ResidentialBusiness

Layoffs. Corporate restructuring. Leadership changes. New market strategy. Chances are that you’ll go through at least one significant company upheaval in your career (if not more than one). Employees are expected to adapt quickly, often with little support. While you may not be able to prevent internal changes, you can be prepared—and protect yourself. Get clarification on your job responsibilities One of the biggest impacts on your day-to-day might be changes in your job responsibilities. As soon as possible, you’ll want to discuss any changes with your boss. Ask directly, “Do I have any new responsibilities?” and “How will my performance be evaluated now?” Get the information in writing, if you can, even if it’s just a follow-up email you send after a discussion with your boss that says: “Based on our conversation, I understand that my role now includes X, Y, and Z.” You don’t want responsibility changes to be overlooked or misunderstood, and you don’t want the changes to negatively impact promotions or future raises simply because no one fully understands your role. Provide regular updates to your boss about how you’re handling your new responsibilities, and share any wins. Additionally, make sure your boss is aware of any concerns you may have. For example, you may not have been given proper training to make you successful with your new responsibilities. If something is unclear, raising concerns early shows you want to ensure you’re meeting expectations. Know your boundaries “Do more with less” has become the default expectation. You might quickly find yourself overwhelmed if you’re working with a smaller team, a smaller budget, or a major strategy pivot. It’s much harder to set boundaries if you accept additional work initially and then try to walk it back later. When faced with upheaval and asked to do more, you can say, “Yes, I can take this on. Which of my other responsibilities should I de-prioritize?” You can also mentally set a boundary around the number of hours you’re willing to work. If you’re asked to go above that, it’s time to push back. You could say, “I’m at capacity this week. Can this wait until next week?” Remember that loyalty is often not reciprocal Significant changes need clear direction. A company’s leadership team should communicate why the changes were necessary and how the company expects to benefit. If that doesn’t happen, it’s a red flag. The changes might result in more problems—or can’t save the company from a downward spiral. Keep your guard up. Look for signs that the company might be in deeper trouble, such as undergoing frequent leadership turnover, having an unclear strategy, or experiencing a lack of communication. Change is hard and takes time to have an impact. But if it feels like things aren’t going well, keep your résumé updated and your LinkedIn profile polished. Make sure you have an exit plan, even if you’re not ready to leave immediately. The company will always protect its interests first. You should do the same. View the full article

A market analysis can help you stay competitive in your industry and find new opportunities for growth. View the full article

Ukrainian national is third person arrested and chargedView the full article

Discussions regard travel ban and asset freeze on finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and security minister Itamar Ben-GvirView the full article

UK retailer operations have been disrupted by April hackView the full article

Figure comes as Bank of England considers when to cut ratesView the full article

World’s top AI semiconductor maker says export controls have accelerated Chinese rivals’ advancesView the full article

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. My manager gets anxious about how I manage my time even though I never miss deadlines My supervisor often assigns me projects well in advance of when they’re due. The problem is, she quickly gets anxious after assigning me work and mentions it repeatedly and hovers around my desk to check my progress on it. She doesn’t ask about it; she just watches what I’m doing and gets increasingly irritated and anxious if I’m not dropping everything to do the task she assigned. For example, at this beginning of this week she assigned me a project of the sort I’ve completed many times in the past. I know exactly how long it takes me and even if I build in several extra hours for something odd going awry, I can easily complete it in less than two work days. I have spent the days since she assigned it working on a long-term project that isn’t due for several months with plans to start the project my supervisor assigned four days before it is due. I’ve told her this, but she seems deeply concerned that I won’t finish on time. I have consistently completed my work on time and I have given her no cause to think there is any reason to doubt that I’ll have this one done on time. I’d understand her anxiety if I had a history of not meeting deadlines or if I were goofing off, but I’m trying to stay in the flow of working on my long-term project for a few more days. Am I wrong to do this? Should I just drop everything to do her assignment even though I know I’ll have it completed well with in the desired time frame? Can you ask her about it? Name what you’re seeing and ask what’s up: “You’ve seemed concerned recently that I haven’t started projects right away, even though I always meet deadlines. Part of my satisfaction with my job comes from having some autonomy in how I plan my time, and I think you see that pay off in my always reliably turning work in on time. Do you see it differently?”… followed by, “If I’ve misunderstood a deadline or if it has changed, I’d of course want you to tell me, but otherwise I’m hoping you will trust me to continue turning work in on time even when I’m juggling it with other priorities.” Alternately: “Have I done something to make you worry that I won’t reliably meet deadlines? As far I know, I’ve never missed a deadline, so I want to ask that you give me space to show that I will continue to do that. Of course if that changes, I would expect you’d need to manage my work more closely, but so far I think my track record of not turning anything in late has earned me some autonomy in how I manage my time. But if there’s a piece of this that I’m missing, I definitely want to hear your feedback.” Related: my boss gives me deadlines and then gets annoyed when work isn’t finished early 2. I’m struggling with my ego after not getting promoted I have a question about checking my ego in a role I feel overqualified for. I’m in a job for which I have a lot of experience, and I think I would have been a shoo-in for a (modest) promotion had it not come to light that I am leaving in a few months to go back to school. The job is just an elevated version of my current role, including all the same tasks. A while back (before school was a factor), the organization chose not to open interviews for this position after someone left; they can flex the number of people who have this title and are choosing to constrict that number supposedly because they do not want to offend the people who have applied multiple times/were rejected/are not any more competent than they were last time they applied. (I have never applied before, having only been here for about 10 months, though that timeline for a promotion is not out of the ordinary and the pace/type of work means one can thoroughly demonstrate competence within this period.) There is a broad range of skill levels here, and though I pride myself on expressing a lot of praise and charitability on the outside, inside I have been finding it harder and harder to tamp down my judgmental thoughts when people conduct this job in a way that demonstrates a severe lack of critical thinking. I’m vocally supportive of alternative approaches to our work and can often find something to appreciate in how a coworker operates, even if it’s different than what I had in mind, but I feel like I’m being beat over the head with conduct that I find basically incorrect. I’m struggling to put this in perspective. I am leaving shortly, this should not matter, this job is not intrinsic to my identity — yet every day, multiple times a day, decisions are made that lack any strategy or nuance, and these decisions affect the rest of the team and the clients we serve, so the amount of patience required is significant. We’re a nonprofit social service agency so are spread thin in terms of the resources we have to support vulnerable people; these utterly inept decisions matter a lot. But I usually have strong work-life balance and good boundaries regarding how responsible I feel for our clients, so I think a lot of my frustration is based on ego. Why do I care? I should just focus on my own work, right? I’m in therapy, etc. and can mostly discern this is a personal issue. I know I need to work on letting go, but I’m struggling. I’m leaving soon, so I don’t think it makes sense to lobby for a promotion (right?), but that’s still a few months of learning to surrender this egoism. I think this could be a character-building experience and would love your help in making it such. I suspect you’re struggling because it seems self-evident to you that you were well-qualified for the promotion, certainly better qualified than some of the people currently in the job — and so it’s a blow to the ego to think that wasn’t recognized and rewarded. But the thing is, knowing you’re leaving in a few months would absolutely be a reason not to promote you in many organizations. It really could be nothing more than that. It doesn’t make sense for them to go through the work of processing the promotion when you’re on your way out the door, or to put in the work of acclimating you to the new role. Moreover, some promotions (especially ones where tasks don’t change) are in large part retention devices, and it doesn’t make sense for them to put resources into trying to retain you when you’ve already shared plans to leave in a few months. So I don’t think there’s even a huge lesson about checking your ego here; if anything, I think the lesson is just to be realistic about how employment works, and how the dynamics change once people know you’re about to leave. 3. Should I tell my boss it would be OK to lay me off? I work in higher ed, and our division was recently told to expect layoffs in the upcoming fiscal year, even in areas not directly funded by federal research dollars. I would honestly be fine with being laid off. My spouse is retiring this year, and I’ve been debating how much longer I want to keep working myself. Should I say something proactively? I know you’ve advised not saying anything about planning to leave a job before it’s official, but in this case, I’m not worried about not getting assigned juicy projects or anything like that. (If anything, I’d be glad to be assigned fewer projects, even if I don’t end up leaving!) This is the last job I plan to have, so I’m not worried about developing in my career at this point — I just want to focus on my core responsibilities. If it’s possible that I might leave during the next fiscal year anyway, do I have an ethical obligation to my teammates to say something now? I would feel terrible if the next thing I heard was that someone else on my team was being let go and thought that it could have been me instead. But I don’t want to make things awkward with my boss, either, since I still have to work with her every day, and I don’t want her feeling like I’m somehow less reliable because I could up and leave at any moment. If you’re absolutely sure that you would be okay with being laid off (and potentially sooner than you might be expecting it would happen), then yes — you are in one of the few situations where it makes sense to say something if you want to. (You’re still not obligated to, though, and especially if you’re not 100% sure.) If you do decide to, it doesn’t have to be an awkward conversation! It could be, “I don’t have any current plans to leave, but I do occasionally think about how much longer I want to keep working, and if you do need to cut someone on the team, I would be comfortable being the one picked.” That said, keep in mind that layoffs are often about cutting the most expendable position, not person, and there can be other factors too (like you’re capable of picking up additional activities X and Y, while someone else isn’t). But it’s a reasonable thing to offer. 4. My PIP ended 23 days ago and no one has said anything to me I have been dealing with an absolute chore of a manager who put me on a performance improvement plan (PIP) as a way to push me out of the company. I have tried to find new work, but have been unable to secure a new job, and have thus been very carefully and actively working towards completing the PIP. Well, it’s now 23 days past the 90-day mark … and no one has contacted me about next steps in any direction. Have you heard of this before? Does this invalidate anything on their end since they have so thoroughly dropped the ball to exemplify my point of “it’s not me, it’s her”? It’s not unusual for a PIP not be immediately dealt with at its deadline. It should be, and it’s unfair to leave the employee hanging and unsure what steps may be taken next. But it’s not uncommon for it to take longer. It doesn’t invalidate anything on their end or exempt you from any potential PIP-related consequences. If you didn’t think your manager was trying to push you out of the company and also felt you’d met the terms of the PIP, there could be an argument for asking about next steps. But since you think she wants you gone, I wouldn’t poke at it unless you find the not knowing worse than any potential consequences of refocusing her on it. Leave it to her to raise it if she wants to. 5. My dad is terminally ill and I’m about to start a new job My dad has terminal cancer and recently ended treatment to begin hospice care at home with my mom as his primary caregiver. My sibling and I are very close with them and help as much as we can, which our current employers and colleagues have been wonderful about supporting. We were given the “six months” speech, but his cancer is extremely aggressive so it’s very likely we have much less time. I’m starting a new job after Memorial Day with a boss I worked for at a previous company. It’s primarily a remote position with fairly strict working hours, camera-on meeting requirements, and occasional in-office presence required, all of which I thought were doable before we got the dreaded news. On top of all the other ways we’re struggling right now, I have no idea when or how to let my boss know what’s going on and what timeframe we’ve been given. When we started the process of bringing me onboard, Dad was still stable and seemed to be responding to treatment, but things changed very rapidly after I accepted the new position. My boss approached me directly for the open role and to my knowledge didn’t interview anyone else, so I know that he has a very high degree of confidence in me and expects me to be working at or above the same level as the last time we worked together. We’re both part of a loose social group of former colleagues who’ve become friends, even though my boss and I aren’t, so there’s a chance he knows my dad is sick but we didn’t discuss anything but work during the hiring process. I don’t normally share much personal stuff at work but this obviously isn’t something I’m going to be able to muddle my way through without telling anyone or asking for support. Any advice? Oh no, I’m so sorry about your dad. I went through something similar with my dad right after starting a new job, too. The only thing you can really do is to give your boss a heads-up about what’s going on and what it could potentially mean for your work (like that you might need to take time off to be with him without notice) or even just that you’re not really sure and are figuring it out as things go along. It’s definitely weird when you’ve just started a new job, but if these are decent people, they will rally to get you whatever flexibility you need. The post manager gets anxious about how I manage my time, telling my boss it would be OK to lay me off, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Move would pave the way for savers to access funds focused on corporate buyouts and other high-octane dealsView the full article

We track the roaring trade of mobiles grabbed in London and New York, then sold on a single district in ShenzhenView the full article

A prize aimed at cracking interspecies communication could make humans think differently about the welfare of other creaturesView the full article

Remains of 42 people found scattered on cartel ranch, highlighting crisis in which 120,000 people have disappearedView the full article

Top official Gita Gopinath warns over country’s ‘ever-increasing’ debt burdenView the full article

US broker that pioneered zero-commission share trading plans to disrupt the UK marketView the full article

A Norfolk campaign against the FTSE 250 company’s plans to raise more chickens and pigs may undermine food securityView the full article

Key Takeaways Convenience and Personalization: Amazon Registry allows users to create customized gift lists, simplifying the gifting process for special events or business launches. User-Friendly Features: The intuitive interface makes managing registries easy, enabling quick updates and effortless navigation without technical complications. Enhanced Customization: Users can showcase their brand identity through unique storefronts, utilizing A+ Content for improved product listings and higher conversion rates. Community Engagement: Features like group gifting encourage collaboration among supporters, fostering relationships and promoting brand loyalty. Strategic Marketing: Tailoring registries to match customer preferences empowers users to engage their target audience effectively and improve marketing outcomes. Growth Opportunities: Incorporating crowdfunding options in registries can enhance customer support and funding, driving business growth alongside traditional gifting. If you’re expecting a little one or planning a special event, creating an Amazon registry could be your best move. This convenient tool allows you to curate a personalized list of gifts, making it easy for friends and family to find exactly what you want. With a vast selection of products at your fingertips, you can tailor your registry to suit your unique style and needs. Navigating the world of gift registries can be overwhelming, but Amazon simplifies the process. You’ll discover user-friendly features that help you manage your selections effortlessly. Plus, with the added benefits of Amazon Prime, you can enjoy faster shipping and exclusive deals, making your registry experience even more rewarding. Let’s dive into how you can set up your Amazon registry and make the most of this fantastic service. Overview of Amazon Registry Amazon Registry offers a strategic tool for small business owners planning events or aiming to curate gift lists. The convenience of a personalized gift registry simplifies choices for guests while enhancing your brand visibility within your target audience. With Amazon’s user-friendly platform, you can list items that reflect your entrepreneurial vision, making it easy for friends and family to support your journey. Features like custom notes and universal registry options provide flexibility, allowing you to include products from other retailers alongside Amazon items. Leveraging Amazon Prime enhances the registry experience. You gain access to faster shipping and exclusive deals, which can boost customer acquisition and sales efficiency. This can be particularly advantageous for startups looking to create an impressive event or milestone launch. Consider how the simplicity of setting up an Amazon Registry aligns with your business goals. The process encourages engagement and offers both a gifting solution and promotional opportunity, allowing you to highlight your products or services directly to potential customers. Features of Amazon Registry Amazon Registry offers valuable features that enhance your experience as a small business owner. These functionalities not only simplify the management of your product listings but also promote brand visibility and engagement. User-Friendly Interface The user-friendly interface of Amazon Registry allows you to navigate its features with ease. You can quickly create and manage your registry and update product listings. The intuitive design facilitates task completion without technical complications, enabling you to focus more on your business model and essential operations. Customization Options Customization options in Amazon Registry provide you with significant control over your product presentation. You can create a unique storefront that aligns with your branding, showcasing your entrepreneurial vision. Utilizing A+ Content lets you add interactive elements like lifestyle images and charts, enhancing your product listings. This not only helps in customer acquisition but can also improve your conversion rates by 7-11%. These tailored options ensure that your registry reflects your brand’s identity while attracting your target audience. Benefits of Using Amazon Registry Using an Amazon registry streamlines your gift selection process, making it convenient for both you and your contributors. With a vast selection of products across multiple categories, finding items that align with your business goals becomes simple. Users can curate lists that reflect their entrepreneurial vision, aiding in targeted marketing efforts. You can easily manage and update your registry to showcase relevant items for various occasions, enhancing customer engagement. Gift Selection Process The gift selection process on Amazon Registry allows users to effortlessly browse items and add them to their lists. Once you’ve created your registry, explore available products and categorize them based on your needs. You can share your registry link with friends, family, or even customers, making it straightforward for them to choose gifts aligned with your objectives. The platform’s intuitive navigation ensures you save time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your small business. Group Gifting Group gifting provides an excellent way to consolidate resources for larger presents, which can be beneficial for your small business. Encourage collaboration among supporters who can contribute towards items that contribute to your company’s growth strategy. This ensures you receive gifts that significantly impact your enterprise, like quality equipment, marketing materials, or essential services. Group gifting enhances community involvement, solidifying relationships with your target audience while promoting brand loyalty. How to Set Up an Amazon Registry Setting up an Amazon registry provides a solid platform for your startup or small business to enhance customer engagement. Follow these steps to create an effective registry tailored for your business’s occasion. Step-by-Step Guide Navigate to ‘List and Gifting’ Log into your Amazon account and select ‘List and Gifting’ from the drop-down menu under ‘Accounts & Lists’. Select Your Occasion Choose the occasion for your registry, like a launch event, holiday sale, or promotional giveaway. If your event type doesn’t fit the standard options, select ‘other occasions’. Follow On-Screen Instructions Fill in required details, including: Your business name The name of your gift list The date of your celebration or promotion Your business address for shipping Your preferences for gift visibility Who can access your gift list Tips for Effective Registries Engage Your Target Audience Focus on your marketing strategy by tailoring your registry to match the interests of your target audience. Use data from market research to select items that resonate with customer preferences. Promote via Social Media Leverage your social media platforms to share your registry link. Utilize email marketing campaigns to inform your subscribers about the registry, encouraging collaborations and group gifting options. Utilize Amazon Features Take advantage of Amazon’s user-friendly tools to customize your registry. Use unique branding elements to reflect your business model, enhancing your visibility amongst competitors. Encourage Group Gifting Promote group gifting to foster community involvement and support your business goals. This strategy enables customers to contribute toward larger, impactful items that elevate your startup initiatives. Explore Funding Options Once your registry is set, consider adding a section for customers to support your business through crowdfunding opportunities. Align this effort with your growth strategy, emphasizing how their contributions bolster your success. By following these steps and tips, you’ll maximize the benefits of your Amazon registry, fostering customer relationships and driving your business forward. Conclusion Creating an Amazon registry can transform the way you approach gift-giving and business promotion. Whether you’re an expecting parent or a small business owner the platform offers a range of features that streamline the process and enhance engagement. By curating a personalized list you not only simplify the selection for your friends and family but also elevate your brand visibility. Utilizing the tools Amazon provides can help you connect with your audience in a meaningful way. Embrace the convenience and flexibility of the Amazon registry to achieve your gifting and business goals. With the right approach you can turn this opportunity into a powerful asset for both personal and professional growth. Frequently Asked Questions What is an Amazon registry? An Amazon registry is a personalized gift list created by individuals for special occasions such as baby showers, weddings, or business events. It allows friends and family to easily select and purchase gifts from a wide variety of products available on Amazon. How do I create an Amazon registry? To create an Amazon registry, log in to your Amazon account, go to the ‘List and Gifting’ section, choose the occasion, and fill in the required details like your registry name and gift preferences. Follow the prompts to add items and customize your registry. What are the benefits of Amazon Prime for registries? Amazon Prime offers several benefits for registries, including faster shipping, exclusive deals, and access to a wide range of products. Prime members can ensure their gift selections arrive quickly, enhancing the overall experience for both the gift-giver and recipient. Can small businesses use Amazon registry? Yes, small businesses can use Amazon registry to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. They can list products that reflect their entrepreneurial vision and utilize features like custom notes and universal registry options to connect with consumers. What is group gifting on Amazon registry? Group gifting allows multiple contributors to pool funds together to purchase a larger gift for the registry owner. This feature encourages community involvement and support, particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to invest in significant items. How can I promote my Amazon registry? To promote your Amazon registry, share the registry link on social media, engage with your audience through personalized messages, and encourage group gifting. Utilize the unique features of your registry to attract attention and create an engaging experience for potential contributors. What features can small business owners utilize? Small business owners can take advantage of Amazon registry’s user-friendly interface, customization options, and A+ Content to enhance their listings. These features help showcase their brand effectively, improve customer engagement, and drive sales. How does Amazon registry help streamline gift selection? Amazon registry simplifies the gift selection process by providing an intuitive platform where users can easily browse, categorize items, and share their registry with others. This convenience makes it easier for friends, family, and customers to find the perfect gift for the occasion. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Your Success with an Amazon Registry for Gifts and Small Business Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Convenience and Personalization: Amazon Registry allows users to create customized gift lists, simplifying the gifting process for special events or business launches. User-Friendly Features: The intuitive interface makes managing registries easy, enabling quick updates and effortless navigation without technical complications. Enhanced Customization: Users can showcase their brand identity through unique storefronts, utilizing A+ Content for improved product listings and higher conversion rates. Community Engagement: Features like group gifting encourage collaboration among supporters, fostering relationships and promoting brand loyalty. Strategic Marketing: Tailoring registries to match customer preferences empowers users to engage their target audience effectively and improve marketing outcomes. Growth Opportunities: Incorporating crowdfunding options in registries can enhance customer support and funding, driving business growth alongside traditional gifting. If you’re expecting a little one or planning a special event, creating an Amazon registry could be your best move. This convenient tool allows you to curate a personalized list of gifts, making it easy for friends and family to find exactly what you want. With a vast selection of products at your fingertips, you can tailor your registry to suit your unique style and needs. Navigating the world of gift registries can be overwhelming, but Amazon simplifies the process. You’ll discover user-friendly features that help you manage your selections effortlessly. Plus, with the added benefits of Amazon Prime, you can enjoy faster shipping and exclusive deals, making your registry experience even more rewarding. Let’s dive into how you can set up your Amazon registry and make the most of this fantastic service. Overview of Amazon Registry Amazon Registry offers a strategic tool for small business owners planning events or aiming to curate gift lists. The convenience of a personalized gift registry simplifies choices for guests while enhancing your brand visibility within your target audience. With Amazon’s user-friendly platform, you can list items that reflect your entrepreneurial vision, making it easy for friends and family to support your journey. Features like custom notes and universal registry options provide flexibility, allowing you to include products from other retailers alongside Amazon items. Leveraging Amazon Prime enhances the registry experience. You gain access to faster shipping and exclusive deals, which can boost customer acquisition and sales efficiency. This can be particularly advantageous for startups looking to create an impressive event or milestone launch. Consider how the simplicity of setting up an Amazon Registry aligns with your business goals. The process encourages engagement and offers both a gifting solution and promotional opportunity, allowing you to highlight your products or services directly to potential customers. Features of Amazon Registry Amazon Registry offers valuable features that enhance your experience as a small business owner. These functionalities not only simplify the management of your product listings but also promote brand visibility and engagement. User-Friendly Interface The user-friendly interface of Amazon Registry allows you to navigate its features with ease. You can quickly create and manage your registry and update product listings. The intuitive design facilitates task completion without technical complications, enabling you to focus more on your business model and essential operations. Customization Options Customization options in Amazon Registry provide you with significant control over your product presentation. You can create a unique storefront that aligns with your branding, showcasing your entrepreneurial vision. Utilizing A+ Content lets you add interactive elements like lifestyle images and charts, enhancing your product listings. This not only helps in customer acquisition but can also improve your conversion rates by 7-11%. These tailored options ensure that your registry reflects your brand’s identity while attracting your target audience. Benefits of Using Amazon Registry Using an Amazon registry streamlines your gift selection process, making it convenient for both you and your contributors. With a vast selection of products across multiple categories, finding items that align with your business goals becomes simple. Users can curate lists that reflect their entrepreneurial vision, aiding in targeted marketing efforts. You can easily manage and update your registry to showcase relevant items for various occasions, enhancing customer engagement. Gift Selection Process The gift selection process on Amazon Registry allows users to effortlessly browse items and add them to their lists. Once you’ve created your registry, explore available products and categorize them based on your needs. You can share your registry link with friends, family, or even customers, making it straightforward for them to choose gifts aligned with your objectives. The platform’s intuitive navigation ensures you save time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your small business. Group Gifting Group gifting provides an excellent way to consolidate resources for larger presents, which can be beneficial for your small business. Encourage collaboration among supporters who can contribute towards items that contribute to your company’s growth strategy. This ensures you receive gifts that significantly impact your enterprise, like quality equipment, marketing materials, or essential services. Group gifting enhances community involvement, solidifying relationships with your target audience while promoting brand loyalty. How to Set Up an Amazon Registry Setting up an Amazon registry provides a solid platform for your startup or small business to enhance customer engagement. Follow these steps to create an effective registry tailored for your business’s occasion. Step-by-Step Guide Navigate to ‘List and Gifting’ Log into your Amazon account and select ‘List and Gifting’ from the drop-down menu under ‘Accounts & Lists’. Select Your Occasion Choose the occasion for your registry, like a launch event, holiday sale, or promotional giveaway. If your event type doesn’t fit the standard options, select ‘other occasions’. Follow On-Screen Instructions Fill in required details, including: Your business name The name of your gift list The date of your celebration or promotion Your business address for shipping Your preferences for gift visibility Who can access your gift list Tips for Effective Registries Engage Your Target Audience Focus on your marketing strategy by tailoring your registry to match the interests of your target audience. Use data from market research to select items that resonate with customer preferences. Promote via Social Media Leverage your social media platforms to share your registry link. Utilize email marketing campaigns to inform your subscribers about the registry, encouraging collaborations and group gifting options. Utilize Amazon Features Take advantage of Amazon’s user-friendly tools to customize your registry. Use unique branding elements to reflect your business model, enhancing your visibility amongst competitors. Encourage Group Gifting Promote group gifting to foster community involvement and support your business goals. This strategy enables customers to contribute toward larger, impactful items that elevate your startup initiatives. Explore Funding Options Once your registry is set, consider adding a section for customers to support your business through crowdfunding opportunities. Align this effort with your growth strategy, emphasizing how their contributions bolster your success. By following these steps and tips, you’ll maximize the benefits of your Amazon registry, fostering customer relationships and driving your business forward. Conclusion Creating an Amazon registry can transform the way you approach gift-giving and business promotion. Whether you’re an expecting parent or a small business owner the platform offers a range of features that streamline the process and enhance engagement. By curating a personalized list you not only simplify the selection for your friends and family but also elevate your brand visibility. Utilizing the tools Amazon provides can help you connect with your audience in a meaningful way. Embrace the convenience and flexibility of the Amazon registry to achieve your gifting and business goals. With the right approach you can turn this opportunity into a powerful asset for both personal and professional growth. Frequently Asked Questions What is an Amazon registry? An Amazon registry is a personalized gift list created by individuals for special occasions such as baby showers, weddings, or business events. It allows friends and family to easily select and purchase gifts from a wide variety of products available on Amazon. How do I create an Amazon registry? To create an Amazon registry, log in to your Amazon account, go to the ‘List and Gifting’ section, choose the occasion, and fill in the required details like your registry name and gift preferences. Follow the prompts to add items and customize your registry. What are the benefits of Amazon Prime for registries? Amazon Prime offers several benefits for registries, including faster shipping, exclusive deals, and access to a wide range of products. Prime members can ensure their gift selections arrive quickly, enhancing the overall experience for both the gift-giver and recipient. Can small businesses use Amazon registry? Yes, small businesses can use Amazon registry to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. They can list products that reflect their entrepreneurial vision and utilize features like custom notes and universal registry options to connect with consumers. What is group gifting on Amazon registry? Group gifting allows multiple contributors to pool funds together to purchase a larger gift for the registry owner. This feature encourages community involvement and support, particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to invest in significant items. How can I promote my Amazon registry? To promote your Amazon registry, share the registry link on social media, engage with your audience through personalized messages, and encourage group gifting. Utilize the unique features of your registry to attract attention and create an engaging experience for potential contributors. What features can small business owners utilize? Small business owners can take advantage of Amazon registry’s user-friendly interface, customization options, and A+ Content to enhance their listings. These features help showcase their brand effectively, improve customer engagement, and drive sales. How does Amazon registry help streamline gift selection? Amazon registry simplifies the gift selection process by providing an intuitive platform where users can easily browse, categorize items, and share their registry with others. This convenience makes it easier for friends, family, and customers to find the perfect gift for the occasion. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Your Success with an Amazon Registry for Gifts and Small Business Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A new report from small business lender OnDeck, in partnership with document AI platform Ocrolus, finds that while small business owners remain largely optimistic about their growth potential, economic uncertainty is prompting many to take precautionary steps. According to the Small Business Cash Flow Trend Report, released on May 20, 2025, 93% of small businesses surveyed said they anticipate either significant or moderate growth in 2025. This figure reflects only a slight dip from the 94% who shared the same outlook in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, that optimism comes with increased caution. More than half of small businesses (55%) say they’ve already taken preemptive action in response to potential tariff changes, bracing for possible financial or operational disruptions. These actions include front-loading inventory and securing additional capital to stabilize cash flow. “The small business community is resilient, and we see them working hard to prepare themselves to weather certain environmental factors such as tariffs,” said Jim Granat, Co-President of Small Business at Enova. “Whether it’s additional capital needed for front-loading inventory or help with general cashflow demands, OnDeck is committed to supporting small businesses with accessible, transparent and dependable financing.” The report also shows a significant uptick in AI adoption, especially in marketing functions. Sixty-nine percent of respondents reported frequent use of artificial intelligence tools to assist with marketing-related tasks, a signal that digital transformation continues to take root among smaller enterprises. Meanwhile, the report highlights a notable shift in lending preferences. Seventy-six percent of businesses say they’re now bypassing traditional banks in favor of non-bank lenders, marking an all-time high in the survey’s history. This trend suggests small business owners are seeking more flexible and faster financing solutions in today’s rapidly shifting economic environment. “AI-powered analytics infrastructure enables lenders to evaluate real-time cash flow data to identify more qualified businesses and expand access to the capital they need to navigate uncertainty,” said David Snitkof, SVP of Growth at Ocrolus. The findings are based on responses from 437 small businesses with existing working capital loans, along with data from over 2 million small business applications submitted for working capital financing over the past 15 months. The survey was conducted nationwide between February 17–27, 2025. The full report, including detailed survey results, is available at ondeck.com/small-business-trends. OnDeck, part of Enova International (NYSE: ENVA), partnered with Ocrolus to produce the quarterly report. Together, the companies say they aim to provide actionable insights to help small businesses better understand their financial positions and plan accordingly. This article, "Small Businesses Show Cautious Optimism in Q1 Despite Tariff and Economic Concerns, OnDeck Report Finds" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A new report from small business lender OnDeck, in partnership with document AI platform Ocrolus, finds that while small business owners remain largely optimistic about their growth potential, economic uncertainty is prompting many to take precautionary steps. According to the Small Business Cash Flow Trend Report, released on May 20, 2025, 93% of small businesses surveyed said they anticipate either significant or moderate growth in 2025. This figure reflects only a slight dip from the 94% who shared the same outlook in the fourth quarter of 2024. However, that optimism comes with increased caution. More than half of small businesses (55%) say they’ve already taken preemptive action in response to potential tariff changes, bracing for possible financial or operational disruptions. These actions include front-loading inventory and securing additional capital to stabilize cash flow. “The small business community is resilient, and we see them working hard to prepare themselves to weather certain environmental factors such as tariffs,” said Jim Granat, Co-President of Small Business at Enova. “Whether it’s additional capital needed for front-loading inventory or help with general cashflow demands, OnDeck is committed to supporting small businesses with accessible, transparent and dependable financing.” The report also shows a significant uptick in AI adoption, especially in marketing functions. Sixty-nine percent of respondents reported frequent use of artificial intelligence tools to assist with marketing-related tasks, a signal that digital transformation continues to take root among smaller enterprises. Meanwhile, the report highlights a notable shift in lending preferences. Seventy-six percent of businesses say they’re now bypassing traditional banks in favor of non-bank lenders, marking an all-time high in the survey’s history. This trend suggests small business owners are seeking more flexible and faster financing solutions in today’s rapidly shifting economic environment. “AI-powered analytics infrastructure enables lenders to evaluate real-time cash flow data to identify more qualified businesses and expand access to the capital they need to navigate uncertainty,” said David Snitkof, SVP of Growth at Ocrolus. The findings are based on responses from 437 small businesses with existing working capital loans, along with data from over 2 million small business applications submitted for working capital financing over the past 15 months. The survey was conducted nationwide between February 17–27, 2025. The full report, including detailed survey results, is available at ondeck.com/small-business-trends. OnDeck, part of Enova International (NYSE: ENVA), partnered with Ocrolus to produce the quarterly report. Together, the companies say they aim to provide actionable insights to help small businesses better understand their financial positions and plan accordingly. This article, "Small Businesses Show Cautious Optimism in Q1 Despite Tariff and Economic Concerns, OnDeck Report Finds" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When we talk about decarbonizing industries, footwear doesn’t often steal the spotlight. Yet behind every pair of sneakers or boots is a complex web of supply chains, raw materials, energy consumption, and logistics. While our shoes leave physical footprints, they also leave behind a much larger, often invisible carbon and waste footprint. The footwear industry is estimated to be responsible for hundreds of millions of metric tons of CO₂e emissions each year—that’s more than the emissions of some entire countries. And it’s a sector undergoing massive transformation, fueled by a perfect storm of shifting regulation, growing consumer demand for transparency, and the urgent need to build climate resilience into business models. What’s exciting is that we’re finally starting to see momentum from both sides of the decarbonization equation: radical innovation and operational rigor. The innovation track: Rethink how shoes are made Innovation in footwear manufacturing has typically been focused on performance and aesthetics alone, but that’s evolving. Today, some of the most forward-thinking brands are applying that same creative energy to impact, tackling not just how to build better shoes for us but also how to build them better for the planet. A powerful example of this is On. The brand’s new LightSpray technology uses a world-first process that eliminates the traditional cut-and-sew approach to constructing shoe uppers. It reduces waste, energy, and materials, and, crucially, carbon. Using prospective life cycle assessment (LCA)—a highly scientific process that calculates the future environmental impact of a product or technology (based on projected data and scenarios)—it was found that LightSpray has the potential to reduce production emissions by about 75% compared to traditional techniques. So, what can we learn? This breakthrough matters not just for the brand itself, but for the entire industry. Globally, around 23.9 billion pairs of shoes are produced each year, and the majority of them still rely on traditional methods that contribute both to emissions and waste throughout the supply chain. Beyond footwear, what’s most notable isn’t just the number—it’s the willingness to build sustainability into innovation at the R&D phase, not as a post-launch add-on. That’s a shift in mindset that every industry can learn from. The infrastructure track: Build out data and processes that make change possible While innovation grabs headlines, what often moves the needle at scale is what happens behind the scenes. Infrastructure supports measurement, monitoring, and decision making. In footwear, where the indirect Scope 3 emissions coming from a company’s entire supply chain typically account for up to 90% of total footprint, the need for accurate, granular data is critical. That’s where brands like Axel Arigato are leading: not by launching one breakthrough product, but by laying the groundwork to reduce emissions across their entire value chain. Axel Arigato recently calculated its full corporate carbon footprint in addition to LCAs for over 270 of its products. This gives the brand visibility to identify impact hotspots and tools to make science-backed reductions—product by product, shipment by shipment, and decision by decision. The work enabled the brand to dive deep into understanding the impact of its products and business to a level of detail they have never gone into before. “We have always strived to produce products that are less impactful on the environment, and we can now confidently measure this and communicate about it to our consumers,” says Albin Johansson, CEO of Axel Arigato. This kind of backbone work isn’t all that flashy, but it is essential. Having a baseline understanding of the status quo enables all kinds of companies to move from ambition to action, and to do so in a way that’s resilient to legal requirements like reporting, investor pressure, and consumers shifting their expectations. It can even help provide the confidence to communicate impact publicly, in a world where green claims are heavily scrutinized Taking a step beyond footwear The race to decarbonize isn’t exclusive to footwear or the wider fashion industry. But it does cast a revealing lens thanks to its material-intensive, design-driven, and deeply globalized nature. With footwear revenue projected to surpass $472 billion by 2028 and sustainable footwear alone expected to nearly double to $18.25 billion by 2034, the stakes—and opportunities—have never been higher. Crucially, the industry is showing us what it looks like when innovation and infrastructure finally work together. Because, with net zero targets and legal requirements looming, one without the other isn’t enough anymore. A revolutionary new process can’t scale responsibly without solid measurement and validation. Just like a robust data system doesn’t drive progress unless it’s tied to product and design decisions. The future depends on both, and the businesses that are most future-proof are the ones willing to run down this dual track. So, whether you’re in footwear or finance, the lesson here is clear: Lower impact is not about sticking to one strategy for reduction. It’s a system-wide transformation that calls for imagination, precision, and bold partnership. Now, progress increasingly means fewer promises and more proof. And the sooner this double-edged strategy is scaled across industries, the better for our planet. Namrata Sandhu is founder and CEO of Vaayu. View the full article

In remarks at a Mortgage Bankers Association conference, the trade group's CEO also acknowledged the need for some guardrails to remain in place. View the full article

The size of typical bulk MSR deals trading has shrunk, according to panelists at the Mortgage Bankers Association's Secondary and Capital Markets Conference. View the full article

Today’s U.S. farmers and agricultural businesses are navigating a complex landscape, with unique near-term and long-term challenges that include intensified global competition, record trade deficits, rising costs, and more frequent and extreme weather events. These challenges have created economic instability across the entire agriculture sector with U.S. row crop farmer net income remaining persistently low for the third straight year. Estimates from the University of Illinois show that corn and soybean farmers could face a net loss of between $50 and $70 per acre this growing season. On top of this, global acreage has leveled off at 2.3 billion acres and the average yield for corn and soybeans has also slowed. This uncertainty affects not only those who grow our food but also reverberates throughout the entire food system, threatening the stability we all depend on. It’s clear that our sector must get off unpredictable commodity rollercoaster and create a more predictable future for farm families, agricultural businesses, consumers, and communities. Drawing on Land O’Lakes, Inc.’s 104 years of experience as a cooperative, we have learned that collaboration is crucial for bringing stability and predictability to the food and agriculture sectors. The ag community represents only around 1% of the population but, by working together, we can capture efficiencies and reinvest in innovation, expand market opportunities, and support the communities and local businesses that are essential to our nation’s food supply. Become a student of the game At Land O’Lakes we have a saying that “Our success starts with our member-owners’ success.” What this means is that our decisions and investments must be made with our cooperative owners in mind. This mantra has never been more important than today when external factors are pressuring our bottom lines and muddying the decision-making process. In agriculture, we’re seeing pressure on the supply side as a result of global trade dynamics, a reduction in demand due to dips in commodity prices, and a rising cost to serve. All of which results in a tightening of margins up and down the food value chain. To be clear, these challenges are hardly unique to our sector, and I see the remedy as equally universal. Business leaders must double down on being students of the game, keeping a pulse on market dynamics and geo-political developments to stay on offense. And it’s not enough to simply insulate your own business, we must think more collaboratively to identify solutions that serve partners up and down our value chains. Inject predictability into our food system To address the pressures facing American farmers, we must move beyond traditional methods and invest in modern technologies and data-driven solutions that provide detailed plans down to the acre and animal, help minimize risk to inject predictability into farm operations. By creating standardized, reliable, and secure datasets, the industry can provide insights that help farmers respond to environmental and market challenges, manage supply chains, and track production volumes with unprecedented precision. As I look across this sector, I’m especially inspired by how Keystone Cooperative is working to drive predictability. This Indianapolis-based cooperative is using precise, field-level data to help growers respond to seasonal challenges and maximize their ROI by applying the right crop protection products at the right time and in a precise location. For Land O’Lakes, data is the cornerstone of our innovation strategy. Through the WinField United Innovation Center, a leading agricultural applied research facility, we collect and analyze roughly six million data points annually to help farmers increase production, improve efficiency and optimize resource use. Those insights are then being delivered in a manner that reduces the risk farmers face each day. This includes low-interest financing, prescription programs with a performance warranty, and an AI assistant that provides real-time solutions to problems farmers encounter throughout the growing season. The power of the cooperative mindset In an era where traditional business models often prioritize short-term profits over long-term resilience, the cooperative model offers a compelling alternative. We like to say our capital is patient, meaning we can take a longer-term point of view—considering future generations as much as quarterly performance. With a reach that touches 50% of the U.S. harvested acres, over 100 million animals daily, and 13 billion pounds of milk per year, the Land O’Lakes cooperative system also demonstrates the strength of collaboration and shared purpose. By working together with established business leaders that have earned local trust and demonstrated the ability to drive change, we can strengthen the economic prosperity of our shared businesses and communities. The cooperative structure also fosters unique partnerships between stakeholders within and outside the agriculture sector. There’s a deeper level of commitment to shared success that shows up in business initiatives and community building alike. For instance, Land O’Lakes is collaborating with CentraCare to help establish the University of Minnesota CentraCare Regional Campus where medical students receive education, training, and career development opportunities in rural communities where local medical services are desperately needed. Going forward As we look ahead, I want to challenge other organizations to adopt this collaborative approach. Think externally and selflessly. Think long term. Think evolution. Even if you’re operating outside of the cooperative framework, this mindset can help solve the challenges we all face, enhance economic performance and uplift the communities we serve. Brett Bruggeman is the executive vice president and chief operating officer of Land O’Lakes, Inc. View the full article

An explicit guarantee for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac could cause the risk weighting of agency MBS to decline, in turn freeing up banks' balance sheets. View the full article

The last six months have been a strange, exhilarating time for crypto. First, there was the so-called “The President effect”—a surge in crypto prices and on-chain activity triggered by the then president-elect’s vocal support of crypto. Then came the viral “Hawk Tuah” meme, which somehow alchemized into a crypto memecoin that rocketed in value, pulled headlines, and emptied wallets in equal measure. For many first-time crypto users, these moments were their gateway into the blockchain. Wallets were downloaded. Tokens were swapped. Twitter (now X) feeds were flooded with strange new lingo: HODL, degen, DYOR. It was a wild ride. For most newcomers, the experience probably felt like trying to join a conversation in a foreign language while riding a rollercoaster. As the leader of a nonprofit dedicated to educating everyday Americans about crypto, I welcome this influx of interest. Crypto, at its best, can democratize financial access, create transparency, and offer new tools for digital empowerment. But hype cycles also bring risk: not just of financial loss, but of alienation and misunderstanding. It’s time we decouple the signal from the noise. Crypto isn’t just for bros—and it never was Let’s start by busting one of crypto’s most persistent stereotypes: that it’s just for young, wealthy finance bros chasing dreams of Lamborghini sports cars (aka “Lambos”) and going “to the moon.” Sure, that subculture exists—just like it does in day trading and sports betting. But crypto’s roots are far more diverse. Earlier this year, we conducted one of the largest-ever studies of crypto holders in America. We found that almost one third (31%) are women, and more are over the age of 55 (15%) than under 25 (11%). Nearly as many crypto users work in construction (12%) as do in technology (14%)—far more than those working in finance (7%)—and many do not belong to higher income brackets, with roughly a quarter (26%) of crypto-owning households earning less than $75,000/year. The stereotype is outdated and, frankly, dangerous. It discourages thoughtful newcomers from participating and lets bad actors hide behind a smokescreen of memes and cartoonish masculinity. The future of crypto will be shaped by everyday Americans, not caricatures. Decode the lingo, stay for the mission Don’t let the lingo intimidate you. You don’t need to speak “crypto” fluently to participate—just like you don’t need to know what “https” means to send an email. But to new users feeling overwhelmed by the language of crypto, here’s a quick translation guide to get started: HODL: Originally a typo for “hold,” it means holding on to your crypto for dear life and resisting the urge to sell in volatile markets. It’s become a philosophy for long-term belief in a project’s value. Degen: Short for “degenerate,” it describes high-risk traders chasing fast gains in often unvetted projects. It’s part joke, part warning. Memecoin: A token built around a joke or cultural moment like Dogecoin or the recent Hawk Tuah coin. Some are created in jest, others are tapping into legitimate community-driven goals. Think of these as digital collectibles, like Pokemon cards. Tips for crypto newbies Start small, stay curious: The best way to learn is by doing. Treat your first crypto transaction like your first gym session—you’re here to learn the ropes, not break a record. Use reputable platforms: Avoid buying coins just because they’re trending on TikTok. Stick to exchanges and wallets with strong reputations, transparent policies, and educational resources. Do your own research: Known as “DYOR” in the crypto world, do your own research and lean on trusted sources. Unfortunately like any industry, there is risk of scams or fraud with crypto. Rule of thumb: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Beyond the buzz Crypto’s potential isn’t defined by celebrity endorsements or trending memes. It lies in what happens beyond the hype: freedom to exchange value directly, without back-office delays or middlemen taking control. Transparent governance and extra layers of privacy. True ownership and accessibility of your digital identity and assets. Regardless of what piqued your interest in crypto or when, welcome. You’re right on time. The memes may fade, but crypto’s promise is here to stay. Stu Alderoty is president of the National Cryptocurrency Association. View the full article