, automation scripts, and more. iPadOS 26, is still single-user focused, so you can’t create multiple accounts like you can on the Mac. As discussed above, the external display mode, while a nice addition, is also severely limited. Can you replace a Mac with an iPad?Can an iPad replace your MacBook? The answer to that question is more personal than ever. Subjectively, I can say not yet. While the new windowing system and background processes are a great start, it still lacks the core features that make a Mac so helpful. For someone like me who relies on desktop-class apps, dynamic websites, and loves the hundred little utilities that are only possible on the Mac, the iPad really can’t replace my MacBook. But the iPad can be a great companion for me, and is. I love using the iPad for research, reading, taking notes, and watching media. Now, with the new features in the iPadOS 26 update, I can see podcasters and even content creators take up an iPad as their main computer. It really depends on your workflow. For light workflow like editing documents, managing PDFs, taking notes, emails, and online meetings, the iPad is very much comparable to the Mac. And thanks to its cellular connectivity, it might even have an edge for people who are always on the road. If you like the idea of a light-weight tablet that’s built-really well, or if you’re a creative, the iPad can make a lot of sense for you. For everyone else, I would recommend you pick up at least an M4 MacBook Air, which goes on sale regularly and costs less than an iPad Pro. View the full article

Starting a new job can be exhilarating and stressful at the same time. You are excited to meet new people, take on new responsibilities, and grow. You also want to demonstrate to your new employer that they made the right choice by hiring you. So, how do you put your best foot forward? Perhaps the most important thing to remember about that impression is that how you do things is more important than what you accomplish in those first few weeks. You are helping your new colleagues to get to know what it is like to work with you. This approach is valuable whether you’re entering the organization near the bottom or the top of the org chart. Listen first When you first start with a new company, you don’t know what you don’t know. Even if you have lots of experience in similar industries, you are still entering an organization with its own history, people, and ways of doing things. In addition, you are stepping into conversations that have been going on for a long time. Of course, you’re going to want to immediately demonstrate your value to others, and it will seem like the best way to do that is to make suggestions. Start by listening: How do people talk to each other? What is the best way to build on other people’s ideas? Which people in the organization have the respect of others? Who seems to have influence in meetings and behind the scenes? The best way to answer all of these questions is to listen. When you go into meetings with the intent to impress and say things, then you listen long enough to figure out what you’re going to say next. When you enter meetings to learn, then you listen a lot and miss less of the subtlety of the discussion going on around you. Be curious When you get hired, you want other people to respect the knowledge and skills you’re bringing to your new team. As a result, you may not want to admit ignorance. Instead, you should be a sponge. Assume you know very little and that you are there to learn from others rather than to spread your knowledge and wisdom. Ask a lot of questions of other people. When you hear a phrase or acronym that is new to you, stop the conversation and ask for clarification. When someone moves forward with a particular plan or a decision gets made, ask why it was done? Clarify that you’re asking “why” to understand the criteria and values people are using to reach decisions. Ask your new team members whether there are documents you can read to understand how current projects have reached the point where they are. Attend as many briefings on projects as you can. Monitor communication channels like Slack to see how projects get discussed. Admit mistakes Of course, you’re going to make mistakes. That is inevitable. It is particularly likely early on. You’re going to misunderstand an instruction, or try something and get it wrong. That doesn’t mean you should blunder about. If you are asked to do something and you’re not completely sure you understand the request, get clarification. It is better to be walked through the steps of a new task than to move forward with it and do it badly so that you or someone else has to redo it. No matter how carefully you clarify, though, you’ll do some things wrong. It is crucial that you tell a supervisor or other colleague as soon as you recognize that you have made a mistake. Ask for help and find out what you can do to correct any problems that arise. You might think that admitting a mistake will immediately tag you as someone who is not trustworthy. The paradox is that when you admit a mistake quickly, you are letting the people around you know that you are paying attention to the outcomes of your actions and that you are going to let others know as soon as something goes wrong. As a result, admitting mistakes quickly is likely to gain you trust—as long as you don’t make the same mistakes repeatedly. Be trainable and correctable When you first start in a new role, you probably feel a little apprehensive. You want to prove that you belong. When someone offers you some information or advice, you might want to demonstrate your prowess by telling others when you already know something you have been told. Resist that urge. Instead, thank people for the advice they give and for taking you under their wing. You want everyone around you to know that you can be taught and trained. Even new executives have a lot to learn. You’d like everyone in the organization to feel like they have a vested interest and a role to play in your success. In addition, if you’re in a leadership role, you should also clarify to everyone that you don’t want their deference. You are likely to say things that reflect that you are new to the organization (and have blind spots). Encourage people to correct things you say that are wrong and to push back on ideas they disagree with. Start early to create an atmosphere of productive disagreement and constructive criticism. If someone does offer you a critique of a position, accept it gracefully even if you disagree with it. Thank them for the feedback and take it seriously, even if you still think what you said originally is correct. After all, people are watching what you do as a guide toward how to treat you. If you dismiss well-intentioned feedback, you will probably dissuade other people from offering suggestions in the future. View the full article

A reader writes: We recently had an interview with a candidate who seemed very promising on paper. She had years of relevant experience and good recommendations from previous employers. Our team is remote, so this was a Teams interview and we expect everyone to be on camera. During the first few minutes, she claimed to have technical difficulties and couldn’t get her camera working. After a few minutes of trying, we decided to move forward with the interview anyway and it very quickly became apparent that the candidate was using AI to answer our questions. Her answers restated the question, they were filled with buzzwords but had no substance whatsoever, and her speaking cadence was exactly like someone reading from a script. We tried to ask her questions such as, “How did you feel about that?” and “Do you have any questions for us?” but even her answers to those questions were AI. We went through the motions, sped through the interview in about 15 minutes, and let the recruiting company know afterwards. Now I’m just wondering if we should have said or done something in the moment. She no longer had a chance at the position as soon as she read off her first answer, so should we have just stopped the interview then? This was a frankly bizarre experience and I didn’t know how to react. Given the prevalence of AI though, I want to be prepared for the next time this happens. I’m a fan of calling it out right in the moment — not just with AI, but with anything that’s off, the same as if someone were clearly reading off a written script they’d prepared or, I don’t know, seemed to be getting answers through an earpiece. So when you first started realizing what was happening, one option was to say: “It sounds like you may be looking up answers and reading them. We’re really looking for your thoughts on these questions.” If she course-corrected at that point, well … it’s still a pretty big strike against her and I’m skeptical someone would be able to come back from it, but it would be interesting to see how the interview went after that. And if she kept doing it even after you called it out, it would be reasonable to say, “As I said, we’re really looking for your thoughts here, not what you’re looking up, so it doesn’t make sense to continue this interview. We’ll wrap up here, and best of luck of to you.” (And part of the advantage of the first call-out is that it makes it possible for you to do this next.) The post what to do when a candidate is using AI during an interview appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

President The President has nominated Stuart Levenbach, Associate Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to be the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. His selection allows acting CFPB Director Russell Vought to remain in place for another 210 days. View the full article

FCA says ‘consolidated tape’ for equities will bring benefits worth £100mn over next decadeView the full article

When you’re considering buying into a business, it’s essential to approach the process methodically. Start by identifying your interests and skills to find a business that suits you. Then, conduct thorough research to discover available opportunities and understand the seller’s motivations. As you progress, assess the financial health of the business and explore financing options. Each step is important, and knowing how to navigate them can set you up for success. What comes next may surprise you. Key Takeaways Identify your skills and interests to align with the type of business you want to acquire. Conduct thorough research on available businesses for sale through online listings and personal networks. Assess financial health and valuation of the business using appropriate methods like EBITDA or market approach. Perform detailed due diligence to uncover potential risks, liabilities, and operational challenges. Secure financing through options like SBA loans or seller financing to support your acquisition. Determine Your Business Type and Interests How do you determine the right business type and interests before making a purchase? Start by identifying your skills and experience, as aligning these with the business you want increases your chances of success. Consider your previous roles and industries; if you’ve been a long-term employee, you might be well-positioned to buy that business or a competitor. Narrow your focus to specific sectors, like retail or services, which helps streamline your search. Understand market demand for different business types to identify opportunities with growth potential. Engaging with your personal networks can likewise reveal insights into what’s available and in demand. Search for Available Businesses for Sale When you’re ready to search for available businesses for sale, start by exploring online listings on platforms like BizBuySell and BizQuest, which showcase a variety of options across different industries. Don’t overlook local newspapers and industry publications, as they often feature listings that aren’t available online, presenting unique opportunities. Furthermore, tapping into your personal and professional networks can reveal unlisted businesses or sellers looking to exit, as you engage a business broker can help you navigate the process more effectively. Online Business Listings Many potential buyers find online business listings to be a valuable resource when searching for available businesses for sale. Websites like BizBuySell.com and BizQuest.com offer a variety of options categorized by industry, location, and price. When pondering if buying a business is a good idea, these platforms can help you understand how to purchase a business effectively. Filter your search based on criteria like budget and growth potential to streamline your options. Furthermore, consider engaging a business broker for expert guidance. Although online listings are essential, remember to check local newspapers for hidden opportunities. In the end, thorough research will improve your chances of successfully buying into an existing business as a partner or owner. Local Networking Opportunities Have you considered how local networking opportunities can improve your search for available businesses for sale? Engaging in industry conferences or local meetups can connect you with current owners and professionals, revealing hidden business sale opportunities. Local newspapers and industry publications often list businesses for sale, making them crucial resources for potential buyers. Furthermore, tapping into your personal networks—friends, family, and colleagues—might uncover businesses not publicly listed. Although business brokers can assist in guiding the acquisition process, online business-for-sale platforms like BizBuySell.com provide searchable databases that help you filter by location and price. Engaging Business Brokers Engaging a business broker can greatly streamline your search for available businesses for sale, especially if you’re looking for exclusive opportunities that mightn’t be publicly advertised. Business brokers can leverage their extensive networks and industry knowledge to help you in buying an established business. They provide access to business-for-sale listings and assist in business acquisition financing. When you engage a business broker, they can help you negotiate business purchases, ensuring that your interests are represented. Remember, selecting a business broker with a good reputation and experience in your specific industry is essential for finding a suitable business. Be aware that brokers typically charge a business sale commission ranging from 5% to 10%, depending on the transaction’s complexity. Understand the Reasons Behind the Sale When considering a business purchase, it’s essential to understand the seller’s motivations, as these can greatly influence your decision. Sellers often have various reasons for selling, such as retirement or health issues, which mightn’t showcase the business’s true condition. Common Seller Motivations Comprehending the common motivations behind a business sale is crucial for any prospective buyer, as these reasons often reflect the underlying health and potential of the business. Many sellers face financial difficulties, prompting roughly 30% to list their companies because of cash flow issues or mounting debts. Others might be influenced by personal circumstances, such as health problems or family commitments, with about 20% citing these as primary factors. Furthermore, burnout from operational demands can lead to a decision to sell, as nearly half of business owners feel overwhelmed. Retirement is another significant motivator, especially with 10,000 baby boomers exiting the workforce daily. Finally, market demand changes or industry trends can force owners to reflect on business shifts. Assessing Business Challenges How can you effectively assess the challenges a business faces before buying in? Start by investigating the reasons for the sale, as they often reveal underlying issues. Look for signs like declining sales and negative cash flow, which indicate operational challenges. Assess existing debts and liabilities to understand financial struggles. Gather customer insights to evaluate the business reputation and market demands. Determine if the current owner has a clear growth strategy or if they’re relying too much on personal relationships. Consider how market changes may have affected the business’s stability. Align Your Goals and Budget With Potential Businesses Aligning your goals and budget with potential businesses is crucial for making a successful investment. Start by clearly defining your personal and financial goals, confirming they match the type, size, and industry of the business you want. Next, assess your budget to determine a realistic price range, factoring in not just the purchase price but also additional costs for improvements and operational expenses. Research the financial health of prospective businesses, focusing on revenue, profit margins, and cash flow trends to guarantee they meet your expectations. Investigate the reasons behind the sale, as this can provide insights into challenges and growth potential. Utilize business-for-sale websites, engage with brokers, and leverage your network to find suitable businesses that align with your goals. Conduct Thorough Due Diligence After you’ve aligned your goals and budget with potential businesses, the next step involves conducting thorough due diligence. This process typically requires around 500 hours of review, covering legal, financial, operational, and reputational aspects. Using an extensive due diligence checklist is crucial, as it helps you analyze past financials and verify profitability. Collaborating with experienced professionals like attorneys and CPAs can likewise aid in evaluating the risk/return profile and uncovering hidden issues. Identify pending litigation that could impact the business. Look for undisclosed liabilities that may affect finances. Investigate operational challenges that could hinder growth. Confirm financial due diligence by reviewing tax returns and income streams. Being thorough now can save you from potential pitfalls later. Evaluate Business Valuation Approaches Comprehending the various methods of business valuation is essential for making informed investment decisions. You’ll typically encounter three primary approaches: the income approach, asset approach, and market approach. The income approach focuses on profit figures, often utilizing EBITDA to determine fair market value through a capitalization rate. The asset approach measures a business’s net asset value by subtracting total liabilities from total assets, making it ideal for asset-heavy companies. Meanwhile, the market approach assesses business worth based on recent sales of comparable businesses, employing industry-standard multiples that can range from 2x to 4x annual net profit. Always verify financial records, as discrepancies can greatly misrepresent the true value of the business you’re considering. Secure Financing and Close the Deal Securing financing is a critical step in the business acquisition process, as it directly impacts your ability to complete the deal and manage future operations. You can explore various options, like SBA loans, which offer up to 90% financing, or seller financing, allowing flexible payment structures. It’s crucial to understand your capital structure to handle operational costs post-acquisition. Draft a purchase agreement detailing transaction terms. Complete an asset acquisition statement (IRS Form 8594) for tax purposes. Confirm compliance with local bulk sale laws to avoid legal issues. Seek business finance advice to navigate the financing environment effectively. Frequently Asked Questions How to Buy a Business Step by Step? To buy a business, start by identifying your strengths and interests to guarantee the venture aligns with your goals. Research available businesses through online marketplaces and personal networks. Conduct thorough due diligence, reviewing financials and evaluating risks, which can take about 500 hours. Negotiate key terms and draft a purchase agreement. Finally, secure financing through options like SBA loans, and make certain all legal documents are prepared and compliant before finalizing the transaction. How Much Down Payment for a $500,000 Business Loan? For a $500,000 business loan, your down payment typically ranges from 10% to 30%. This means you’ll need between $50,000 and $150,000 upfront, depending on the lender’s criteria and your financial situation. If you opt for an SBA loan, expect a minimum down payment of 10% to 20%, translating to $50,000 to $100,000. Seller financing may offer lower down payments, sometimes under 10%, reducing your initial cash requirement to $50,000 or less. What Are the 7 Steps in Buying an Existing Business? To buy an existing business, you’ll follow seven vital steps. First, find opportunities that match your goals. Next, negotiate terms through a letter of intent. Third, conduct thorough due diligence, examining financials and legal matters. Then, document your agreement accurately. After that, secure financing through options like SBA loans or seller financing. Once you’ve acquired the business, focus on operations. Finally, plan your exit strategy to guarantee a smooth changeover in the future. Is $5000 Enough to Start a Business? Yes, $5,000 can be enough to start a business, particularly in service-oriented fields like consulting or freelancing. You’ll likely spend this capital on crucial expenses such as website development, marketing, and operational costs. Nevertheless, if your venture requires physical inventory or a storefront, you’ll probably need a larger budget. Success often depends on utilizing low-cost marketing strategies, like social media, to grow your business without significant upfront investments. Conclusion In conclusion, buying into a business requires careful planning and execution. Start by identifying your interests, researching available options, and comprehending the seller’s motivations. Align your financial capacity with potential businesses and conduct thorough due diligence to assess their value and operational health. Finally, secure financing and prepare for a smooth shift. By following these steps, you can make informed decisions that improve your chances of a successful acquisition and encourage future growth. Image via Google Gemini This article, "A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Into a Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re considering buying into a business, it’s essential to approach the process methodically. Start by identifying your interests and skills to find a business that suits you. Then, conduct thorough research to discover available opportunities and understand the seller’s motivations. As you progress, assess the financial health of the business and explore financing options. Each step is important, and knowing how to navigate them can set you up for success. What comes next may surprise you. Key Takeaways Identify your skills and interests to align with the type of business you want to acquire. Conduct thorough research on available businesses for sale through online listings and personal networks. Assess financial health and valuation of the business using appropriate methods like EBITDA or market approach. Perform detailed due diligence to uncover potential risks, liabilities, and operational challenges. Secure financing through options like SBA loans or seller financing to support your acquisition. Determine Your Business Type and Interests How do you determine the right business type and interests before making a purchase? Start by identifying your skills and experience, as aligning these with the business you want increases your chances of success. Consider your previous roles and industries; if you’ve been a long-term employee, you might be well-positioned to buy that business or a competitor. Narrow your focus to specific sectors, like retail or services, which helps streamline your search. Understand market demand for different business types to identify opportunities with growth potential. Engaging with your personal networks can likewise reveal insights into what’s available and in demand. Search for Available Businesses for Sale When you’re ready to search for available businesses for sale, start by exploring online listings on platforms like BizBuySell and BizQuest, which showcase a variety of options across different industries. Don’t overlook local newspapers and industry publications, as they often feature listings that aren’t available online, presenting unique opportunities. Furthermore, tapping into your personal and professional networks can reveal unlisted businesses or sellers looking to exit, as you engage a business broker can help you navigate the process more effectively. Online Business Listings Many potential buyers find online business listings to be a valuable resource when searching for available businesses for sale. Websites like BizBuySell.com and BizQuest.com offer a variety of options categorized by industry, location, and price. When pondering if buying a business is a good idea, these platforms can help you understand how to purchase a business effectively. Filter your search based on criteria like budget and growth potential to streamline your options. Furthermore, consider engaging a business broker for expert guidance. Although online listings are essential, remember to check local newspapers for hidden opportunities. In the end, thorough research will improve your chances of successfully buying into an existing business as a partner or owner. Local Networking Opportunities Have you considered how local networking opportunities can improve your search for available businesses for sale? Engaging in industry conferences or local meetups can connect you with current owners and professionals, revealing hidden business sale opportunities. Local newspapers and industry publications often list businesses for sale, making them crucial resources for potential buyers. Furthermore, tapping into your personal networks—friends, family, and colleagues—might uncover businesses not publicly listed. Although business brokers can assist in guiding the acquisition process, online business-for-sale platforms like BizBuySell.com provide searchable databases that help you filter by location and price. Engaging Business Brokers Engaging a business broker can greatly streamline your search for available businesses for sale, especially if you’re looking for exclusive opportunities that mightn’t be publicly advertised. Business brokers can leverage their extensive networks and industry knowledge to help you in buying an established business. They provide access to business-for-sale listings and assist in business acquisition financing. When you engage a business broker, they can help you negotiate business purchases, ensuring that your interests are represented. Remember, selecting a business broker with a good reputation and experience in your specific industry is essential for finding a suitable business. Be aware that brokers typically charge a business sale commission ranging from 5% to 10%, depending on the transaction’s complexity. Understand the Reasons Behind the Sale When considering a business purchase, it’s essential to understand the seller’s motivations, as these can greatly influence your decision. Sellers often have various reasons for selling, such as retirement or health issues, which mightn’t showcase the business’s true condition. Common Seller Motivations Comprehending the common motivations behind a business sale is crucial for any prospective buyer, as these reasons often reflect the underlying health and potential of the business. Many sellers face financial difficulties, prompting roughly 30% to list their companies because of cash flow issues or mounting debts. Others might be influenced by personal circumstances, such as health problems or family commitments, with about 20% citing these as primary factors. Furthermore, burnout from operational demands can lead to a decision to sell, as nearly half of business owners feel overwhelmed. Retirement is another significant motivator, especially with 10,000 baby boomers exiting the workforce daily. Finally, market demand changes or industry trends can force owners to reflect on business shifts. Assessing Business Challenges How can you effectively assess the challenges a business faces before buying in? Start by investigating the reasons for the sale, as they often reveal underlying issues. Look for signs like declining sales and negative cash flow, which indicate operational challenges. Assess existing debts and liabilities to understand financial struggles. Gather customer insights to evaluate the business reputation and market demands. Determine if the current owner has a clear growth strategy or if they’re relying too much on personal relationships. Consider how market changes may have affected the business’s stability. Align Your Goals and Budget With Potential Businesses Aligning your goals and budget with potential businesses is crucial for making a successful investment. Start by clearly defining your personal and financial goals, confirming they match the type, size, and industry of the business you want. Next, assess your budget to determine a realistic price range, factoring in not just the purchase price but also additional costs for improvements and operational expenses. Research the financial health of prospective businesses, focusing on revenue, profit margins, and cash flow trends to guarantee they meet your expectations. Investigate the reasons behind the sale, as this can provide insights into challenges and growth potential. Utilize business-for-sale websites, engage with brokers, and leverage your network to find suitable businesses that align with your goals. Conduct Thorough Due Diligence After you’ve aligned your goals and budget with potential businesses, the next step involves conducting thorough due diligence. This process typically requires around 500 hours of review, covering legal, financial, operational, and reputational aspects. Using an extensive due diligence checklist is crucial, as it helps you analyze past financials and verify profitability. Collaborating with experienced professionals like attorneys and CPAs can likewise aid in evaluating the risk/return profile and uncovering hidden issues. Identify pending litigation that could impact the business. Look for undisclosed liabilities that may affect finances. Investigate operational challenges that could hinder growth. Confirm financial due diligence by reviewing tax returns and income streams. Being thorough now can save you from potential pitfalls later. Evaluate Business Valuation Approaches Comprehending the various methods of business valuation is essential for making informed investment decisions. You’ll typically encounter three primary approaches: the income approach, asset approach, and market approach. The income approach focuses on profit figures, often utilizing EBITDA to determine fair market value through a capitalization rate. The asset approach measures a business’s net asset value by subtracting total liabilities from total assets, making it ideal for asset-heavy companies. Meanwhile, the market approach assesses business worth based on recent sales of comparable businesses, employing industry-standard multiples that can range from 2x to 4x annual net profit. Always verify financial records, as discrepancies can greatly misrepresent the true value of the business you’re considering. Secure Financing and Close the Deal Securing financing is a critical step in the business acquisition process, as it directly impacts your ability to complete the deal and manage future operations. You can explore various options, like SBA loans, which offer up to 90% financing, or seller financing, allowing flexible payment structures. It’s crucial to understand your capital structure to handle operational costs post-acquisition. Draft a purchase agreement detailing transaction terms. Complete an asset acquisition statement (IRS Form 8594) for tax purposes. Confirm compliance with local bulk sale laws to avoid legal issues. Seek business finance advice to navigate the financing environment effectively. Frequently Asked Questions How to Buy a Business Step by Step? To buy a business, start by identifying your strengths and interests to guarantee the venture aligns with your goals. Research available businesses through online marketplaces and personal networks. Conduct thorough due diligence, reviewing financials and evaluating risks, which can take about 500 hours. Negotiate key terms and draft a purchase agreement. Finally, secure financing through options like SBA loans, and make certain all legal documents are prepared and compliant before finalizing the transaction. How Much Down Payment for a $500,000 Business Loan? For a $500,000 business loan, your down payment typically ranges from 10% to 30%. This means you’ll need between $50,000 and $150,000 upfront, depending on the lender’s criteria and your financial situation. If you opt for an SBA loan, expect a minimum down payment of 10% to 20%, translating to $50,000 to $100,000. Seller financing may offer lower down payments, sometimes under 10%, reducing your initial cash requirement to $50,000 or less. What Are the 7 Steps in Buying an Existing Business? To buy an existing business, you’ll follow seven vital steps. First, find opportunities that match your goals. Next, negotiate terms through a letter of intent. Third, conduct thorough due diligence, examining financials and legal matters. Then, document your agreement accurately. After that, secure financing through options like SBA loans or seller financing. Once you’ve acquired the business, focus on operations. Finally, plan your exit strategy to guarantee a smooth changeover in the future. Is $5000 Enough to Start a Business? Yes, $5,000 can be enough to start a business, particularly in service-oriented fields like consulting or freelancing. You’ll likely spend this capital on crucial expenses such as website development, marketing, and operational costs. Nevertheless, if your venture requires physical inventory or a storefront, you’ll probably need a larger budget. Success often depends on utilizing low-cost marketing strategies, like social media, to grow your business without significant upfront investments. Conclusion In conclusion, buying into a business requires careful planning and execution. Start by identifying your interests, researching available options, and comprehending the seller’s motivations. Align your financial capacity with potential businesses and conduct thorough due diligence to assess their value and operational health. Finally, secure financing and prepare for a smooth shift. By following these steps, you can make informed decisions that improve your chances of a successful acquisition and encourage future growth. Image via Google Gemini This article, "A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Into a Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The flight disruptions during the record government shutdown that ended last week inspired a rare act of bipartisanship in Washington on Tuesday, when congressional representatives from both parties introduced legislation that would allow air traffic controllers to get paid during future shutdowns. The bill proposes funding salaries, operating expenses, and other Federal Aviation Administration programs by tapping into a little-used fund with $2.6 billion that was created to reimburse airlines if the government commandeers their planes and they are damaged. The bill’s sponsors, which include four of the top Republicans and Democrats on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, hope that relying on the fund might make their bill more attractive than other proposals because it would limit the potential cost of doling out paychecks. U.S. Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri, the GOP chairman of the committee, said in a statement that the bill would help keep the traveling public safe during future shutdowns. The other sponsors include Democratic U.S. Reps. Rick Larsen of Washington and Andre Carson of Indiana, along with Republican U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas, who leads the aviation subcommittee. “We all saw that the system can be vulnerable when Congress can’t get its job done,” Graves said. “This bill guarantees that controllers, who have one of the most high-pressure jobs in the nation, will get paid during any future funding lapses and that air traffic control, aviation safety, and the traveling public will never again be negatively impacted by shutdowns.” The bill’s introduction comes ahead of a scheduled hearing Wednesday by a Senate subcommittee to examine the impacts of the 43-day shutdown on aviation. But it’s not clear whether this bill — or any similar proposals that have been floating around Congress since the 2019 shutdown — will have a chance to get approved before the next government funding deadline at the end of January. Nearly all the other proposals, including one from U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas, would rely on the aviation trust fund that collects money from fees the airlines pay, and the Congressional Budget Office has given those bills a much higher price tag. Fixes have been proposed, but none approved Over the years, lawmakers have tried a handful of fixes for a long-term solution to keep air traffic controllers and other essential aviation workers paid during funding lapses. The proposals often gained bipartisan attention, especially after the 35-day shutdown that ended in 2019 during President Donald The President’s first term, but none made it over the finish line. Moran’s bill, known as the Aviation Funding Stability Act, for example, is a recurring proposal in Congress that would allow the FAA to tap into the Airport and Airway Trust Fund. Lawmakers in both chambers have reintroduced versions of it over the years, including in 2019 and 2021. The legislation resurfaced in March when Moran, the Republican chairman of the Senate subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, put it forward. It came up again in September, weeks before the shutdown began, when Carson and U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, also a Democrat, introduced it in the House. The new bill introduced Tuesday would cut off the money if the insurance fund dips below $1 billion. But Transportation Committee staffers estimate that would still provide enough funding to keep FAA operating for four to six weeks. Air traffic controllers stretched thin during shutdown The issue gets so much attention because of all the flight delays and cancellations that happen during a shutdown as more air traffic controllers call out of work. The existing shortage of controllers is so severe that just a few absences in an airport tower or other FAA radar facilities can cause problems. The controllers — and the FAA technicians who maintain the equipment they rely on — are expected to continue working without pay during a shutdown to keep flights operating. But as the shutdown dragged on this fall, more controllers began calling out of work, citing the financial pressures and the need to take on side jobs. The delays got so bad during the latest shutdown that the government ordered airlines to cut some of their flights at 40 busy airports nationwide, in what the FAA said was an unprecedented but necessary move to relieve pressure on the system and controllers. Thousands of flights were canceled before the FAA lifted the order entirely and airlines were able to resume normal operations Monday. Why the insurance fund was created The fund that the bill introduced Tuesday would use was created years ago to pay for claims an airline might file if the government uses one of its planes for a military operation or other use. But that’s not common anymore. The last time a claim was made was after America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. The fund has continued to grow as it collects interest. For a time, it was also used for an insurance fund at a time when airlines were having trouble getting any insurance coverage after 9/11. For years, airlines paid into the fund regularly to get coverage from the government. But by the early 2010s, the insurance market for airlines had stabilized. Congress let the insurance program expire at the end of 2014. —Josh Funk and Rio Yamat, AP transportation and airlines writers View the full article

New York City’s incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, hasn’t taken office yet. But he’s already the new avatar of evil for conservative media figures. He’s been called “downright sinister” and “incompatible with America.” His labels include commie, Marxist, jihadist sympathizer and “seething leftist.” Fox News’ Laura Ingraham warned her viewers not to be fooled by “smiling socialists who rule like Soviet tyrants.” A New York Post post-election cover that depicted Mamdani holding aloft the Soviet Union’s hammer and sickle symbol sold out on newsstands by noon and was offered on e-Bay for $75. By the end of the day, the Post was selling baby onesies and commemorative plates emblazoned with the cover. Already, conservative outlets see Mamdani joining Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, and Hillary Clinton as someone guaranteed to make their audiences’ blood boil. And by doing so, they can help Republicans in the midterm elections. “It’s very clear that he’s going to be the No. 1 target of right-wing media for the foreseeable future, well into 2026,” said Howard Polskin, publisher of the Righting, a newsletter that follows conservative media. “He’s colorful, controversial and not afraid of a fight.” The new bogeyman for conservative media The head of an outlet that Polskin regularly monitors, the Daily Signal, said Mamdani is likely seen as a threat because his appeal to working-class Americans who feel left behind by the economy is similar to that of President Donald The President, although they have different ideas about how to handle that. “Remember years ago there was Nancy Pelosi who was the bogeyman for Republicans,” said Rob Bluey, president and executive editor of the Daily Signal. “I think Mamdani is probably going to be the new person. I think that’s why you see a lot of emphasis on him in conservative media.” In the Washington Examiner, editor-in-chief Hugo Gurdon saw ominous signs in Mamdani’s election night victory speech. “He was downright sinister, glorying not just in his achievement but in having laid low his vanquished enemies and stuck it to others besides. He took off his smiling campaign mask and revealed his venomous self,” Gurdon wrote. Newsmax’s Rob Schmitt called Mamdani the “mayor for the foreign-born. We have flooded the country with diversity, and diversity delivered us Zohran.” In an interview, Schmitt said he wasn’t quite ready to anoint Mamdani as a deliberate target for the conservative media. “A go-to bogeyman makes it sound like it’s manufactured,” he told The Associated Press, “whereas we are just appropriately concerned about people that are spewing or trying to push an ideology that is destined to not work.” The Post recognized Mamdani as a target of interest well before the election. Between Oct. 27 and Nov. 5, he was the subject of seven of the tabloid’s covers. One, headlined “Mam-Child,” depicted Mamdani in a little boy’s overalls to illustrate a column warning that the city wasn’t a toy to hand to a “baby like Zohran.” Another front page blared “Not Zo Fast” to herald a tightening race in the polls. Election Day’s lead headline was “The President to New York: Keep the Commie Out.” Mamdani reached out to the White House post-election for a meeting with The President and the president said Sunday that “we’ll work something out.” A socialist or a communist? Mamdani’s status as a member of the Democratic Socialists of America and his Muslim background are behind many of the conservative media attacks. Asked on NBC’s “Meet the Press” this spring whether he was a communist, Mamdani said, “No, I am not.” Webster’s defines socialism as a political theory where the community or government owns and controls the production and distribution of goods. Communism, advanced by revolutionary Karl Marx, is considered a step beyond, where private property and capitalism no longer exist. Many of Mamdani’s critics make no distinction. “Commie takeover in the Big Apple,” one Fox News onscreen headline read. “They elected a communist,” World Net Daily wrote. “Communist, not socialist,” The President said in a “60 Minutes” interview last month. “Communist. He’s far worse than a socialist.” Some Jewish groups have expressed skepticism about Mamdani, who has supported Palestinian rights and criticized Israel’s attack in Gaza as genocide. But he has denounced Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and said he will work to combat antisemitism. Republicans have a clear interest in seeing more American Jews — traditionally a group that leans toward Democrats — switch over. But that doesn’t account for some of the hostility seen in the media. The National Review said Mamdani’s win meant “it’s open season on New York Jews.” Megyn Kelly said the tenets of Islam are inconsistent with American values and Muslims should not be elected mayors or governors. Podcaster Michael Savage called him a “Marxist jihadist sympathizer.” Influencer Laura Loomer predicted Mamdani would encourage Muslims to commit political assassinations to acquire power and silence critics. Mamdani’s staff did not return messages from The Associated Press. In the waning days of his campaign, he spoke out against some of the religious-based attacks on him. “I thought that if I behaved well enough or bit my tongue enough in the face or racist, baseless attacks all while returning back to my central message, it would allow me to be more than just my faith,” he said. “I was wrong. No amount of redirection is ever enough.” Making Mamdani the leader of his party in consumers’ eyes Some of the attacks reflect a common theme in politics and the media — not unique to Mamdani — to associate all members of a political party with the beliefs of one who could be depicted as on the fringe. The Daily Signal wrote after his election that Mamdani “is now the putative leader of his party.” The Victory Girls conservative blog used an illustration of the incoming mayor in a military uniform. “The socialists are coming, and Mamdani is just the beginning,” the blog wrote. “If we ignore them, we will all be in big trouble.” “He’s the new AOC in the sense that they have found someone who is relatively unknown that they get to define and hold up as the example of what it means to be a Democrat,” said Angelo Carusone, president of the liberal media watchdog Media Matters for America. Carusone said he’s not sure if Mamdani will become a villain of the conservative media on the level of a Clinton or Pelosi, but he can understand the urgency. “If you don’t check him now,” Carusone said, “he’s going to capture the young people.” —David Bauder, AP media writer View the full article

As the landscape of remote work continues to evolve, Slack has unveiled a series of updates designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflows for businesses of all sizes. With nearly 20 new features highlighted in their recent press release, Slack aims to transform how teams interact and manage tasks, providing small business owners with tools that could lead to substantial efficiency gains. The latest improvements center around turbocharging user experience, enabling businesses to work smarter, not just faster. One standout feature is the real-time recap function. This tool allows users to refresh their messages easily, eliminating the hassle of sifting through multiple threads. By filtering out already-read messages and providing up-to-the-minute context, it helps teams stay agile and informed—a crucial aspect for small businesses managing tight schedules. “Think of this feature drop as giving your workday a turbo-boost and a deep clean,” Slack emphasizes, indicative of their commitment to user experience and productivity. Another key update involves integrating artificial intelligence with the platform. The inclusion of instant AI summaries for unread messages makes it easier for users to catch up on important information without feeling overwhelmed. For small business owners who may find themselves juggling multiple projects, these summaries streamline decision-making processes, enabling quicker actions on pressing issues. In terms of workflow automation, the introduction of new Salesforce Flow actions allows for deeper integration between Slack and Salesforce. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely heavily on customer relationship management. The ability to create Salesforce channels directly within Slack, alongside support for conditional branching in Workflow Builder, introduces powerful automation possibilities. Small businesses can now set up more complex workflows without needing extensive coding knowledge, streamlining operations further. “A streamlined workspace designed to eliminate friction and reduce noise” is another hallmark of this update, as Slack looks to enhance user experience. The new mobile redesign embraces Apple’s innovative Liquid Glass design, making the app feel more modern and intuitive. This is significant for small business owners who often use their mobile devices to stay connected when on the go. Enhancements like the self-cleaning sidebar help in maintaining an organized channel view by removing inactive conversations. This automatic tidying of workspace contributes to a smoother workflow, allowing teams to focus on current projects rather than being bogged down by clutter. However, while these updates present exciting opportunities, small business owners should approach them with an understanding of potential challenges. For instance, integrating new features effectively requires time and training. Teams might need to adapt their habits to fully leverage tools like the enhanced Workflow Builder—which, despite being user-friendly, still requires some learning. Moreover, the additional functionalities come at a cost. Features like real-time recaps, AI summaries, and advanced automation features are only available on higher-tier plans. Small business owners must assess whether the investment in upgraded plans aligns with their current operational needs. Key takeaways from Slack’s recent feature drop include: Real-time Recaps: Quickly catch up on messages and stay informed with minimal effort. AI Summaries: Gain immediate context from unread messages, speeding up decision-making processes. Salesforce Integration: Enhanced features facilitate smoother communication between Salesforce and Slack, allowing for robust automation. Mobile Redesign: A modern user interface improves the mobile experience, crucial for on-the-go professionals. Slack’s focus on making collaboration smarter emphasizes the platform’s adaptability for today’s changing work environments. As small business owners consider integrating these new tools, they have the potential to revolutionize communication, streamline workflows, and enhance overall productivity. To delve deeper into these features and explore how they can benefit your business, visit the original announcement at Slack Blog. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Slack Launches Major Feature Drop to Supercharge Team Productivity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As the landscape of remote work continues to evolve, Slack has unveiled a series of updates designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflows for businesses of all sizes. With nearly 20 new features highlighted in their recent press release, Slack aims to transform how teams interact and manage tasks, providing small business owners with tools that could lead to substantial efficiency gains. The latest improvements center around turbocharging user experience, enabling businesses to work smarter, not just faster. One standout feature is the real-time recap function. This tool allows users to refresh their messages easily, eliminating the hassle of sifting through multiple threads. By filtering out already-read messages and providing up-to-the-minute context, it helps teams stay agile and informed—a crucial aspect for small businesses managing tight schedules. “Think of this feature drop as giving your workday a turbo-boost and a deep clean,” Slack emphasizes, indicative of their commitment to user experience and productivity. Another key update involves integrating artificial intelligence with the platform. The inclusion of instant AI summaries for unread messages makes it easier for users to catch up on important information without feeling overwhelmed. For small business owners who may find themselves juggling multiple projects, these summaries streamline decision-making processes, enabling quicker actions on pressing issues. In terms of workflow automation, the introduction of new Salesforce Flow actions allows for deeper integration between Slack and Salesforce. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely heavily on customer relationship management. The ability to create Salesforce channels directly within Slack, alongside support for conditional branching in Workflow Builder, introduces powerful automation possibilities. Small businesses can now set up more complex workflows without needing extensive coding knowledge, streamlining operations further. “A streamlined workspace designed to eliminate friction and reduce noise” is another hallmark of this update, as Slack looks to enhance user experience. The new mobile redesign embraces Apple’s innovative Liquid Glass design, making the app feel more modern and intuitive. This is significant for small business owners who often use their mobile devices to stay connected when on the go. Enhancements like the self-cleaning sidebar help in maintaining an organized channel view by removing inactive conversations. This automatic tidying of workspace contributes to a smoother workflow, allowing teams to focus on current projects rather than being bogged down by clutter. However, while these updates present exciting opportunities, small business owners should approach them with an understanding of potential challenges. For instance, integrating new features effectively requires time and training. Teams might need to adapt their habits to fully leverage tools like the enhanced Workflow Builder—which, despite being user-friendly, still requires some learning. Moreover, the additional functionalities come at a cost. Features like real-time recaps, AI summaries, and advanced automation features are only available on higher-tier plans. Small business owners must assess whether the investment in upgraded plans aligns with their current operational needs. Key takeaways from Slack’s recent feature drop include: Real-time Recaps: Quickly catch up on messages and stay informed with minimal effort. AI Summaries: Gain immediate context from unread messages, speeding up decision-making processes. Salesforce Integration: Enhanced features facilitate smoother communication between Salesforce and Slack, allowing for robust automation. Mobile Redesign: A modern user interface improves the mobile experience, crucial for on-the-go professionals. Slack’s focus on making collaboration smarter emphasizes the platform’s adaptability for today’s changing work environments. As small business owners consider integrating these new tools, they have the potential to revolutionize communication, streamline workflows, and enhance overall productivity. To delve deeper into these features and explore how they can benefit your business, visit the original announcement at Slack Blog. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Slack Launches Major Feature Drop to Supercharge Team Productivity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Move by Clive Lewis reflects increasing discontent with prime minister’s leadershipView the full article

The deduction's previous cap of $10K jumps to $2.5M. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

The deduction's previous cap of $10K jumps to $2.5M. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

To me, the under-desk treadmill is the ultimate symbol of productivity culture (read: late-stage capitalism). And I'm exactly the type to buy into the under-desk treadmill appeal. Why shouldn't I want to walk while I work, burn calories during calls, and transform my sedentary office prisons into a wellness wonderland—all without sacrificing a single billable hour? (Never mind that I don't work in an office or bill my hours.) Office fitness is the perfect hack for our optimization-obsessed culture, promising that we can have it all: career success and physical health, no trade-offs required. But when I see an under-desk treadmill, I also remember when we all swore that replacing our desk chairs with yoga balls would change our lives. Or that a standing desk, or a balance board, or some kind of pedaling contraption would do the same. In other words, nothing ever changes. I'm not denying that there's a problem with fully sedentary work days; it's just that no one gadget ever seems to be the solution. And the problem isn't that we lack willpower or that the products are inherently flawed. The problem is that we're buying solutions to the wrong problem. The allure of multitasking your way to healthI'm not immune to the fantasy either. When you're drowning in deadlines and meetings bleed into evenings, the idea that you could somehow merge your workout with your workday feels like a lifeline. Why carve out an hour for the gym when you could just walk while answering emails? It's efficient! It's smart! It's...probably not going to work the way you hope. "I think these products can and do work for some people, but there's an important caveat: there's no replacement for actually getting away from your desk for a mental and physical break," says Jen Fisher, formerly the chief wellbeing officer at Deloitte. "There's a real irony here—these products aim to solve one problem (sedentary behavior) but reinforce another (never truly disconnecting from work)." Therein lies the paradox: We're trying to optimize ourselves into working more, not better. An under-desk treadmill might give you movement, sure, but it keeps you tethered to your screen, always available, always productive. You might think that if anyone could make office fitness gadgets work, it would be Google—a company famous for its wellness perks and campus amenities. But even there, this pattern persists. "I love the treadmill desks that we have available whenever I've used them," says Shosh Brodman, a senior Google Workspace program manager with over 13 years at the company. "But I think I've used it maybe less than five times." Brodman's experience with an under-desk pedaling device was similar: initial excitement followed by abandonment. She says that despite access to gyms, treadmill desks, and a culture that supports movement, the fundamental problem remains: the structure of modern work doesn't actually allow for these interventions. The one thing that did work for her? Step-tracking contests that encouraged actual breaks and movement, creating social motivation to escape the desk entirely. Compared to an under-desk treadmill, a real lunch walk gives you something far more valuable: a little mental space, entirely separate from work. Fitness gadgets become another source of anxietyThe fitness gadget industrial complex has convinced us that the path to wellness is paved with data, tracking, and technology. But for many people, these tools become yet another thing to feel bad about. "When it specifically comes to products that people use to mitigate their sedentary lifestyle, gadgets are never the answer," says Melissa Painter, founder of Breakthru, an app that guides users through two-minute movement breaks. "Especially not gadgets that cause us inadvertently to outsource our body's intelligence to a piece of tech. The minute we're staring at data in the face of what we've 'done wrong,' the more likely we're going to put it in a drawer and step away." This points to a pattern many of us recognize: the sleep tracker that made us more anxious about sleep, the step counter that turned movement into a guilt-inducing scorecard. Tools are only useful if they nudge us toward feeling better, rather than becoming another metric of inadequacy. The absurdity becomes clear when we consider what actually helps us think and solve problems. "The reason going for a walk helps you solve a problem is because you're moving and untethered," Painter says. "The space and time away from your screen is an invitation for your mind to wander just enough so that instinctual solutions can emerge. Walking on a treadmill is not going to have the same impact. It's like trying to do the wrong kinds of thinking at once." Breaking free from productivity cultureHere's what makes our gadget obsession even more frustrating: We already know what works, but we just don't want to hear it, because it requires actually stepping away from work. "It's very American to think we don't need breaks," Painter says. Trapped in non-stop productivity culture, we fall prey to this idea that "wellness" requires an enormous amount of time and money. We live in a culture that treats rest as laziness and breaks as luxuries. Fisher says that the type of work matters: "For passive tasks—listening to a meeting, reading documents—these tools might genuinely help. But I worry about the cultural message when we're optimizing to work more rather than building in real breaks that actually support our wellbeing." If these gadgets work in addition to actual breaks, great. But if you're thinking "now I can skip my lunch walk because I have a treadmill desk," that's where we've gone wrong. Fitness gadgets around the office allow us to maintain this idea that we can always be productive without any downtime. As if our bodies are just machines that need the right accessories to run indefinitely. We'd rather invest in expensive gadgets that let us keep working than accept that you might need to actually stop and rest. As a result, most of us end the workday feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, nowhere near the end of our to-do lists, and nowhere close to wanting to go to the gym. The problem isn't the under-desk treadmill itself, but the slippery slope of non-stop-optimization it represents. So, what's the solution? How to actually prioritize your wellness at workThe irony is that the effective solutions are free and simple—they just require us to challenge the "always on" culture we've normalized. What people need instead are genuinely brief interventions that help them feel better and reconnect with their bodies. Getting up to see the sun. Watering a plant. Taking a walking meeting. These aren't fancy, and they don't require a $1,200 piece of equipment, but they do require something that feels even more expensive in our work culture: permission to stop working, even briefly. There's no need to swear off all office fitness products. Standing desks with decent ergonomics have real value for shifting body position throughout the day. If you genuinely use that balance board or under-desk elliptical regularly for passive tasks, and it's in addition to real breaks, keep at it. But for most of us, the better investment isn't another gadget—it's the harder work of time management and cultural change: Set actual boundaries around breaks. Block time for a real lunch away from your desk. Schedule walking meetings. Stand up and stretch between Zoom calls. These sound obvious because they are, but we skip them because we've internalized the message that real breaks are indulgent. Question the productivity narrative. Just like your doctor has been telling you for years: more movement throughout your day, across your lifetime, improves thinking, mood, focus, and attention span. If you still want to think in terms of productivity, consider that taking breaks isn't sacrificing productivity, but actually promoting it. Start absurdly small. You don't need a $1,500 treadmill desk. You need to get up once an hour and walk to the window. Water a plant, step outside for a coffee, or try to touch your toes. The bottom lineThe fitness gadget industry thrives on our desire to optimize, to find the one weird trick that lets us have it all. But the actual hack is much less sexy: we need to accept that human bodies require breaks, that our brains need space to wander, and that no piece of equipment will let us cheat these fundamental needs. The treadmill desk isn't evil. It's just a symptom of our broader refusal to accept that rest is productive, and that being fully present for our work sometimes means being fully absent from our screens. So before you click "buy" on that under-desk elliptical, ask yourself: Am I solving my sedentariness problem, or am I buying permission to never truly step away from work? Because if it's the latter, you already know where it's going to end up—right next to that dusty yoga ball in the corner. View the full article

Automation has shaped PPC for decades, and the landscape keeps shifting. I’ve seen that evolution firsthand, from helping build the first AdWords Editor to developing early Google Ads scripts and writing about automation layering. Now we’re entering another major transition. As AI changes how we search and get answers, it’s also transforming how automation itself gets built. And this time, the momentum isn’t coming from ad platforms like Google – it’s coming from AI companies like OpenAI. Until recently, AI mostly helped with human language tasks like writing ad copy, summaries, or reports. But the latest generation of LLMs can increasingly generate computer language too, including the software and workflows that streamline how we work. At OpenAI’s DevDay in San Francisco, the company introduced AgentKit, a new way to build AI that can take action. It marks the start of a phase where the automation mindset that powered PPC optimization can extend far beyond campaigns and into entire workflows. Imagine if AI could handle your everyday busywork Picture this: A client sends a CSV with weekly results, and before you’ve even opened the email, the file is saved to the right folder and added to your dashboard. A client asks for a meeting – AI checks your calendar, drafts an agenda, and schedules it. You start writing new ad copy with AI, and the system automatically pulls your brand guidelines and checks for tone and compliance. This is all possible today, and you don’t need an engineering degree to make it happen. If you can define how your work is broken down into distinct tasks, you can create an agent that does those steps for you. Dig deeper: 4 ways to connect your ads data to generative AI for smarter PPC What agents really are An AI agent is a smart helper that can figure out what needs to happen and then take action using connected tools. Software has historically been built around deterministic steps. If X, do Y, else do Z. It’s predictable, but inflexible. And it requires humans to define every possible scenario that should be covered, which makes writing a helpful program time-consuming and difficult. But just like an LLM is flexible in how it answers your questions, it can use that flexibility to automatically figure out a reasonable next step to complete a task. Instead of replying with text, agents can reason through steps, call APIs, and perform tasks. I’ve explained early versions of this before: You ask ChatGPT for restaurant ideas while planning a trip. It suggests a few places. It then uses an app like Resy to book the reservation. That’s what an agent does: it can understand your intent and take a real-world step. This concept builds on earlier OpenAI features, such as GPT Actions and function calling, which gave models controlled access to outside data. Agents are the next evolution – they combine reasoning with execution, meaning they can plan and act in the same flow. Now, think about that in PPC terms. An agent could pull campaign data, summarize results, and even reference brand or policy docs before generating compliant creative. That’s a big step up from traditional “AI writing assistants.” Dig deeper: AI agents in PPC: What to know and build today From coding projects to five-minute builds AI agents aren’t a new idea. Many marketers, myself included, have experimented with them for more than a year, but it used to take a lot of technical work. About a year and a half ago, I built an agent based on the two books I’d written that could answer questions in my tone and reference my ideas. I used LangChain, one of the first frameworks for connecting large language models to data and tools. It worked, but it wasn’t quick. I had to learn vector databases, RAG, and several other moving parts to get it working – not something most PPC pros want to tackle on a Monday morning. Since then, several companies have made it easier to build agents like these, and some even feature them with a digital clone of a person, such as HeyGen. But when OpenAI introduces a way to create agents, I pay attention – and that’s what they did with AgentKit. It brings a visual interface for building agents directly on the platform of the most used chatbot. What used to take hours or days of development can now be done in minutes, and you don’t need to know how to code. AgentKit: ‘Zapier for AI’ AgentKit is OpenAI’s new toolkit for creating agents that can connect to tools and take actions through those tools. It’s a visual builder where you link services like Gmail, Dropbox, or Slack, and describe what the agent should do using tools you already use every day. If you’ve ever used Zapier, n8n, Make, or Rule Engine, the concept will feel familiar: you connect blocks in sequences that represent what you want to happen. But because a flexible AI model sits at the core of these flows, AgentKit is different – it can use reasoning instead of rigid rules. If that sounds scary, you can add a simple human-in-the-loop approval step to any flow. Instead of “If X happens, do Y,” you can say, “If a client sends a campaign report, summarize it and save it to the right folder.” The AI figures out how to do that by making reasonable requests that help it understand what you mean by vague instructions like “the right folder.” For PPC marketers, this opens the door to automating work around campaigns (think reporting, documentation, and creative preparation), without waiting for a platform feature or a developer. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. The unsung hero: Model Context Protocol (MCP) Under the hood, much of the power that enables agents to take action comes from the Model Context Protocol, or MCP. It’s not brand-new, but it’s the key piece that makes all of this work. MCPs are the connectors that let agents talk to your tools or data in a structured way. If you think of APIs as the connectors of the web, MCPs are similar, but built as a standard that any LLM can use. Some are built by OpenAI, like the connectors for Dropbox or Gmail. Others come from third-party developers, like Box. And you can create your own to connect private data or internal systems. You can think of it this way: MCPs are the plumbing. AgentKit is the faucet. The plumbing defines what data can flow where. The faucet is how you turn that into something usable. Without MCPs, an agent would be like a brilliant intern with no logins to any of the systems they need. With them, the agent can safely use your data and tools with clear permissions. Dig deeper: How Model Context Protocol is shaping the future of AI and search marketing MCPs in plain terms If this still sounds abstract, think of an MCP as a menu of what an AI can do inside a given flow. For example, the Google Ads MCP currently includes actions like: Search for entities. List connected customers. That’s it for now. It can read data, but it can’t change bids or create ads yet. That limitation is a good illustration that MCPs don’t open the door to entire systems for an LLM to go wild. Instead, they provide a defined set of capabilities created by the MCP developer. It’s an important guardrail. And even with MCPs that offer broader capabilities, you still control exactly which actions your agent can access when you integrate them into a flow. Even in this early state, it’s a clear preview of how AI might eventually interact with Google Ads data through well-defined, secure interfaces. Example: A ‘brand-safe ad assistant’ Here’s what this looks like in practice. Imagine you want an AI assistant that writes Google Ads while automatically following your brand voice and legal disclaimers. In AgentKit, you could create an agent with two connected tools: Dropbox, where your brand guidelines live. A vector store with your agency’s tone and policy docs. You could then ask the agent to “write new RSA headlines for our fall campaign using our style and disclaimers,” and it would connect with the right data to complete the task. Behind the scenes, it reads the files, extracts the rules, and generates compliant ad copy. You still approve the final version, but the prep work is automated. It may sound simple, especially since you can already do this with a custom GPT, but it shows how these building blocks can be expanded. For example, you could integrate an MCP for your email platform and have the agent send a client an approval request for the creatives it generated. Connecting data sources in AgentKit Here are the steps to create an agent connected to the two data sources mentioned above. In Agent Builder, click the + icon next to Tools to give your agent a new capability, such as connecting it to an MCP. Choose an existing MCP, like the ones shown here, or connect a custom MCP by clicking + Server. You can also add a file search capability and select the files to include directly in the pop-up dialog. Now you can interact with the agent to see how it uses its new abilities to produce better answers and, where enabled, how it uses other tools to take actions. Dig deeper: How to get smarter with AI in PPC Why this shift matters for PPC If you’ve been in PPC for a while, you’ve seen this script before. We went from manual optimizations, to automated rules, to scripts, to automation layering – and each wave changed the skill set needed to stay ahead. Agents are the next wave. Instead of writing scripts or building workflows with APIs, we’ll soon describe them in plain English and let AI generate the logic. That amplifies what marketers can do. The core skills stay the same – strategy, measurement, and judgment – but the way we build automation is about to get much faster, more flexible, and far more accessible. What these early agent tools reveal about what’s coming The current tools for building AI agents are still early. Setting up an MCP takes some configuration, and the Google Ads connector is limited to reading data. But the potential is clear: AI will move beyond generating text to running workflows, checking rules, and getting work done. If you want to stay ahead of this shift, start small. Experiment with simple automations that connect your email, files, or reports. Learn what agents can and can’t do yet. Just as marketers who adopted scripts early will be the ones setting the standard later, those who learn this now will be the ones setting the standard later. Dig deeper: Agentic PPC: What performance marketing could look like in 2030 View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today, through the eyes of the Search Engine Roundtable and other search forums on the web. Google released Gemini 3 and it is now powering Google Search's AI Mode...View the full article

In today’s hyper-competitive B2B landscape, marketing leaders face a paradox: The pace of change is relentless, yet the need for clarity and purpose has never been greater. With artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping every facet of business, the imperative is not just to keep up but to lead the charge. To navigate this complexity, we must lead with vision and innovate with intent—focusing our efforts, aligning teams, and making decisions that drive the business forward. Below is a no-nonsense framework for CMOs to fulfill our mandate of not just keeping up with the market but shaping what comes next. VISION IS THE STRATEGIC COMPASS Vision is more than a lofty statement on a corporate website. It’s a strategic compass that sets a clear direction for decision-making, inspires bold thinking, and aligns marketing with broader business transformation goals. AI is not just a technology trend—it’s a strategic lens through which visionary CMOs anticipate market shifts, personalize at scale, and create new sources of value. Vision encourages us to look beyond quarterly targets and toward long-term value creation. It’s not just about where we’re going, but why our destination matters. Peter Drucker’s insight that “the best way to predict the future is to create it” reminds us that visionary marketers don’t wait for trends to unfold. They shape them—often by harnessing AI’s predictive and generative power. Consider Microsoft’s transformation under the leadership of CEO Satya Nadella. By repositioning itself as a cloud-first, AI-forward enterprise leader, Microsoft’s market cap soared from ~$300 billion in 2014 to over $3 trillion by 2024. Unified branding, thought leadership, and marketing aligned with product vision—and a bold embrace of AI—were instrumental in this journey. The lesson is clear: A rebrand aligned with long-term strategy and market trends, especially those driven by AI, can unlock massive shareholder value. INNOVATION IS THE DIFFERENTIATION ENGINE In saturated markets, differentiation is survival. Innovation allows us to stand out, not just in what we offer, but in how we engage, deliver, and evolve. AI-driven insights empower marketers to test, learn, and iterate at unprecedented speed, turning data into differentiated experiences that set brands apart. Whether through product, experience, or brand voice, marketers must respond to evolving customer needs and emerging technologies. The challenge is to build a unique voice, foster a culture of innovation, and lead with empathy and agility, even while navigating internal barriers like silos and legacy systems. Steve Jobs captured this imperative when he said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” For marketing leaders, innovation—now supercharged by AI—is the engine that powers strategic impact. Apple’s journey from the dot-com bust to unprecedented growth is a testament to visionary leadership and relentless innovation. Strategic repositioning built a premium brand and loyal customer base. The transformation wasn’t just about technology. It was about storytelling, experience, and strategic marketing, now increasingly powered by AI-driven personalization and creative tools. When marketing aligns with product innovation, long-term strategy, and the intelligent application of AI, it can redefine industries and drive valuation from billions to trillions. VISION MEETS INNOVATION At onsemi, our own transformation showcases how aligning vision and innovation can redefine a brand. Once known primarily as a reliable supplier, onsemi has emerged as a high-value technology leader in intelligent power and sensing. Under CEO Hassane El-Khoury, our identity evolved from traditional, engineering-focused to forward-looking, innovation-driven. Marketing played a pivotal role in translating the strategic vision into measurable results. Marketing leaders operationalize and bring vision and innovation to life with a strategic framework that tightly aligns marketing with business goals. Today, they must put AI at the center of every pillar. The backbone of a modern AI-centered marketing engine includes these eight fundamentals: Brand purpose and positioning: AI-powered sentiment analysis and competitive intelligence inform meaningful, consistent messaging. Market and audience intelligence: AI enables dynamic segmentation, lookalike modeling, and predictive analytics for personalization at scale. AI-powered demand generation: Generative AI creates dynamic content, while predictive models fuel pipeline growth through targeted outreach. Optimized digital experiences and customer intelligence platforms: AI-driven personalization engines and recommendation systems ensure every interaction is seamless and insight-rich. Unified messaging architecture: AI helps keep the story coherent across channels, adapting in real time to audience feedback. Innovative tactics: Agile marketing models, strategic AI personalization, and customer journey mapping empower teams to iterate quickly and adapt to change. Customer experience: A relentless focus on customer experience transforms every touchpoint into a strategic advantage. AI tools can anticipate needs and deliver value before customers even ask. Cross-functional collaboration: Marketing collaborating with sales, product engineering, and corporate strategy ensures that marketing is at the table, shaping the future rather than just communicating it. Taken together, these elements create a marketing engine that drives growth, relevance, and long-term impact. LEAD WITH VISION, EXECUTE WITH INNOVATION, DELIVER WITH IMPACT—POWERED BY AI If there’s one takeaway for marketing executives, it’s this: Lead with vision, execute with innovation, and deliver with impact. Vision inspires teams and aligns stakeholders. Innovation—now inseparable from AI—keeps us relevant and unlocks differentiated value. Impact is measured not just in impressions and engagement, but in pipeline, revenue, and strategic growth. When we connect vision to execution, harness the power of AI, and measure our impact, we elevate marketing from a function to a force. The future belongs to those who shape it. Let’s continue to lead with clarity, execute with creativity, and deliver with purpose—embracing AI as a core leadership competency for the next era of marketing. Felicity Carson is chief marketing officer at onsemi. View the full article

A Gustav Klimt portrait painting that helped save the life of its Jewish subject during the Holocaust sold Tuesday for $236.4 million, a record for a modern art piece. Klimt’s “Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer” sold after a 20-minute bidding war at Sotheby’s in New York, where the flashiest item of the night was a solid gold, fully functioning toilet that went for $12.1 million. The 6-foot-tall (1.8-meter-tall) portrait, painted over three years between 1914 and 1916, depicts the daughter of one of Vienna’s wealthiest families adorned in an East Asian emperor’s cloak. It is one of two full-length portraits by the Austrian artist that remain privately owned. The work was kept separate from other Klimt paintings that burned in a fire at an Austrian castle. The colorful painting depicts the Lederer family’s life of luxury before Nazi Germany annexed Austria in 1938. Nazis looted the Lederer art collection, leaving only the family portraits, which were considered “too Jewish” to be worth stealing, according to the National Gallery of Canada, where the painting was previously on loan. In an attempt to save herself, Elisabeth Lederer made up a story that Klimt, who was not Jewish and died in 1918, was her father. It helped that the artist spent years working meticulously on her portrait. With help from her former brother-in-law, a high-ranking Nazi official, she convinced the Nazis to give her a document stating that she descended from Klimt. That allowed her to remain safely in Vienna until she died of an illness in 1944. The portrait was part of the collection of billionaire Leonard A. Lauder, heir to cosmetics giant The Estée Lauder Companies. He died this year at 92, leaving behind an impressive collection worth more than $400 million. Sotheby’s declined to share the identity of the portrait’s buyer. The sale topped a previous record for 20th-century art set by an Andy Warhol portrait of Marilyn Monroe, which sold for $195 million in 2022. Five Klimt pieces from Lauder’s collection sold at the auction for a total of $392 million, Sotheby’s said. Pieces by Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse and Edvard Munch were among other notable sales. Later in the evening, an 18-karat-gold toilet by Maurizio Cattelan — the provocative Italian artist known for taping a banana to a wall — hit the auction block. Cattelan has said the 223-pound (101-kilogram) piece, titled “America,” satirizes superwealth. “Whatever you eat, a $200 lunch or a $2 hot dog, the results are the same, toilet-wise,” he once said. The toilet, owned by an unnamed collector, was one of two that Cattelan created in 2016. The other was displayed in 2016 at New York’s Guggenheim Museum, which pointedly offered to lend it to U.S. President Donald The President when he asked to borrow a Van Gogh painting. Then the piece was stolen while on display in England at Blenheim Palace, the country manor where Winston Churchill was born. Two men were convicted in the toilet heist, but it’s unclear what they did with the loo. Investigators aren’t privy to its whereabouts but believe it was likely broken up and melted down. “America” was exhibited at Sotheby’s New York headquarters in the weeks leading up to the auction. Sotheby’s called the commode an “incisive commentary on the collision of artistic production and commodity value.” —Hannah Schoenbaum, Associated Press View the full article

Adobe is buying Semrush in a $1.9 billion all-cash deal and adding the platform to Adobe Experience Cloud and its AI marketing stack. The post Adobe To Acquire Semrush In $1.9 Billion Cash Deal appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article