ResidentialBusiness

Two government-sponsored enterprises are looking into expanding mortgage transfers between borrowers, according to the head of their oversight agency. View the full article

When you’re looking to purchase craft supplies online, several retailers stand out for their extensive offerings and unique features. Amazon is known for its vast selection and prompt shipping, whereas Michaels frequently provides seasonal items and discounts. Joann specializes in fabric, and Hobby Lobby features a wide array of materials with regular sales. Etsy connects you with handmade supplies from small businesses. Other notable options include Blick Art Materials and Walmart. Each store has its strengths, making your choice important for your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Amazon offers a vast selection of craft supplies with fast shipping options for Prime members and competitive pricing. Michaels features an extensive inventory for all crafters, frequent sales, and a loyalty program for exclusive rewards. Joann specializes in fabrics and sewing supplies, providing coupons, project ideas, and crafting events for skill enhancement. Hobby Lobby provides a wide variety of materials and seasonal items, along with weekly sales and a clearance section for bargains. Etsy is a marketplace for unique, handmade supplies, supporting small businesses and offering customizable and vintage items. Amazon When you’re searching for craft supplies online, Amazon stands out as a top choice due to its extensive selection and user-friendly features. You can find everything from basic materials to specialized items, making it easy to create your arts and crafts supplies list. Prime members benefit from fast shipping options, ensuring you get your supplies quickly when inspiration strikes. The competitive pricing helps you stay within budget, and customer reviews offer valuable insights, guiding you on where to buy craft supplies effectively. If something doesn’t meet your expectations, Amazon’s easy return policy allows for hassle-free returns. This combination of factors makes Amazon one of the best craft stores that deliver right to your door. Michaels Michaels is a leading destination for craft supplies, offering an extensive inventory that caters to all types of crafters. You’ll find everything from seasonal items to fabrics, making it a convenient one-stop shop for art and craft items. The store frequently runs sales and discounts, allowing you to save considerably on popular products. Plus, their loyalty program rewards you with exclusive offers, enhancing your shopping experience. If you’re searching for craft stuffing near me, Michaels provides an online shopping feature with convenient store pickup options, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, Michaels hosts various classes and workshops, helping crafters of all skill levels develop their talents and learn new techniques. Joann Joann stands out as a premier destination for crafters and sewing enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of fabrics and sewing supplies that cater to a wide range of projects. You’ll find everything from cottons to specialty fabrics, ensuring you have the right materials for your creations. Joann frequently provides coupons and promotions, allowing you to save considerably on your purchases. Their user-friendly website also features project ideas and inspiration, making it easy to discover new endeavors. In addition, Joann hosts crafting events and workshops, helping you develop your skills as you connect with fellow crafters. Consider joining their membership program for exclusive offers and discounts, enhancing your shopping experience and making your crafting expedition even more enjoyable. Hobby Lobby Hobby Lobby serves as a thorough resource for crafting enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of materials and home décor items that cater to diverse creative needs. You’ll find everything from fabric and yarn to paints and wood crafts. Take advantage of their weekly sales on different categories, which can lead to significant savings on your purchases. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby features a broad selection of seasonal items, making it an ideal destination for holiday crafting supplies. If you prefer in-store shopping, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see and feel products before buying. For those shopping online, their clearance section is perfect for bargain hunters looking to score great deals on craft supplies without breaking the bank. Etsy Etsy stands out as a premier online marketplace that specializes in unique and handmade craft supplies, making it a go-to platform for those seeking distinct items modified to their creative projects. By supporting small businesses and independent sellers, Etsy nurtures a lively community of artisans and crafters. You can often find customizable products customized to your specific needs, enhancing your creative experience. Feature Description Benefits Unique Items Handmade and one-of-a-kind craft supplies Distinctive projects Customization Options to personalize products Customized to your specifications Vintage Selection Vintage and specialty items Unique finds not in stores With user reviews and ratings, you can make informed purchasing decisions based on previous customer experiences. Dick Blick Art Materials In regards to finding high-quality art supplies, many crafters and artists turn to Dick Blick Art Materials for its extensive selection and reliable service. You’ll appreciate their competitive pricing and frequent sales on popular items, making it a cost-effective choice. Their user-friendly website simplifies the shopping experience, allowing you to easily navigate and search for products. Here are some highlights of what you can find: A broad range of supplies for various mediums, from painting to drawing. Bulk purchasing options, perfect for schools or organizations. Educational resources and project ideas to inspire your creativity. Reliable customer service, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. Dick Blick is a go-to destination for all your art supply needs. Walmart When you’re looking for affordable craft supplies, Walmart stands out as a budget-friendly option that offers everyday low prices. You can easily find a wide range of products online, from basic materials like glue and paper to seasonal items for holiday crafts. The retailer’s online shopping experience is convenient, with options for in-store pickup, ensuring quick access to your supplies. Customer reviews on Walmart’s website help you make informed purchasing decisions by providing insights from other shoppers. Furthermore, Walmart frequently updates its inventory with new craft items, allowing you to stay on top of the latest trends and materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, Walmart has something to meet your crafting needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? The most popular craft store often relies on your specific needs and preferences. Michaels is well-known for its vast selection and frequent sales, making it a go-to for many crafters. Joann shines in fabrics and sewing supplies, appealing to those focused on textile projects. Hobby Lobby offers diverse crafting materials with regular promotions, whereas Etsy provides unique handmade items from small businesses. Each store has its strengths, so consider what you’re looking for. What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? As a beginner, you should start with crucial crafting supplies. Basic scissors, glue, and various paper types are foundational tools. You’ll furthermore want markers, colored pencils, and paints for diverse projects. Consider investing in beginner craft kits, which include all required materials and instructions. If you’re interested in sewing, fabrics like cotton and felt are great choices. Moreover, online resources like Creativebug can help you learn techniques and gain inspiration for your projects. Is Hobby Lobby a Craft Store? Yes, Hobby Lobby is a craft store that specializes in a wide array of crafting materials. You’ll find everything from fabrics and floral arrangements to DIY project kits. The store frequently offers weekly sales, allowing you to save on various products. Moreover, you can shop online, visiting in-store lets you experience the materials firsthand. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby’s clearance section online provides opportunities for significant savings on craft supplies. Does Dollar General Have Craft Supplies? Yes, Dollar General does have craft supplies. You can find a range of basic items like glue, scissors, and craft paper, which are perfect for various projects. They additionally offer seasonal decorations and supplies for holidays, making it easy to find themed items. In addition, you’ll discover colored pencils, markers, and paint suitable for both kids and adults. Their inventory frequently changes, so you might find new craft items during your visits. Conclusion In summary, when you’re looking to buy craft supplies online, you have a variety of excellent options. Retailers like Amazon, Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby cater to diverse crafting needs, from seasonal items to fabric and materials on sale. Etsy offers unique handmade supplies, whereas Dick Blick Art Materials specializes in art supplies. Walmart provides a convenient one-stop shop for various craft items. Each of these retailers guarantees you’ll find the supplies necessary for your projects efficiently and reliably. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Places to Buy Craft Supplies Online" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re looking to purchase craft supplies online, several retailers stand out for their extensive offerings and unique features. Amazon is known for its vast selection and prompt shipping, whereas Michaels frequently provides seasonal items and discounts. Joann specializes in fabric, and Hobby Lobby features a wide array of materials with regular sales. Etsy connects you with handmade supplies from small businesses. Other notable options include Blick Art Materials and Walmart. Each store has its strengths, making your choice important for your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Amazon offers a vast selection of craft supplies with fast shipping options for Prime members and competitive pricing. Michaels features an extensive inventory for all crafters, frequent sales, and a loyalty program for exclusive rewards. Joann specializes in fabrics and sewing supplies, providing coupons, project ideas, and crafting events for skill enhancement. Hobby Lobby provides a wide variety of materials and seasonal items, along with weekly sales and a clearance section for bargains. Etsy is a marketplace for unique, handmade supplies, supporting small businesses and offering customizable and vintage items. Amazon When you’re searching for craft supplies online, Amazon stands out as a top choice due to its extensive selection and user-friendly features. You can find everything from basic materials to specialized items, making it easy to create your arts and crafts supplies list. Prime members benefit from fast shipping options, ensuring you get your supplies quickly when inspiration strikes. The competitive pricing helps you stay within budget, and customer reviews offer valuable insights, guiding you on where to buy craft supplies effectively. If something doesn’t meet your expectations, Amazon’s easy return policy allows for hassle-free returns. This combination of factors makes Amazon one of the best craft stores that deliver right to your door. Michaels Michaels is a leading destination for craft supplies, offering an extensive inventory that caters to all types of crafters. You’ll find everything from seasonal items to fabrics, making it a convenient one-stop shop for art and craft items. The store frequently runs sales and discounts, allowing you to save considerably on popular products. Plus, their loyalty program rewards you with exclusive offers, enhancing your shopping experience. If you’re searching for craft stuffing near me, Michaels provides an online shopping feature with convenient store pickup options, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, Michaels hosts various classes and workshops, helping crafters of all skill levels develop their talents and learn new techniques. Joann Joann stands out as a premier destination for crafters and sewing enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of fabrics and sewing supplies that cater to a wide range of projects. You’ll find everything from cottons to specialty fabrics, ensuring you have the right materials for your creations. Joann frequently provides coupons and promotions, allowing you to save considerably on your purchases. Their user-friendly website also features project ideas and inspiration, making it easy to discover new endeavors. In addition, Joann hosts crafting events and workshops, helping you develop your skills as you connect with fellow crafters. Consider joining their membership program for exclusive offers and discounts, enhancing your shopping experience and making your crafting expedition even more enjoyable. Hobby Lobby Hobby Lobby serves as a thorough resource for crafting enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of materials and home décor items that cater to diverse creative needs. You’ll find everything from fabric and yarn to paints and wood crafts. Take advantage of their weekly sales on different categories, which can lead to significant savings on your purchases. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby features a broad selection of seasonal items, making it an ideal destination for holiday crafting supplies. If you prefer in-store shopping, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see and feel products before buying. For those shopping online, their clearance section is perfect for bargain hunters looking to score great deals on craft supplies without breaking the bank. Etsy Etsy stands out as a premier online marketplace that specializes in unique and handmade craft supplies, making it a go-to platform for those seeking distinct items modified to their creative projects. By supporting small businesses and independent sellers, Etsy nurtures a lively community of artisans and crafters. You can often find customizable products customized to your specific needs, enhancing your creative experience. Feature Description Benefits Unique Items Handmade and one-of-a-kind craft supplies Distinctive projects Customization Options to personalize products Customized to your specifications Vintage Selection Vintage and specialty items Unique finds not in stores With user reviews and ratings, you can make informed purchasing decisions based on previous customer experiences. Dick Blick Art Materials In regards to finding high-quality art supplies, many crafters and artists turn to Dick Blick Art Materials for its extensive selection and reliable service. You’ll appreciate their competitive pricing and frequent sales on popular items, making it a cost-effective choice. Their user-friendly website simplifies the shopping experience, allowing you to easily navigate and search for products. Here are some highlights of what you can find: A broad range of supplies for various mediums, from painting to drawing. Bulk purchasing options, perfect for schools or organizations. Educational resources and project ideas to inspire your creativity. Reliable customer service, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. Dick Blick is a go-to destination for all your art supply needs. Walmart When you’re looking for affordable craft supplies, Walmart stands out as a budget-friendly option that offers everyday low prices. You can easily find a wide range of products online, from basic materials like glue and paper to seasonal items for holiday crafts. The retailer’s online shopping experience is convenient, with options for in-store pickup, ensuring quick access to your supplies. Customer reviews on Walmart’s website help you make informed purchasing decisions by providing insights from other shoppers. Furthermore, Walmart frequently updates its inventory with new craft items, allowing you to stay on top of the latest trends and materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, Walmart has something to meet your crafting needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? The most popular craft store often relies on your specific needs and preferences. Michaels is well-known for its vast selection and frequent sales, making it a go-to for many crafters. Joann shines in fabrics and sewing supplies, appealing to those focused on textile projects. Hobby Lobby offers diverse crafting materials with regular promotions, whereas Etsy provides unique handmade items from small businesses. Each store has its strengths, so consider what you’re looking for. What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? As a beginner, you should start with crucial crafting supplies. Basic scissors, glue, and various paper types are foundational tools. You’ll furthermore want markers, colored pencils, and paints for diverse projects. Consider investing in beginner craft kits, which include all required materials and instructions. If you’re interested in sewing, fabrics like cotton and felt are great choices. Moreover, online resources like Creativebug can help you learn techniques and gain inspiration for your projects. Is Hobby Lobby a Craft Store? Yes, Hobby Lobby is a craft store that specializes in a wide array of crafting materials. You’ll find everything from fabrics and floral arrangements to DIY project kits. The store frequently offers weekly sales, allowing you to save on various products. Moreover, you can shop online, visiting in-store lets you experience the materials firsthand. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby’s clearance section online provides opportunities for significant savings on craft supplies. Does Dollar General Have Craft Supplies? Yes, Dollar General does have craft supplies. You can find a range of basic items like glue, scissors, and craft paper, which are perfect for various projects. They additionally offer seasonal decorations and supplies for holidays, making it easy to find themed items. In addition, you’ll discover colored pencils, markers, and paint suitable for both kids and adults. Their inventory frequently changes, so you might find new craft items during your visits. Conclusion In summary, when you’re looking to buy craft supplies online, you have a variety of excellent options. Retailers like Amazon, Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby cater to diverse crafting needs, from seasonal items to fabric and materials on sale. Etsy offers unique handmade supplies, whereas Dick Blick Art Materials specializes in art supplies. Walmart provides a convenient one-stop shop for various craft items. Each of these retailers guarantees you’ll find the supplies necessary for your projects efficiently and reliably. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Places to Buy Craft Supplies Online" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

To the uninitiated, the term Scope 3 might sound like an obscure technical label. However, for those managing corporate carbon emissions, the term can inspire a range of emotions, from dread to dismay. Scope 3 emissions are generated by indirect upstream and downstream operations, and typically account for the largest share of a company’s carbon footprint. They also lie outside the organization’s direct control. Although one of the sustainability agenda’s most daunting items, technology can provide solutions to the Scope 3 challenge. There’s mounting pressure to tackle these emissions, as institutional investors such as pension funds pay close attention to the climate footprint of their portfolio’s companies. Better-informed consumers seek out more sustainable choices and reward those choices with shifted brand loyalty. And around the world, governments are tightening regulations on emissions levels and climate disclosure requirements. The elusive, indirect nature of Scope 3 emissions Because they are indirect, Scope 3 emissions are extremely difficult to capture, analyze, and report on. These emissions are generated by everything from the extraction of raw materials to manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. They’re emitted during customers’ use of products and the processes needed to reuse, recycle, or dispose of items. Without the right software and systems, measuring and managing these emissions means engaging with hundreds of supply chain partners, each with different data formats and methods of carbon footprint accounting. It’s time-consuming and can lead to inaccuracies. Many supply chain operators struggle to integrate emissions and waste data into their own systems, much less those of suppliers and customers. While supplier surveys are one way to collect supply chain data, survey fatigue is a significant concern. Supplier data is often unreliable or backward-looking and cannot be used to inform real-time sustainability decisions, minimize future emissions, or design strategies that accelerate progress toward sustainability goals. The turn to tech Fortunately, there are solutions—and technology plays a critical role. A network-based software platform can track and monitor all activities and events across the supply chain, including those from multiple suppliers and customers, in real-time. Here are three ways in which technology can help. 1. AI-driven data management for performance data Using artificial intelligence, procurement and transportation activity data from disparate sources can be consolidated and translated into emissions performance data. This provides the reliable, timely, and accurate information needed to manage and reduce Scope 3 emissions, fulfill sustainability reporting requirements, and optimize supply chain efficiency. Visualizing emissions levels across the supply chain, companies can evaluate trade-offs between sustainability and traditional supply chain performance indicators. In short, carbon efficiency becomes a key factor in decision-making. Supply chain partners also gain a better understanding of their carbon footprint, enabling them to meet their own emissions goals. 2. Network-powered platforms for end-to-end visibility When managing something as complex as Scope 3 emissions, end-to-end supply chain visibility is critical. A network-based software platform achieves this by bringing together data from multiple organizations, enabling carbon emissions modeling and supply chain optimization. This approach enables smarter decisions on everything from raw material sourcing to supplier and distribution partner selection, reducing value-chain energy and waste. Companies work with distribution partners to reduce partially filled or empty trucks and to design more fuel-efficient routes for lower Scope 3 emissions. Companies can select supply-chain partners with the most carbon-efficient operations, equipped to measure and share their emissions data. Identifying carbon hotspots—whether by product type, raw material, or geographic location—enables supply chain element design or reconfiguration to account for emissions levels. 3. Forecasting and returns management technology to reduce waste Scope 3 emissions are embedded in the things companies sell and don’t sell. Overproduction and the creation of excess inventory lead to products unsold or in landfills, increasing waste and generating unnecessary energy consumption for manufacturing and transport. Demand forecasting technology enables companies to produce more informed forecasts, allowing them to more accurately predict demand, anticipate fluctuations, and optimize production and inventory management. They’re therefore more likely to meet waste and sustainability goals regulations. Meanwhile, data-driven reverse logistics simplifies the process of retrieving and remerchandising returned goods. These solutions accelerate returning products to the shelf to be sold at full price rather than being discounted or worse, discarded as landfill. Returns processing can also reroute damaged or obsolete returned products into recommerce channels. Seize the decarbonization advantage Operational efficiency in supply chains is all about working with partners, and carbon efficiency is no different. Technology is the connective tissue that, by consolidating data from a wide range of organizations—suppliers, shippers, warehouse operators, retailers, and others—enables smart planning, global coordination at scale, and enhanced supply chain optimization. The task may look daunting, but technology makes it eminently possible to manage Scope 3 emissions. And with supply chain emissions responsible for over 50% of the global total, companies using streamlined data and digital tools to tackle emissions can gain a decarbonization advantage. Not only will the companies meet their sustainability goals, but they’re strategically positioned as a leader in a low-carbon economy. Saskia van Gendt is the chief sustainability officer at Blue Yonder. View the full article

Major League Baseball said its authorized gaming operators will cap bets on individual pitches at $200 and exclude them from parlays, a day after two Cleveland Guardians were indicted and accused of rigging pitches at the behest of gamblers. MLB said Monday the limits were agreed to by sportsbook operators representing more than 98% of the U.S. betting market. The league said in a statement that pitch-level bets on outcomes of pitch velocity and of balls and strikes “present heightened integrity risks because they focus on one-off events that can be determined by a single player and can be inconsequential to the outcome of the game.” “The risk on these pitch-level markets will be significantly mitigated by this new action targeted at the incentive to engage in misconduct,” the league said. “The creation of a strict bet limit on this type of bet, and the ban on parlaying them, reduces the payout for these markets and the ability to circumvent the new limit.” MLB said the agreement included Bally’s, Bet365, BetMGM, Bet99, Betr, Caesars, Circa, DraftKings, 888, FanDuel, Gamewise, Hard Rock, Intralot, Jack Entertainment, Mojo, Northstar Gaming, Oaklawn, Penn, Pointsbet, Potawatomi, Rush Steet and Underdog. Cleveland pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were indicted Sunday in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn on charges they took bribes from sports bettors to throw certain types of pitches. They were charged with wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery and money laundering conspiracy. The indictment says they helped two unnamed gamblers in the Dominican Republic win at least $460,000 on bets placed on the speed and outcome of certain pitches, including some that landed in the dirt. Ortiz’s lawyer, Chris Georgalis, said in a statement that his client was innocent and “has never, and would never, improperly influence a game — not for anyone and not for anything.” A lawyer for Clase, Michael J. Ferrara, said his client “has devoted his life to baseball and doing everything in his power to help his team win. Emmanuel is innocent of all charges and looks forward to clearing his name in court.” The U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 ruled the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 was unconstitutional, allowing states to legalize sports betting. Ortiz appeared Monday in federal court in Boston. U.S. Magistrate Judge Donald L. Cabell granted Ortiz his release on the condition he surrender his passport, restrict his travel to the Northeast U.S. and post a $500,000 bond, $50,000 of it secured. Ortiz was ordered to avoid contact with anyone who could be viewed as a victim, witness or co-defendant. Last month, more than 30 people, including Portland Trail Blazers head coach and Basketball Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, were arrested in a takedown of two sprawling gambling operations that authorities said rigged poker games backed by Mafia families and leaked inside information about NBA athletes. Billups’ attorney, Chris Heywood, issued a statement denying the allegations. Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, said in a statement his client is “not a gambler” and “looks forward to winning this fight.” AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB —Ronald Blum, AP Baseball Writer View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Amazon announced its Black Friday and Cyber Monday plans this week—although it won't start until Nov. 20, you can already find early Black Friday deals on Amazon devices. Their "like-new" Kindle readers, in particular, have good discounts right now. The Kindle Paperwhite is $106.99 (originally $143.99), the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is $126.99 (originally $179.99), the 16GB Kindle Scribe is $212.99 (originally $309.99), and the 64GB Kindle Scribe is $278.99 (originally $404.99). Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB 7" eReader (Like-New, Black) $106.99 at Amazon $143.99 Save $37.00 Get Deal Get Deal $106.99 at Amazon $143.99 Save $37.00 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Ed. 32GB 7" eReader (Like New) $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Get Deal Get Deal $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Certified Refurbished Amazon Kindle Scribe (16 GB) the first Kindle and digital notebook, all in one, with a 10.2” 300 ppi Paperwhite display, includes Premium Pen 16 GB Without Kindle Unlimited $212.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $309.99 Save $97.00 Get Deal Get Deal $212.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $309.99 Save $97.00 Like-New Amazon Kindle Scribe (64 GB) - Your notes, documents and books, all in one place. With built-in AI notebook summarization. Includes Premium Pen - Tungsten $278.99 at Amazon $404.99 Save $126.00 Get Deal Get Deal $278.99 at Amazon $404.99 Save $126.00 SEE 1 MORE The Kindle Paperwhite is the most popular reading tablet from Amazon, and it's the best for most people, according to PCMag's "outstanding" review. It offers many improvements over the 11th-generation version from 2021—mainly a larger seven-inch display and a much faster boost in performance. It still retains all of the great attributes that made the previous version great, like a fully waterproof design with an IPX8 rating, enough storage to hold more than 10,000 books, and unlimited cloud storage. If you want an ad-free experience with some better features, get the Signature Edition. We also have a breakdown of every kind of Kindle to help you decide. If you already own the 11th generation, there might not be enough here to warrant an upgrade, unless you just want the latest Amazon has to offer. However, any devices older than that may be worth an upgrade for features like Bluetooth compatibility, which is great for audiobooks. The latest version of the Kindle Scribe, an upgraded version of the classic e-reader designed for note-taking, came out in December 2024, offering some nice upgrades that make the device more pleasant to use. It comes with a Premium Pen and a more paper-like feel screen that gives you resistance when writing notes. View the full article

Project milestone examples are essential markers that help teams track progress and ensure projects stay on schedule. Milestones signal the completion of critical phases, key deliverables or important approvals, giving stakeholders a clear view of a project’s progress. Across industries from construction to software development, project milestone examples provide structure and accountability, helping managers plan, allocate resources and communicate effectively with their teams and clients. Understanding project milestone examples allows organizations to identify high-impact points in a project timeline, set realistic goals and manage risks more efficiently. By using milestone examples, project managers can break complex projects into manageable segments, track dependencies and maintain focus on strategic objectives. What Is a Project Milestone? A project milestone is a significant point or event in a project timeline that marks the completion of a phase, deliverable, or critical decision. Milestones help managers monitor progress, evaluate performance and communicate project achievements to stakeholders. They act as checkpoints to ensure projects are on track and goals are being met on time and within budget. Project management software enhances the use of project milestone examples by providing visual timelines, automated alerts and real-time updates. Managers can create, track and adjust milestones, ensuring the team stays aligned with deadlines and priorities. ProjectManager is the best software for managing project milestones because it integrates milestone tracking with Gantt charts that link dependencies, filters for the critical path and sets a baseline to track milestones in real time, dashboards and AI-powered reports. Teams can assign milestones to tasks, monitor dependencies and receive automatic notifications when milestones are achieved or at risk, making project execution more efficient and transparent. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Construction-Gantt-light-mode-task-info-general-CTA-BUTTON-1.jpgLearn more Project Milestone Examples in a Construction Project When managing a large-scale apartment complex construction, setting clear milestones keeps everyone aligned on progress and priorities. From initial permits to the final inspection, milestones act as checkpoints that measure completion and signal readiness for the next phase. The following table presents five realistic project milestone examples for a construction project, showing key dates, responsible parties and descriptions that illustrate how structured milestones guide successful project delivery. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Building Permit Approved All necessary city permits obtained to begin site work. Jan 20, 2025 Project Manager Completed Foundation Completed Concrete foundation poured and cured, ready for framing. Mar 10, 2025 Construction Manager In Progress Structural Framing Finished Main building structure fully erected and inspected. Jun 30, 2025 Site Supervisor Scheduled Electrical & Plumbing Installed All internal MEP systems installed and tested for compliance. Sep 15, 2025 Engineering Lead Pending Final Inspection & Occupancy Permit City inspector approves the property for occupancy. Dec 5, 2025 Compliance Officer Upcoming /wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Milestones-template-featured-image.jpg Get your free Project Milestone Template Use this free Project Milestone Template to manage your projects better. Get the Template Project Milestone Examples in an IT Project In IT projects, milestones help teams stay on track and ensure deliverables are completed on time. For example, during a software development project, milestones can mark key points such as requirements approval, prototype completion, user testing and final release. Tracking these milestones ensures that the project progresses smoothly, dependencies are managed and stakeholders remain informed. Clear milestone examples provide visibility into the project’s health and allow the project manager to adjust resources and priorities as needed. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Requirements Approval Project requirements reviewed and approved by stakeholders. Feb 15, 2025 Business Analyst Completed Prototype Development Completed Initial version of software ready for internal testing. Mar 30, 2025 Development Lead In Progress User Acceptance Testing End users test the system to ensure it meets requirements. May 15, 2025 QA Manager Scheduled Final Release Software deployed to production and made available to users. Jun 30, 2025 Release Manager Pending Post-Deployment Review Project team evaluates success and lessons learned for next cycle. Jul 15, 2025 Project Manager Upcoming Project Milestone Examples in a Manufacturing Project In manufacturing projects, milestones are crucial for tracking production progress and meeting delivery deadlines. For instance, when launching a new product, milestones might include prototype completion, production line setup, quality control approval and mass production start. Monitoring these milestone examples ensures that each phase is completed on schedule, resources are properly allocated and potential delays are identified early. Clear milestones help project managers coordinate teams, maintain efficiency and deliver high-quality products on time. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Prototype Completed Initial product prototype manufactured and tested for functionality. Feb 28, 2025 R&D Team Completed Production Line Setup Manufacturing equipment and workflows established for full production. Mar 20, 2025 Operations Manager In Progress Quality Control Approval All production units inspected and approved for compliance with standards. Apr 15, 2025 Quality Manager Scheduled Mass Production Start Full-scale manufacturing begins according to production schedule. May 1, 2025 Production Supervisor Pending Product Launch Finished products shipped to market and available for sale. Jun 10, 2025 Marketing Manager Upcoming Related: 18 Free Manufacturing Excel Templates Project Milestone Examples in Event Planning In event planning, milestones help organizers ensure every stage of preparation is completed on time and within budget. From booking the venue to confirming vendors, coordinating speakers and managing attendee registrations, each milestone ensures smooth execution. Tracking milestone examples allows event managers to identify bottlenecks, adjust timelines and guarantee a successful event. Clear milestones also help teams communicate progress effectively, assign responsibilities and deliver memorable experiences without last-minute surprises or operational issues. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Venue Booked Event location secured and contracts signed with the venue. Jan 10, 2025 Event Coordinator Completed Vendors Confirmed Catering, audio-visual and decoration vendors booked and contracts approved. Feb 5, 2025 Logistics Manager In Progress Speakers Finalized Keynote and guest speakers confirmed with finalized presentation topics. Feb 25, 2025 Program Manager Scheduled Attendee Registration Open Event registration portal launched and invitations sent to participants. Mar 10, 2025 Marketing Coordinator Pending Event Day Execution All event activities conducted successfully according to the plan. Apr 15, 2025 Event Manager Upcoming Project Milestone Examples in a Professional Services Consulting Project In professional services consulting, milestones guide project teams through critical phases such as client onboarding, research, analysis and deliverable submission. Tracking milestone examples ensures consultants meet deadlines, maintain quality and provide value to clients. Clear milestones help allocate resources effectively, communicate expectations to stakeholders and monitor project progress. By defining milestones for each phase, consulting teams can reduce risks, identify bottlenecks early and deliver recommendations on time, maintaining client satisfaction and project profitability. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Client Kickoff Meeting Initial meeting held to align objectives, scope and deliverables with the client. Jan 15, 2025 Project Lead Completed Data Collection Completed All necessary client data gathered for analysis and benchmarking. Feb 10, 2025 Analyst Team In Progress Analysis and Recommendations Delivered Key insights, strategic recommendations and reports provided to the client. Mar 25, 2025 Consulting Manager Scheduled Client Review Meeting Presentation and discussion of findings and recommendations with client stakeholders. Apr 5, 2025 Project Lead Pending Project Closure and Sign-off Final project report delivered, lessons learned documented, and client sign-off obtained. Apr 20, 2025 Project Lead Upcoming Related: 20 Best Resource Management Software of 2025 (Free & Paid) Project Milestone Examples in a Software Development Project In software development, project milestones mark key phases such as requirement gathering, design, coding, testing and deployment. Tracking milestone examples ensures teams deliver features on time, maintain code quality and meet client expectations. Clearly defined milestones allow project managers to allocate resources efficiently, monitor progress and identify risks early. Milestones also support team collaboration and provide transparency for stakeholders. Using milestones, software teams can complete sprints successfully, manage deadlines effectively and ensure high-quality deliverables within budget and scope. Project Milestone Description Target Date Responsible Party Status Requirements Gathering Completed All client and stakeholder requirements documented and approved. Jan 20, 2025 Business Analyst Completed System Design Approved High-level and detailed design documentation reviewed and signed off by stakeholders. Feb 15, 2025 Solution Architect In Progress Coding Phase Completed All planned features developed and initial unit testing completed. Apr 5, 2025 Development Team Lead Scheduled Integration Testing Completed All components tested together to ensure proper functionality and no regressions. May 10, 2025 QA Lead Pending Deployment and Go-Live Application deployed to production environment and verified for performance and stability. Jun 1, 2025 Release Manager Upcoming Project Milestone Template Download this free project milestone template to help teams track key milestones across any type of project, from IT and software development to event planning and professional services. Project managers can use this template to define each milestone clearly, assign responsibilities, set target dates and monitor progress. The visual layout makes it easy to communicate timelines with stakeholders and ensures that critical project phases stay on track, avoiding delays and missed deadlines. /wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Milestones-Template-Screenshot-600x279.png The template is fully customizable to suit the unique needs of your project. Users can adjust milestone names, descriptions, dates and responsible parties while keeping the structured format intact. This flexibility allows teams to maintain clarity and consistency across all project phases. With this free milestone template, teams gain a reliable tool for planning, executing and reviewing project milestones, which improves accountability, visibility and overall project success. ProjectManager Is Ideal for Tracking Project Milestones ProjectManager is ideal for tracking project milestones because it provides a centralized platform where all milestones are visible in real time. Managers can create milestones, assign tasks, set deadlines and monitor progress across multiple projects simultaneously. This ensures nothing falls through the cracks and allows teams to stay aligned on priorities. The platform’s intuitive interface and automated alerts keep everyone informed, which reduces the risk of delays and miscommunication while improving overall project performance. Monitor Milestones in Real Time With ProjectManager, users can monitor milestones in real time using AI-powered dashboards and Gantt charts. Each milestone is linked to tasks, deadlines and team members, so progress is immediately visible. Managers can identify delays early, reassign resources or adjust timelines to keep the project on track. Notifications and progress indicators make it easy to stay informed without constantly checking in manually, saving time and improving accountability across the team. /wp-content/uploads/2025/10/AI-Insights-Light-Mode-Dashboard-GPT5.png Optimize Resource Allocation and Tracking ProjectManager also helps optimize resource allocation by showing workload charts, task dependencies, the team page and team availability. This ensures that resources are assigned efficiently and that milestones are achievable with current capacity. Tracking features, including AI Project Insights and timesheet integration, allow managers to assess team performance, forecast risks and adjust plans accordingly. This comprehensive approach to milestone management ensures projects are completed on time and within budget while maintaining high quality. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png Content Related to Project Milestones If you’re interested in learning more about project milestones, you’re in luck. Below are some links that define milestones in project management, show how to create a milestone and much more. What Are Milestones in Project Management? How to Create a Milestone Chart with Project Management Software Timeline With Milestones: How to Make One Milestones Template for Excel (Free Download) ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post 30 Project Milestone Examples Across Industries appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

I’m off today so here’s an older post from the archives. This was originally published in 2020. A reader writes: I work in an office where I’m the only person who can do 75% of my job, but there’s a second person who can do essential functions. We have a policy that only one of the two of us is allowed to request advance time off at a given time (so one of us is always in, barring emergencies). I’m getting married in October, and in relation to that requested — and was approved for — two days before the wedding and the two weeks following. I don’t take much time off and have more than enough “in the bank” to cover that with some left over. It was approved immediately by my supervisor. Since then, my close coworker (Jane, who covers some of my essential duties) first started asking if I really “need” that much time off. She then dropped a bit of a bombshell on me and said that she “really needs to go to Florida the following weekend (after my wedding) for a cousin’s wedding” so asked if I could be in for the second half of that week as well as the following Monday. I told her that my plans weren’t certain yet, but that I didn’t want to commit to that and leave those requested days open. That was met with a tirade about how she “always looks out for me” and that I need to “do this one thing for her.” We normally have a cordial, if not especially friendly, relationship but she has turned nasty and threatened to blackmail me over a a sick day where she claims I “wasn’t really sick.” She had seen me at the grocery, where I was mostly picking up a prescription but also doing general grocery shopping, but don’t have a doctor’s note if push comes to shove. When she brought it up, she said, “That day I saw you at the grocery store, I know you weren’t really sick but were just goofing off for the day. I’ll report you for that.” I responded with, “I was there to pick up a prescription, even though I bought some other things because I didn’t have anything at home that sounded good.” She responded, “If you don’t let me have this, I’m still going to report it.” (For context, this happened during the work day, probably around 1:00 in the afternoon. Sometimes one of us will go to the store to buy work supplies during the day. When I saw her there, I had just come from the doctor’s office, which is literally right across the street, and was shopping for other things while waiting on a prescription to be filled at the store pharmacy.) This has gone on for a week and she’s not dropping it that I need to be in those specific days, and I’m not relenting. There’s a possibility that — for a variety of reasons — I won’t even be working there in October, but at the same time I don’t know how to handle this. I mentioned it in passing to my supervisor, who wasn’t overly interested and he indicated that I was “okay” since I’d requested the time 9+ months in advance. Still, though, I feel that the battle isn’t over yet, and it’s negatively affecting my ability to actually do my day to day job as Jane is refusing to do the small part of her job that I don’t have the proper training/credentials/ability to do. In addition, there are the logistics that if our supervisor agrees to let us both off, I’m no doubt going have two dozen calls/texts a day on my honeymoon from people who are persistent enough to call me 10 times in a row if I don’t answer. Needless to say, that’s NOT a situation that I want to deal with, but it happens any other day when both of us are off (heck, it happens when I’m off just because of the sheer volume of stuff that she doesn’t care to learn to be able to answer). Jane is a jerk. But not a very smart jerk. She thinks she has way more power here than she does! And I think you think she does too. You requested time off for your wedding and honeymoon nine months in advance. It has been approved. Your manager reiterated that your time off is secure. Jane’s blackmail attempt is embarrassing — for her. It has no teeth at all. You don’t have anything to hide because you didn’t do anything wrong. You’re allowed to pick up prescriptions when you’re sick. You’re also allowed to buy yourself groceries when you’re sick. But if your manager really doubted you for some reason (which is unlikely), you could always contact your doctor’s office to get documentation that you did indeed have an appointment that day. It probably won’t come to that, though. But if you needed to, know that you could get the back-up you need. Unless your boss is a complete fool, I can’t imagine he wouldn’t be at least slightly interested in knowing that one of his employees is (a) attempting to blackmail another (b) into altering her wedding and honeymoon plans (c) that have already been approved and (d) is refusing to do part of her job because of a personal vendetta. I strongly suggest that you talk to him and say this: “Jane is harassing me about the time off I had approved for my wedding and honeymoon. She wants some of those same days and told me that if I don’t change my own time off request, she will report me for misusing a sick day. That’s false. She saw me in the grocery store while I was picking up a prescription on a sick day. I can get a note from my doctor that I was seen that day if you need me to. I think it’s hugely problematic that she’s trying to blackmail me to change my days off, so I want to make sure you’re in the loop that that’s happening. She also is refusing to do (specific work tasks) because she’s upset with me. Obviously, I rely on her to do XYZ to be able to do my own job. Can you intervene, so that her harassment stops and I can do my work?” If your boss won’t intervene, then he’s passive to the point of negligence and you should say the above to HR as well. This is the kind of BS that managers should handle on their own but which HR will usually step in on if you need them to. Meanwhile, with Jane, tell her this: “I’m not going to discuss my time off with you any further. If you want to report seeing me in the store picking up a prescription, feel free to. I can get documentation from my doctor if I need to, and I’ll happily let (manager) know the situation myself. But I’m not going to discuss this anymore.” If she continues to push, say, “You need to talk to (manager) about this. It’s not up for discussion between us anymore.” But if your boss is at all decent, he’ll shut this down once you explain what’s been happening. If the outcome is that he gives Jane the days off she wants and so you’re both gone on the same dates, let people know ahead of time that you will be on your honeymoon and 100% not reachable. Tell them you won’t be responding to calls or texts, and then stick to that. In fact, block everyone from your office during that time away so you don’t even see it if they’re trying to contact you. If you feel weird about doing that, then tell your boss in advance what you’re worried about, and reiterate that you will be 100% inaccessible. People do this! You’re allowed to take a freakin’ honeymoon without work calls. But stop fearing Jane. What she’s doing is super messed up in a way no decent manager would condone, you have the power to expose that, and you should use it. The update to this letter is essential reading! Do not miss it. The post my coworker is blackmailing me not to take time off for my honeymoon appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Google Business Profiles has a form where you can report negative review extortion scams, the form launched a month ago. You can find access to the form in this help document and I believe you need to be logged into your Google account with access to the Business Profile you want to report. Review extortion scams. This negative review extortion scams are on the rise and a huge concern for local SEOs and businesses. A scammer will message you, likely over WhatsApp or email, and tell you that they left a one-star negative review and the only way to remove it is to pay them. Google wrote in its help document, “These scams may involve a sudden increase in 1-star and 2-star reviews on your Google Business Profile, followed by someone demanding money, goods, or services in exchange for removing the negative reviews.” The form. The form can be accessed while logged into your Google account by clicking here. The form asks for your information, the affected Google Business Profile details, more details on the extortion review, and additional evidence. Do not engage. Google posted four tips when you are confronted with these scams: Do not engage with or pay the malicious individuals. This can encourage further attempts and doesn’t guarantee the removal of reviews. Do not try to resolve it yourself by offering money or services. Gather all evidence immediately. The sooner you collect proof, the better. Report all relevant communication you receive in the form. Give it a try. There are some who are doubtful that this form actually does anything. But one local SEO tried it out over the weekend and within a few days, the review in question was removed. So it is worth giving it a shot. Why we care. Reviews on your local listing, especially on Google Maps and Google Search, can have a huge impact on your business. Negative reviews will encourage customers to look for other businesses, even if those reviews are fraudulent. So, being on top of your reviews and removing the fake and fraudulent reviews is an important task most businesses should do on an ongoing basis. This form will help you manage some of those fake reviews. View the full article

Japanese technology giant SoftBank said Tuesday it has sold its stake in Nvidia, raising $5.8 billion to pour into other investments. It also reported its profit nearly tripled in the first half of this fiscal year from a year earlier. Tokyo-based SoftBank Group Corp. said it sold the stake in Silicon Vally-based Nvidia in October, a move that reflects its shift in focus to OpenAI, owner of the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT. SoftBank reported its profit in April-September soared to about 2.5 trillion yen (about $13 billion). Its sales for the six month period rose 7.7% year-on-year to 3.7 trillion yen ($24 billion), it said. The company’s fortunes tend to fluctuate because it invests in a range of ventures, including through its tech-focused Vision Funds. Those recently have paid off. In February, SoftBank’s chairman Masayoshi Son joined The President, Sam Altman of OpenAI and Larry Ellison of Oracle in announcing a major investment of up to $500 billion in a project to develop artificial intelligence called Stargate. SoftBank has invested tens of billions of dollars in OpenAI. The two companies also plan to provide AI services in Japan. Selling SoftBank’s stake in Nvidia reflects Son’s shift in strategy and also nets his company a healthy profit thanks to the recent runup in Nvidia’s market value. Nvidia recently become the first $5 trillion company, just three months after it broke through the $4 trillion barrier. It plans a $100 billion investment in OpenAI as part of a partnership that will add at least 10 gigawatts of Nvidia AI data centers to ramp up OpenAI’s computing power. The chip maker and other winners in the frenzy around artificial-intelligence technology have been driving much of this year’s rally in share prices. Critics say stock prices of the tech giants have soared too high and too fast in the mania around AI, drawing comparisons to the 2000 dot-com bubble that ultimately burst. SoftBank and Nvidia still have strong relations since various ventures that SoftBank invests in use Nvidia technology. SoftBank also has investments in Arm Holdings and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., computer chip makers that like Nvidia are benefitting greatly from the growth of AI. SoftBank stocks have nearly doubled in value in the past year. They gained nearly 2% Tuesday. Nvidia’s shares fell 1.3% in premarket trading early Tuesday. They jumped 5.8% on Monday. Yuri Kageyama is on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@yurikageyama —Yuri Kageyama, AP Business Writer View the full article

As the digital landscape evolves, Cisco is stepping up to empower its partners, particularly small businesses, with the new Cisco 360 Partner Program set to launch on January 25, 2026. This program is designed to enhance customer value and profitability, making it an exciting opportunity for small business owners eager to leverage new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). At the recent Cisco Partner Summit in San Diego, executives revealed how the Cisco 360 Partner Program seeks to transform the way partners can engage with customers and gain financial rewards. Over 20 years in the making, it is not just about recognition; it’s about equipping partners to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment focused on AI-driven solutions. “We appreciate that Cisco invited partners to co-design the new program and listened to ideas along the way. This program is a true reflection of partnership and we’re confident it will help set us up for success,” said Nicko Roussos, Senior Vice President of Cisco Strategy & Transformation at TD Synnex. The Cisco 360 Partner Program introduces several key benefits. One of the standout features is the newly enhanced partner incentives framework, which rewards portfolio depth and specialized knowledge. Partners will have access to tools like the Cisco Partner Incentive Estimator, making it easier to model profitability as they focus on key innovation areas such as AI, security, and collaboration. The program also introduces bonuses tied to specific objectives like broadening a portfolio or achieving deep expertise in emerging technologies. Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, Senior Vice President at Cisco Partner Program, stated, “By investing in our partners’ capabilities and giving them the tools and resources they need, we’re enabling our ecosystem to deliver greater customer outcomes.” Small business owners can expect a range of new specializations come February 2026, including those focused on Secure AI Infrastructure and Secure Networking. These certifications not only represent an opportunity for knowledge and skill evolution but also come with financial benefits. By attaining these specializations, partners may be eligible for additional incentives, promoting deeper engagement with Cisco’s integrated solutions. The program aims to ensure that customers receive tailored, comprehensive solutions from design to ongoing engagement. Ryan Morris, President of Blackwood, noted the significance of aligning incentives directly with customer outcomes. “This program is a clear sign that Cisco is committed to driving industry standards in the channel,” he added. However, small business owners should also consider the potential challenges that come with adaptation to this new program. While the incentives are attractive, there may be a learning curve associated with the new tools and structures Cisco is putting in place. The program requires commitment and participation from partners to fully maximize the resources and benefits available, such as access to Cisco’s advanced training tools, demo environments, and marketing support. The Cisco 360 Partner Program promises a revamped Partner Experience Platform, providing detailed insights into performance that help small businesses gauge their progress and predict revenue more accurately. This platform aligns with Cisco’s goal of enhancing collaboration across its global partner ecosystem. Tim Coogan, Senior Vice President of Global Partner Sales at Cisco, emphasized, “The Cisco 360 Partner Program serves the agile partner ecosystem that reacts and adapts quickly, innovates continuously, and scales efficiently.” For small business owners navigating the challenges of data complexity and skills gaps, Cisco’s focus on comprehensive partner enablement, through practical training and resources, is invaluable. As the digital landscape continually shifts, those who leverage these emerging opportunities may find themselves well-positioned to not only compete but to lead in the AI era. As an owner of a small business, connecting with the new program could mean accessing cutting-edge tools and support tailored to your needs. Engaging with the Cisco 360 Partner Program may allow small firms to not only enhance their operational capabilities but also drive customer satisfaction and loyalty through innovative solutions. More details about the Cisco 360 Partner Program can be found in the original press release at Cisco’s Newsroom: Cisco Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Cisco Unveils 360 Partner Program to Boost Profitability and AI Readiness" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As the digital landscape evolves, Cisco is stepping up to empower its partners, particularly small businesses, with the new Cisco 360 Partner Program set to launch on January 25, 2026. This program is designed to enhance customer value and profitability, making it an exciting opportunity for small business owners eager to leverage new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). At the recent Cisco Partner Summit in San Diego, executives revealed how the Cisco 360 Partner Program seeks to transform the way partners can engage with customers and gain financial rewards. Over 20 years in the making, it is not just about recognition; it’s about equipping partners to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment focused on AI-driven solutions. “We appreciate that Cisco invited partners to co-design the new program and listened to ideas along the way. This program is a true reflection of partnership and we’re confident it will help set us up for success,” said Nicko Roussos, Senior Vice President of Cisco Strategy & Transformation at TD Synnex. The Cisco 360 Partner Program introduces several key benefits. One of the standout features is the newly enhanced partner incentives framework, which rewards portfolio depth and specialized knowledge. Partners will have access to tools like the Cisco Partner Incentive Estimator, making it easier to model profitability as they focus on key innovation areas such as AI, security, and collaboration. The program also introduces bonuses tied to specific objectives like broadening a portfolio or achieving deep expertise in emerging technologies. Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, Senior Vice President at Cisco Partner Program, stated, “By investing in our partners’ capabilities and giving them the tools and resources they need, we’re enabling our ecosystem to deliver greater customer outcomes.” Small business owners can expect a range of new specializations come February 2026, including those focused on Secure AI Infrastructure and Secure Networking. These certifications not only represent an opportunity for knowledge and skill evolution but also come with financial benefits. By attaining these specializations, partners may be eligible for additional incentives, promoting deeper engagement with Cisco’s integrated solutions. The program aims to ensure that customers receive tailored, comprehensive solutions from design to ongoing engagement. Ryan Morris, President of Blackwood, noted the significance of aligning incentives directly with customer outcomes. “This program is a clear sign that Cisco is committed to driving industry standards in the channel,” he added. However, small business owners should also consider the potential challenges that come with adaptation to this new program. While the incentives are attractive, there may be a learning curve associated with the new tools and structures Cisco is putting in place. The program requires commitment and participation from partners to fully maximize the resources and benefits available, such as access to Cisco’s advanced training tools, demo environments, and marketing support. The Cisco 360 Partner Program promises a revamped Partner Experience Platform, providing detailed insights into performance that help small businesses gauge their progress and predict revenue more accurately. This platform aligns with Cisco’s goal of enhancing collaboration across its global partner ecosystem. Tim Coogan, Senior Vice President of Global Partner Sales at Cisco, emphasized, “The Cisco 360 Partner Program serves the agile partner ecosystem that reacts and adapts quickly, innovates continuously, and scales efficiently.” For small business owners navigating the challenges of data complexity and skills gaps, Cisco’s focus on comprehensive partner enablement, through practical training and resources, is invaluable. As the digital landscape continually shifts, those who leverage these emerging opportunities may find themselves well-positioned to not only compete but to lead in the AI era. As an owner of a small business, connecting with the new program could mean accessing cutting-edge tools and support tailored to your needs. Engaging with the Cisco 360 Partner Program may allow small firms to not only enhance their operational capabilities but also drive customer satisfaction and loyalty through innovative solutions. More details about the Cisco 360 Partner Program can be found in the original press release at Cisco’s Newsroom: Cisco Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Cisco Unveils 360 Partner Program to Boost Profitability and AI Readiness" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google Ads is updating its Destination requirements policy to block phone numbers tied to fraud or prior policy violations, part of the company’s ongoing effort to curb deceptive advertising practices. The timeline: Policy update effective: December 10, 2025 Enforcement ramp-up: Over roughly 8 weeks after rollout What’s changing. Phone numbers flagged as fraudulent or with a history of violations will now be deemed unacceptable under the Destination requirements policy, leading to ad disapprovals. Why we care. The change targets bad actors who use legitimate-looking phone numbers to mislead users or bypass enforcement, a recurring issue in sectors like tech support scams and lead generation. It’s a reminder to audit contact information across campaigns and ensure all numbers are verified and legitimate. Failing to do so could disrupt ad delivery, delay approvals, and hurt campaign performance during the enforcement rollout. For advertisers. Those impacted will receive disapproval notices and can refer to Google’s help center for guidance on fixing disapproved ads or assets. First seen. This update was shared by ADSQUIRE founder, Anthony Higman on X. Between the lines. Google continues tightening ad verification and destination standards amid growing scrutiny over scams and consumer trust — showing that accountability for ad content now extends beyond just the landing page. View the full article

GEO, AI SEO, AEO – call it what you like. The label doesn’t matter nearly as much as understanding the shift behind it. At the center of that shift lies one idea that explains everything: AI availability – and here’s why it matters. What is AI availability? The idea of AI availability comes from Byron Sharp, research professor at the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute, who introduced it in a comment on one of my LinkedIn posts. Sharp’s work underpins modern brand science and shows that growth depends on availability. Brands grow through sales, and sales grow through two kinds of availability: mental and physical. Mental availability refers to the likelihood of being considered in a purchasing situation. Physical availability refers to the ease and convenience with which an item can be bought. For years, these two principles have guided brand strategy. They explain why Coca-Cola invests in constant visibility and why Amazon makes every click lead to a checkout. But in the era of generative search, there’s now a third kind of availability marketers need to understand – the likelihood that your brand or product will be recommended by an AI system when a user is ready to buy. That is AI availability – and it changes everything. AI as the new influencer If you are still thinking of AI as a technology, you are already behind. Think of it instead as the world’s most powerful influencer. ChatGPT alone is used by about 10% of the global adult population, according to recent research from OpenAI, Harvard, and Duke. That makes it far more pervasive than any social media platform at a similar stage in its life cycle. Most people do not use it to code or write poetry – they use it to make decisions. Nearly 80% of ChatGPT conversations, the same study found, fall into three categories: Practical guidance. Seeking information. Writing. In other words, people are asking AI to help them decide what to do, buy, and believe. The study also shows that these conversations are increasingly focused on everyday decisions rather than work. The distinction between search, research, and conversation is collapsing. Source: “How People Use ChatGPT,” OpenAI, Harvard University, and Duke University The result is simple. AI systems are now the gatekeepers of modern discovery. They decide what information to surface and which businesses appear in front of consumers. Forget the Kardashians. Forget influencer marketing. If you’re invisible to AI, you’re invisible to the market. AI is the new influencer. From keywords to fitness signals The SEO industry has spent two decades optimizing for how humans search with keywords – but that is changing. Large language models (LLMs) infer meaning from context, probability, and performance. They are scanning for what we can call fitness signals – a term from network science. Fitness describes a product or service’s inherent ability to outcompete rivals, allowing one business to dominate a market even if others started earlier or invested more. Think of how Google overtook Yahoo. It wasn’t just about better search algorithms – it was a better business model built on a stronger performance attribute: relevance. These performance attributes are what make a business fit for survival. They are the qualities that define how well you solve a problem for a customer. AI deploys search strategies to identify which businesses solve which problems most effectively. Because it exists to serve human needs, those same signals determine your AI availability. Yes, AI uses search strings, fan-out queries, and reciprocal rank fusion, among many other strategies and tactics. It doesn’t search like humans because it isn’t bound by the same cognitive and speed limitations. Humans search by “satisficing.” Keywords + Page 1 rankings = good enough. Machines operate on an industrial scale – searching, gathering, assessing, and recommending. Dig deeper: Fame engineering: The key to generative engine optimization The psychology of performance To understand why this works, we turn to evolutionary psychology. Geoffrey Miller, author of “Spent,” explained that humans have always been driven by two fundamental needs. We seek to display fitness indicators that enhance our status. We chase fitness cues that increase our chances of survival or pleasure. Consumer products have evolved to meet those needs. Luxury goods signal success. Convenience products signal control. Both deliver psychological reassurance. AI works in a similar way. Its goal is to satisfy human intent. When someone types a complex prompt into an LLM, the AI interprets it not as a string of keywords but as a statement of need. It then searches its training data and live information to find the most relevant and trustworthy performance attributes that match that need. That is why context matters so much more than content. You are no longer competing for blue links – you are competing for cognitive inclusion in an AI’s mental model of your category. Your job is to make your brand’s fitness and performance attributes unmissable to that model. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Category entry points and the new SEO Category entry points are the situations, needs, and triggers that put someone in the market to buy. In the world of GEO, these are your new keywords. They are what users express in prompts rather than in search terms. “Where can I find sustainable running shoes for flat feet?” is not a keyword query – it is a buying situation. Your strategy is to: Understand those buying situations. Map them to your own performance attributes. Create enough context that AI can confidently associate your brand with the solution. That means describing not only what you do, but how you do it, who you do it for, and why you are distinctive. This isn’t new. It’s the same foundational brand positioning marketers have always needed. What’s changed is that it now feeds the world’s most sophisticated recommender system. Dig deeper: AI search is booming, but SEO is still not dead A local example: The sandwich shop in Stoke Imagine a small sandwich shop in Stoke. It’s not glamorous, serving sausage sandwiches, bacon rolls, and coffee. The owners don’t want to be influencers. They just want customers. How does a business like this make itself visible to AI? Turn everyday details into data signals The first step is to make its performance attributes explicit. What ingredients are used? Where do they come from? What makes the sandwiches good value? How long has the business served the local community? Where is it located? What is the hygiene rating? All these details are small signals of trust and quality. A strong website should describe them in clear, human language. Every piece of information tells AI that: This business exists. It serves specific needs. It performs well in doing so. Build reputation where AI listens Next, build local reputation. Encourage reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, and social media. Invite local bloggers to taste and review the food. Issue a press release about an anniversary or charity event. Every third-party mention adds more mutual information between your brand and the market – and that’s what AI learns from. GEO is where good brand marketing meets intelligent technology. Embrace both SEO and GEO And for the “GEO is just SEO” crowd, yes, ranking on Google and in the local pack might be the best bet for increasing AI availability for this shop. However, it might also be hosting a relaunch event and inviting 30 local bloggers and press members to secure coverage. Both are valid tactics with multiple benefits – and you can do both. Until Google decides what it’s doing with the 10 blue links and AI Mode, bothism is the best plan – SEO and GEO, not just one. From PR to performance Larger businesses apply the same logic at scale. The recent wave of acquisitions in the SEO and analytics sector is a testament to this. Semrush acquiring Search Engine Land. Ahrefs buying Detailed.com. Countless agencies launching their own media arms are not random expansions. These are deliberate attempts to control information ecosystems. Owning media outlets, communities, and data platforms increases a company’s visibility in the information that AIs learn from. It creates an abundance of references that confirm expertise, authoritativeness, and relevance. In traditional SEO, this is referred to as off-page optimization. In GEO, it is strategic distribution – where performance attributes and PR meet. Your goal is to describe what you do, while making sure others also describe it. Fame, distinctive assets, and consistency still matter. But the audience is no longer just human. Dig deeper: AI search relies on brand-controlled sources, not Reddit: Report Building AI availability To make your brand visible to machines that now mediate discovery, you need to understand how and where that visibility is built. Start with a visibility audit Diagnose your current presence. Identify the category entry points most relevant to your products, and ask what prompts a user might type when they are ready to buy. Tools such as Semrush’s AI Enterprise platform can simulate these scenarios and show where your brand appears. Get listed where AI looks Identify the sources that AI models reference. Many LLMs use a mix of training data and live search, with listicles, directories, and “best of” articles among the most common data sources. Being included in those lists is a sensible marketing strategy. Just as supermarkets stock their own shelves with their best products, you should position your brand among the best available options. Expand your owned ecosystem Over time, you’ll find saturation points where every competitor appears in the same lists. At that stage, innovation and owned media become essential. Start your own publication, commission original research, and contribute to conversations in your category. Create context that earns recommendations Digital shelf space isn’t the problem. Credible context amplifies your fitness signals. Efficient, data-led, and creative, this is GEO’s manufactured style. But its success depends entirely on having a brand worth recommending. That’s why GEO is the outcome of proper marketing. Still, it’s proper marketing with a specific focus: increasing the likelihood of being recommended by AI. The future of visibility SEO has always been about optimization. GEO is about promotion – building and distributing enough credible, distinctive information about your business that an AI can recognize it as a trusted source. The techniques look familiar: PR, branding, copywriting, partnerships, directories, and reviews. The difference lies in intent. You’re not feeding a search engine – you’re training an intelligence. This requires a new mindset. You’re no longer optimizing for human users who type short queries into Google. You’re optimizing for a probabilistic model that interprets human intent across millions of contexts. It doesn’t care about your title tags. It cares about whether you look like the right answer to a real problem. GEO is both exciting and humbling. It reconnects brand marketing and search after years of false division, and reminds us that while the tools evolve, the fundamentals endure. You still need to be known, available, and distinctive. And now your audience includes machines that think like humans but learn on their own terms. Back to fundamentals, forward with AI GEO is a return to marketing fundamentals seen through a new lens. Businesses still grow by increasing availability. Consumers still buy from the brands they notice and can easily access. What has changed is the mediator: AI has become the primary distributor of attention. Your task as a marketer is to make your brand’s performance attributes, category entry points, and distinctive assets visible in the data that AI consumes. The goal hasn’t changed – to be chosen. Only the mechanics are new. Because in the age of AI, the only brands that matter are the ones the machines remember. View the full article

Measuring impact creates happier teams, better clients, and a stronger profession. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

Measuring impact creates happier teams, better clients, and a stronger profession. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

Amazon ushered in a new era for television advertising when it converted Prime Video into an ad-supported experience by default in 2024. By the middle of this year, some 130 million U.S. viewers were on Prime Video’s ad tier, watching between four and six minutes of ads per hour, according to an Adweek report. The move is part of the company’s long-term plan to dominate television advertising as viewership shifts from traditional broadcast and cable TV to streaming platforms. “The digital advertising landscape is rapidly evolving with streaming TV becoming mainstream,” says Kelly MacLean, VP of Amazon DSP, the company’s ad-buying platform. Under MacLean, Amazon’s been rolling out a slew of adtech tools to help businesses of all sizes reach viewers on Prime Video and even streaming rivals, including Netflix, NBCUniversal, and Disney. Amazon’s also helping with the creative side: It introduced an AI-powered video generator earlier this year that allows advertisers to easily create their own spots. Amazon’s investments are paying off. For the past decade, the company’s cloud-computing arm, AWS, has been the engine powering Amazon’s dominance. AWS brought in $91 billion in revenue in the first nine months of 2025, up 18% year over year. Amazon Ads is shaping up to be the next juggernaut: It’s taken in $47 billion so far this year, and grew 24% last quarter. Jay Richman, Amazon’s vice president of creative experiences, says Amazon operates one of “the most vast and sprawling ad networks on the planet.” Amazon is now preparing to turn this sprawling network into a well-oiled machine with the help of generative AI. At its annual unBoxed conference, which is being held this week in Nashville, Amazon is unveiling a suite of agentic AI tools that will do everything from brainstorm creative concepts and produce video ads to advise advertisers of all sizes on where to place the finished campaigns for the most impact. The result, says Richman, is “taking an advertising process that traditionally requires weeks of work and significant financial investment and transforming it into something that can be accomplished within a few hours at no additional cost to advertisers.” Here’s a look at what’s coming. Unifying the streaming ad market Though other major tech companies, including Google and Meta, have been integrating AI in their advertising products to make certain tasks easier for ad buyers, Amazon is unique in positioning its DSP platform as the go-to place for buying television ads. Over the past two years, Amazon Ads has secured partnerships with major publishers including Netflix, Paramount, Fox Corp, NBCUniversal, Disney, and Roku, allowing advertisers to gain access to the partners’ inventory. The Disney and Roku partnerships were announced just in time for Cannes this past summer. In September, Amazon and Netflix announced a plan to offer programmatic buying on Netflix’s Ads Plan. MacLean says that Amazon has been able to notch deals with every major streamer—even its rivals—because it’s adding value for them through capabilities like Amazon Cloud Publisher, a service that helps streamers and others use Amazon’s data to make their ad inventory more valuable. Even as Amazon creates new tech and services to help publishers, it’s making it easier for a wide range of advertisers—from big brands to small businesses—to start running ads. And that begins by offering them a unified platform. Behind the scenes, MacLean’s team has rebuilt the backend of Amazon’s ad platform to allow advertisers to buy targeted spots not on Amazon’s own properties and across the wider internet. MacLean says that Amazon is using AI to harness the “trillions of signals” it has about consumers’ shopping and viewing habits to help target the right people at the right time and on the right platform. “A lot of advertisers are just dealing with mass fragmentation,” MacLean says. “They’re duplicating who they’re reaching. They’re wasting media dollars. So our focus has been on how to innovate and help marketers through these challenges, making it easier to distribute their ad spend in a way that can reach the right users.” Introducing AI agents Amazon is showcasing its next slate of tools and services for digital and video advertisers at unBoxed this week. One of the new features is Campaign Manager, which unifies the ads console and Amazon DSP into an individual media buying tool, allowing advertisers of all sizes to manage their campaigns through one entry point. But the most groundbreaking new features take the form of agentic AI. The company has a new Creative Agent tool that will be integrated into the unified Amazon Ads console. Advertisers will be able to summon the tool via chat to make streaming and sponsored ads for television and elsewhere. Using natural language prompts, advertisers can ask the Creative Agent to conduct audience research, brainstorm concepts and create storyboards, and even produce display and video ads using generative AI. “This is truly game-changing for the industry, allowing mid-market and small brands to design creative ad campaigns and professional-quality advertisements that were previously only accessible to large brands with substantial resources,” Richman says. Once those ads are complete, Amazon’s new Ads Agent tool, which can be accessed via a chat window throughout the Amazon Ads platform, offers recommendations on how advertisers can improve the efficacy of their campaigns. An advertiser, for example, could upload a custom media plan and let the tool configure all the campaign structures and the ad groups—or let it optimize all of the advertiser’s campaigns at scale using only natural language. “The goal for every brand is reaching the right people wherever they are and having compelling ads that drive those business results,” MacLean says. “But with our vast offerings, we’ve heard from customers that they also need a more streamlined process.” The Ads Agent tool is designed to be the specialist that can help simplify everything. Other products Amazon announced include Full-Funnel Campaigns, an agentic AI tool that will make advertising easier to launch and manage across multiple channels and formats, and sponsored product videos, which let advertisers showcase products within the Amazon store. Unlike traditional short video ads, these product videos will offer deeper demonstrations and highlight key features. Customers can browse between videos, skip to specific sections, and click through to the product detail page on Amazon for more information—creating a more interactive and personalized shopping experience. “The goal is to provide shoppers more information at a glance than is possible today with just static product shots,” Richman says. MacLean says that the ultimate goal with all these tools is to make Amazon Ads “the best place” to buy advertising. “We’re going to continue to simplify, automate, and drive performance,” she says. Amazon, it seems, is becoming the everything store for advertisers. 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 is not killing off schema...View the full article

It’s up to the U.S. Supreme Court and Congress to decide when full payments will resume under the SNAP food aid program that helps 1 in 8 Americans buy groceries, as some wonder how they will feed their families without government assistance. The Supreme Court is expected to rule Tuesday on a request from President Donald The President’s administration to keep blocking states from providing full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, arguing the money might be needed elsewhere. The seesawing rulings mean that beneficiaries in some states, including Hawaii and New Jersey, have received their full monthly allocations while in others, such as Nebraska and West Virginia, they have received nothing. The legal wrangling could be moot if the U.S. House adopts and The President signs legislation to quickly end the federal government shutdown. An urgent need for beneficiaries The cascading legal rulings — plus the varying responses of each state to the shutoff — means people who rely on SNAP are in vastly different situations. Some have all their benefits, some have none. In states including North Carolina and Texas, beneficiaries have received partial amounts. In Pennsylvania, full November benefits went out to some people on Friday. But Jim Malliard, 41, of Franklin, said he had not received anything by Monday. Malliard is a full-time caretaker for his wife, who is blind and has had several strokes this year, and his teenage daughter, who suffered severe medical complications from surgery last year. That stress has only been compounded by the pause in the $350 monthly SNAP payment he previously received for himself, his wife and daughter. He said he is down to $10 in his account and is relying on what’s left in the pantry — mostly rice and ramen. “It’s kind of been a lot of late nights, making sure I had everything down to the penny to make sure I was right,” Malliard said. “To say anxiety has been my issue for the past two weeks is putting it mildly.” The political wrangling in Washington has shocked many Americans, and some have been moved to help. “I figure that I’ve spent money on dumber stuff than trying to feed other people during a manufactured famine,” said Ashley Oxenford, a teacher who set out a “little food pantry” in her front yard this week for vulnerable neighbors in Carthage, New York. SNAP has been the center of an intense fight in court The The President administration chose to cut off SNAP funding after October due to the shutdown. That decision sparked lawsuits and a string of swift and contradictory judicial rulings that deal with government power — and impact food access for some 42 million Americans. The administration went along with two rulings on Oct. 31 by judges who said the government must provide at least partial funding for SNAP. It eventually said recipients would get up to 65% of their regular benefits. But it balked last week when one of the judges said it must fund the program fully for November, even if that means digging into funds the government said need to be maintained in case of emergencies elsewhere. The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to pause that order. An appeals court said Monday that full funding should resume, and that requirement is set to kick in Tuesday night unless the top court takes action again. Congressional talks about reopening government The U.S. Senate on Monday passed legislation to reopen the federal government with a plan that would include replenishing SNAP funds. Speaker Mike Johnson told members of the House to return to Washington to consider the deal a small group of Senate Democrats made with Republicans. The President has not said whether he would sign it if it reaches his desk, but told reporters at the White House on Sunday that it “looks like we’re getting close to the shutdown ending.” If the deal is finalized, it’s not clear how quickly SNAP benefits might start flowing. Still, the The President administration said in a Supreme Court filing Monday that it shouldn’t be up to the courts. “The answer to this crisis is not for federal courts to reallocate resources without lawful authority,” Solicitor General D. John Sauer said in the papers. “The only way to end this crisis — which the Executive is adamant to end — is for Congress to reopen the government.” Associated Press reporter Cara Anna in Carthage, New York, contributed. —Geoff Mulvihill and Margery Beck, Associated Press View the full article

What once made its sovereign states powerful and rich could now be a barrier to their remaining soView the full article

To excel in sales skills training, you need to master five fundamental techniques that can markedly improve your effectiveness. Comprehending product benefits and customer needs is vital, as is developing active listening and empathy to build trust. Furthermore, you must emphasize adaptability in a dynamic market and focus on cultivating strong relationships for long-term engagement. Finally, incorporating effective communication and negotiation strategies will further raise your performance. Discover how each technique can transform your approach. Key Takeaways Focus on understanding product features and customer benefits to tailor sales pitches effectively. Develop active listening and empathy skills to build trust and enhance customer relationships. Emphasize adaptability and continuous learning to thrive in a dynamic sales environment. Foster strong relationships through personalized engagement and high-quality service for long-term customer retention. Incorporate effective communication and negotiation strategies to improve closure rates and handle objections confidently. Understanding Product Benefits and Customer Needs To effectively sell, you must understand not just your product’s features but likewise how those features translate into benefits for your customers. This comprehension is essential during professional selling skills training. By identifying specific customer pain points, you can tailor your sales pitch to address their needs directly. Statistics reveal that 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities. A strong grasp of product benefits allows you to articulate clear value propositions, which can boost retention rates by 25%-60%. Training should emphasize the difference between features and benefits, ensuring you connect product attributes to customer desires. Regularly updating your product knowledge based on customer feedback and market trends keeps you relevant and effective in meeting evolving expectations. Developing Active Listening and Empathy Skills Active listening and empathy are crucial skills in sales that can greatly improve your ability to connect with customers. Research shows that active listening boosts sales effectiveness by 70%, as it requires you to fully concentrate on the speaker. In addition, empathy helps you comprehend customer needs, nurturing trust that can lead to a 50% increase in customer retention. During sales skills training, practice reflective listening techniques, like paraphrasing customer statements, to clarify comprehension and avoid miscommunications. Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversations, revealing valuable insights about customer preferences. By enhancing these skills, you can expect a 25% improvement in team performance metrics, making active listening and empathy critical components of successful sales strategies. Emphasizing Adaptability in a Dynamic Market In today’s fast-paced sales environment, being adaptable isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential for success. As a sales professional, you must adjust your strategies to align with dynamic market conditions. With 68% of buyers valuing problem-solving abilities, demonstrating adaptability can set you apart. The ever-changing terrain, driven by increased customer knowledge and technology, demands continuous refinement of your approach. You’ll find that 59% of top performers benefit from ongoing coaching, reinforcing the importance of adaptability in the sales training process. Embracing new methodologies and tools is critical since companies that prioritize adaptability often outpace competitors. Building Strong Relationships for Long-term Engagement Strong relationships serve as the foundation for long-term customer engagement and business success. By honing your professional selling skills, you can build trust and improve interactions. Remember, 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities; this boosts their trust in you. Establish rapport through active listening and empathy, which leads to higher satisfaction and loyalty. Providing high-quality service and prompt follow-up can differentiate you from competitors, nurturing lasting relationships. Regular communication and networking keep these connections strong, opening doors for referrals and repeat business. Focus on comprehending your customers’ needs and preferences through personalized engagement. This approach not just boosts retention rates but additionally drives revenue growth for your business, ensuring sustainable success. Incorporating Effective Communication and Negotiation Strategies Building strong relationships with customers is just the beginning; effective communication and negotiation strategies are crucial for enhancing those connections. In your sales strategy training, focus on active listening to fully understand customer needs, which can increase sales performance by 20-25%. Incorporate open-ended questions during conversations, encouraging deeper engagement and gathering insights for customized solutions. When negotiating, aim for mutually beneficial outcomes, improving closure rates by up to 30% by promoting collaboration and trust. Enhancing emotional intelligence through training helps you empathize with customers, a quality appreciated by 68% of buyers. Role-playing negotiation scenarios can markedly boost your confidence and effectiveness, with practitioners reporting a 70% improvement in handling objections and closing deals compared to traditional methods. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Essential Selling Skills Every Sales Person Should Know? Every salesperson should master seven important skills: product knowledge, which allows you to explain features and benefits clearly; active listening, to understand customer needs; and persuasiveness, which helps influence decisions ethically. Furthermore, time management is critical for prioritizing tasks, whereas negotiation skills enable you to find common ground. Finally, adaptability is essential for adjusting your approach based on customer feedback, ensuring you meet various challenges effectively in a dynamic sales environment. What Are the Five Methods of Sales Training? You can improve your sales skills through five effective training methods. First, instructor-led training encourages group discussions and immediate feedback. Second, role-playing lets you practice in realistic scenarios. Third, online training modules provide flexibility and improve retention rates considerably. Fourth, workshops and seminars focus on specific skills, offering hands-on experience. Finally, on-the-job training allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings as you receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Which Skill Is Essential for a Successful Salesperson? A vital skill for a successful salesperson is effective communication. You need to articulate your value propositions clearly and cultivate trust with customers. Active listening is likewise important; it helps you understand customer needs, setting you apart from competitors. Furthermore, being persuasive can greatly improve your closing rates, whereas emotional intelligence allows for better relationships. Finally, adaptability enables you to respond effectively to market changes, ensuring long-term success in sales. Which Method Is Effective for Improving Sales Training? An effective method for improving sales training is a blended learning approach, combining in-person and virtual sessions. This method boosts retention rates considerably. Furthermore, role-playing and simulation-based training help you practice real-life scenarios, enhancing your confidence. Continuous feedback and coaching are essential, as nearly 60% of top performers benefit from regular guidance. Setting SMART goals provides clear direction, whereas reviewing training programs based on team feedback keeps the content relevant and effective. Conclusion Incorporating these five crucial techniques into your sales skills training can lead to significant improvements in your performance. By grasping product benefits, developing active listening, emphasizing adaptability, building strong relationships, and perfecting communication and negotiation strategies, you can better meet customer needs and respond to market changes. This all-encompassing approach not just improves sales effectiveness but additionally nurtures lasting customer engagement, driving overall success in your sales efforts. Focus on these areas to boost your skills and results. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Essential Techniques for Sales Skills Training Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

To excel in sales skills training, you need to master five fundamental techniques that can markedly improve your effectiveness. Comprehending product benefits and customer needs is vital, as is developing active listening and empathy to build trust. Furthermore, you must emphasize adaptability in a dynamic market and focus on cultivating strong relationships for long-term engagement. Finally, incorporating effective communication and negotiation strategies will further raise your performance. Discover how each technique can transform your approach. Key Takeaways Focus on understanding product features and customer benefits to tailor sales pitches effectively. Develop active listening and empathy skills to build trust and enhance customer relationships. Emphasize adaptability and continuous learning to thrive in a dynamic sales environment. Foster strong relationships through personalized engagement and high-quality service for long-term customer retention. Incorporate effective communication and negotiation strategies to improve closure rates and handle objections confidently. Understanding Product Benefits and Customer Needs To effectively sell, you must understand not just your product’s features but likewise how those features translate into benefits for your customers. This comprehension is essential during professional selling skills training. By identifying specific customer pain points, you can tailor your sales pitch to address their needs directly. Statistics reveal that 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities. A strong grasp of product benefits allows you to articulate clear value propositions, which can boost retention rates by 25%-60%. Training should emphasize the difference between features and benefits, ensuring you connect product attributes to customer desires. Regularly updating your product knowledge based on customer feedback and market trends keeps you relevant and effective in meeting evolving expectations. Developing Active Listening and Empathy Skills Active listening and empathy are crucial skills in sales that can greatly improve your ability to connect with customers. Research shows that active listening boosts sales effectiveness by 70%, as it requires you to fully concentrate on the speaker. In addition, empathy helps you comprehend customer needs, nurturing trust that can lead to a 50% increase in customer retention. During sales skills training, practice reflective listening techniques, like paraphrasing customer statements, to clarify comprehension and avoid miscommunications. Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversations, revealing valuable insights about customer preferences. By enhancing these skills, you can expect a 25% improvement in team performance metrics, making active listening and empathy critical components of successful sales strategies. Emphasizing Adaptability in a Dynamic Market In today’s fast-paced sales environment, being adaptable isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential for success. As a sales professional, you must adjust your strategies to align with dynamic market conditions. With 68% of buyers valuing problem-solving abilities, demonstrating adaptability can set you apart. The ever-changing terrain, driven by increased customer knowledge and technology, demands continuous refinement of your approach. You’ll find that 59% of top performers benefit from ongoing coaching, reinforcing the importance of adaptability in the sales training process. Embracing new methodologies and tools is critical since companies that prioritize adaptability often outpace competitors. Building Strong Relationships for Long-term Engagement Strong relationships serve as the foundation for long-term customer engagement and business success. By honing your professional selling skills, you can build trust and improve interactions. Remember, 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities; this boosts their trust in you. Establish rapport through active listening and empathy, which leads to higher satisfaction and loyalty. Providing high-quality service and prompt follow-up can differentiate you from competitors, nurturing lasting relationships. Regular communication and networking keep these connections strong, opening doors for referrals and repeat business. Focus on comprehending your customers’ needs and preferences through personalized engagement. This approach not just boosts retention rates but additionally drives revenue growth for your business, ensuring sustainable success. Incorporating Effective Communication and Negotiation Strategies Building strong relationships with customers is just the beginning; effective communication and negotiation strategies are crucial for enhancing those connections. In your sales strategy training, focus on active listening to fully understand customer needs, which can increase sales performance by 20-25%. Incorporate open-ended questions during conversations, encouraging deeper engagement and gathering insights for customized solutions. When negotiating, aim for mutually beneficial outcomes, improving closure rates by up to 30% by promoting collaboration and trust. Enhancing emotional intelligence through training helps you empathize with customers, a quality appreciated by 68% of buyers. Role-playing negotiation scenarios can markedly boost your confidence and effectiveness, with practitioners reporting a 70% improvement in handling objections and closing deals compared to traditional methods. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Essential Selling Skills Every Sales Person Should Know? Every salesperson should master seven important skills: product knowledge, which allows you to explain features and benefits clearly; active listening, to understand customer needs; and persuasiveness, which helps influence decisions ethically. Furthermore, time management is critical for prioritizing tasks, whereas negotiation skills enable you to find common ground. Finally, adaptability is essential for adjusting your approach based on customer feedback, ensuring you meet various challenges effectively in a dynamic sales environment. What Are the Five Methods of Sales Training? You can improve your sales skills through five effective training methods. First, instructor-led training encourages group discussions and immediate feedback. Second, role-playing lets you practice in realistic scenarios. Third, online training modules provide flexibility and improve retention rates considerably. Fourth, workshops and seminars focus on specific skills, offering hands-on experience. Finally, on-the-job training allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings as you receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Which Skill Is Essential for a Successful Salesperson? A vital skill for a successful salesperson is effective communication. You need to articulate your value propositions clearly and cultivate trust with customers. Active listening is likewise important; it helps you understand customer needs, setting you apart from competitors. Furthermore, being persuasive can greatly improve your closing rates, whereas emotional intelligence allows for better relationships. Finally, adaptability enables you to respond effectively to market changes, ensuring long-term success in sales. Which Method Is Effective for Improving Sales Training? An effective method for improving sales training is a blended learning approach, combining in-person and virtual sessions. This method boosts retention rates considerably. Furthermore, role-playing and simulation-based training help you practice real-life scenarios, enhancing your confidence. Continuous feedback and coaching are essential, as nearly 60% of top performers benefit from regular guidance. Setting SMART goals provides clear direction, whereas reviewing training programs based on team feedback keeps the content relevant and effective. Conclusion Incorporating these five crucial techniques into your sales skills training can lead to significant improvements in your performance. By grasping product benefits, developing active listening, emphasizing adaptability, building strong relationships, and perfecting communication and negotiation strategies, you can better meet customer needs and respond to market changes. This all-encompassing approach not just improves sales effectiveness but additionally nurtures lasting customer engagement, driving overall success in your sales efforts. Focus on these areas to boost your skills and results. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Essential Techniques for Sales Skills Training Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Marketing leaders need to stop funding SEO for clicks and start designing budgets around brand authority in AI-first search. The post Budget SEO For Capacity, Not Output appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Having previously been tested as an experimental flag, Google Chrome's Split View feature is now rolling out in the stable version of the browser (version 142). It doesn't seem to be live for everyone at the same time, but some people are seeing it. (I've got it in Chrome on my Mac, but not yet on Windows.) To check you're on the latest version of Chrome, click the three dots (top right) in a browser tab, then choose Settings and About Chrome. If an update is available, it'll be downloaded, and you can restart your browser to apply it. If you're running the latest version of Chrome and still don't see Split View, you can either wait for the feature to reach you or switch the flag on. Type "chrome://flags/#side-by-side" into your browser address bar and hit Enter, then enable the feature and restart your browser. You should then have Split View. It works exactly as you might guess from the name: Split View enables you to have two sites or apps open in the same tab, so you can, for example, dive deep into a Lifehacker article while also keeping an eye on social media. It works much better than just having two Chrome windows up side-by-side in Windows or macOS. How to create a Split ViewThere are a couple of ways to create a Split View. One is to right-click on a tab header and then choose Add tab to new split view from the menu that pops up: The selected tab takes up one half of the Chrome window, and in the other half you can choose another open tab (if there aren't any other open tabs, you'll see the New Tab page). The other method is to click and drag an open tab (using its header), or a web link, to the far left or far right of another tab—you should then see a small space open, with a Create split view label. Getting the dragging and positioning right can take a bit of practice, but once you get the hang of it, it's pretty straightforward. Look for a new Split View feature in Chrome. Credit: Lifehacker After that, the split tab works more or less like any other normal tab. You can drag it into a different position or into a different window, and you can right-click on it to access the tab options (for muting or pinning, for example). The split view tab will have two small "x" icons on it, for closing either half of the tab separately—to close them both, right-click on the tab and choose Close. Whenever you're in a split tab, you'll see a new icon on the Chrome toolbar, which you can click to access related features: You can separate the two views, close the left or the right view, or swap the views over from this toolbar button. The same options are available if you right-click on the Split View tab header. How you can use Split ViewSplit view can help any time you need two webpages or web apps on screen at once. One of Google's own suggestions is keeping a document open while you're on a video call, so you can make notes more easily. It's going to work well for any kind of research or note-taking where you're looking something up and then having to write about it. It may also be less than ideal for our attention spans, because you can load up a video on one half of your Split View, and then scroll through social media on the other half. Two sites open in Split View. Credit: Lifehacker You can adjust the sizes of each pane by dragging the divider in the middle, though you are limited overall by the size of the Chrome window. You're also able to switch to different websites within a Split View by typing into the address bar as normal—just make sure you've selected the right half of the pane first. The same sort of effect has long been possible in Windows and macOS by snapping two Chrome windows to each side of the screen, but there's something more convenient and straightforward about having two pages up in the same tab. I can see this being something I make use of a lot, especially on an ultrawide monitor. View the full article

The Senate passed legislation Monday to reopen the government, bringing the longest shutdown in history closer to an end as a small group of Democrats ratified a deal with Republicans despite searing criticism from within their party. The 41-day shutdown could last a few more days as members of the House, which has been on recess since mid-September, return to Washington to vote on the legislation. President Donald The President has signaled support for the bill, saying Monday that “we’re going to be opening up our country very quickly.” The final Senate vote, 60-40, broke a grueling stalemate that lasted more than six weeks as Democrats demanded that Republicans negotiate with them to extend health care tax credits that expire Jan. 1. The Republicans never did, and five moderate Democrats eventually switched their votes as federal food aid was delayed, airport delays worsened and hundreds of thousands of federal workers continued to go unpaid. House Speaker Mike Johnson urged lawmakers to start returning to Washington “right now” given shutdown-related travel delays, but an official notice issued after the Senate vote said the earliest the House will vote is Wednesday afternoon. “It appears our long national nightmare is finally coming to an end,” said Johnson, who has kept the House out of session since mid-September, when the House passed a bill to continue government funding. How the stalemate ended After weeks of negotiations, A group of three former governors — New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, New Hampshire Sen. Maggie Hassan and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine — agreed to vote to advance three bipartisan annual spending bills and extend the rest of government funding until late January. Republicans promised to hold a vote to extend the health care subsidies by mid-December, but there was no guarantee of success. Shaheen said Monday that “this was the option on the table” after Republicans had refused to budge. “We had reached a point where I think a number of us believed that the shutdown had been very effective in raising the concern about health care,” she said, and the promise for a future vote “gives us an opportunity to continue to address that going forward.” The legislation includes a reversal of the mass firings of federal workers by the The President administration since the shutdown began on Oct. 1. It also protects federal workers against further layoffs through January and guarantees they are paid once the shutdown is over. In addition to Shaheen, King and Hassan, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, home to tens of thousands of federal workers, also voted Sunday in favor of moving forward on the agreement. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the No. 2 Democrat, Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman and Nevada Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen also voted yes. All other Democrats, including Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York, voted against it. The moderates had expected a larger number of Democrats to vote with them as 10 to 12 Democratic senators had been part of the negotiations. But in the end, only five switched their votes — the exact number that Republicans needed. King, Cortez Masto and Fetterman had already been voting to open the government since Oct. 1. Many Democrats call the vote a “mistake” Schumer, who received blowback from his party in March when he voted to keep the government open, said he could not “in good faith” support it after meeting with his caucus for more than two hours on Sunday. “We will not give up the fight,” Schumer said, adding that Democrats have now “sounded the alarm” on health care. Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who caucuses with the Democrats, said giving up the fight was a “horrific mistake.” Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., agreed, saying that voters who overwhelmingly supported Democrats in last week’s elections were urging them to “hold firm.” House Democrats swiftly criticized the Senate. Texas Rep. Greg Casar, the chairman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said a deal that doesn’t reduce health care costs is a “betrayal” of millions of Americans who are counting on Democrats to fight. Others gave Schumer a nod of support. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries had criticized Schumer in March after his vote to keep the government open. But he praised the Senate Democratic leader on Monday and expressed support for his leadership throughout the shutdown. “The American people know we are on the right side of this fight,” Jeffries said Monday, pointing to Tuesday’s election results. Health care debate ahead It’s unclear whether the two parties would be able to find any common ground on the health care subsidies before a promised December vote in the Senate. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has said he will not commit to bringing it up in his chamber. On Monday, Johnson said House Republicans have always been open to voting to reform what he called the “unaffordable care act” but again did not say if they would vote on the subsidies. Some Republicans have said they are open to extending the COVID-19-era tax credits as premiums could skyrocket for millions of people, but they also want new limits on who can receive the subsidies. Some argue that the tax dollars for the plans should be routed through individuals. Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Susan Collins said Monday that she’s supportive of extending the tax credits with changes, like new income caps. Some Democrats have signaled they could be open to that idea. “We do need to act by the end of the year, and that is exactly what the majority leader has promised,” Collins said. Other Republicans, including The President, have used the debate to renew their yearslong criticism of the law and called for it to be scrapped or overhauled. In a possible preview, the Senate voted 47-53 along party lines Monday not to extend the subsidies for a year. Majority Republicans allowed the vote as part of a separate deal with Democrats to speed up votes and send the legislation to the House. Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim, Michelle Price and Stephen Groves contributed to this report. —Mary Clare Jalonick, Lisa Mascaro and Kevin Freking, Associated Press View the full article