Rethinking Influence In The Age Of AI: Five (Human) Strategies To Embrace Right Now

October 24, 2023

by Robert L. Dilenschneider, author of “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know“

Whatever our profession, most of us want to grow our influence — even if we’ve never thought of it in those terms. After all, the ability to influence others is at the heart of success. It’s what makes us great leaders, persuasive communicators, and productive professionals. It’s what gets us noticed, listened to, taken seriously, hired, promoted, and generally respected.

It used to be that the building blocks of influence were self-evident. Intelligence (both IQ and EQ). Authenticity. Work ethic. Innovative thinking and problem-solving savvy. And, of course, the ability to convey these qualities in the messages we share. These are the things humans respond to. But when a force that’s decidedly non-human sweeps in and upends the status quo — what then? (Yes, I’m talking about artificial intelligence.)

The rise of generative AI is more than a technological wave; it’s a seismic shift that’s disrupting everything. It stands to reason that advances in AI will also change the way we build influence — but how? And how much?

Having spent more than five decades advising Fortune 500 companies and government officials and working with international media, I believe both those who fear programs like ChatGPT and those who fetishize it are missing the mark.

We can’t ignore or wish away the fact that certain tasks and even jobs may soon become obsolete. On the other hand, we can’t assume we can type a few sentences into a text box and, suddenly, we’re home free. We still must do the hard part — the creative thinking and the genuine connecting.

Here are vital strategies for growing your influence in the age of AI.

Think quality over quantity, substance over superficiality.

Yes, programs like ChatGPT can churn out content by the megabyte, but more isn’t always better. With the constant barrage of information, what stands out is meaningful, intentional communication.

Before hitting ‘publish,’ ask yourself: Will this content make someone pause and think? Does it say something relevant about your brand or field? If not, consider revising or even discarding it.

Seek always to connect unconnected dots.

AI might crunch numbers better than any human, but it’s not about to write the next great novel. (This is not to say that AI can’t write a book of sorts. It definitely can. But that book would surely be missing the spark that makes people think and feel.) The point is that there’s a gap that only human creativity can fill.

In every pursuit, spend time brainstorming new ways of approaching old problems. How can you see the unseen angles? What can you bring to the table that no algorithm can?

Prioritize real-world relationships. They still mean something.

A story from my experience. A client was fixated on leveraging social media for a significant project. I told him, ‘You have seven key people you need to influence. Forget the hashtags; have real conversations with them.’ He did, and it worked.

The point? Take some time to identify the real decision-makers in your network, the people who actually move the needle, and connect with them genuinely.

Authenticity matters even more in the Algorithmic Age. Look for ways to provide the personal touch.

Amid the deluge of impersonal pixels and machine-generated content, a genuine human interaction is like a breath of fresh air.

Think about it: When was the last time you received a handwritten thank-you note? What about a holiday gift that wasn’t a generic fruit basket but rather an original autographed copy of your favorite book? These gestures can be time-consuming, but consider the lasting impression they leave.

Embrace lifelong learning. (That includes AI.)

Yes, if we’re being honest, many of us will admit we find the concept of AI a little scary. But part of remaining a vital professional is stretching ourselves and staying current. Think of AI as a method for extending your abilities, not a threat to them. Just remember, it’s a tool, not a “get-out-of-hard-work-free” ticket.

It isn’t about becoming a programmer overnight. It’s about recognizing the applications of AI and data analytics in your field and staying ahead of the curve. It’s about gaining a working knowledge of a new approach, so you’ll at least know how to think and talk about it. Take a class, or just download ChatGPT and try it out. Familiarity alleviates fear.

As we navigate the complexities introduced by AI, let these strategies serve as your North Star.

The essence of influence isn’t about keeping up with the machines as much as it is reaffirming the qualities that make us fundamentally human.

Robert L. Dilenschneider, founder and CEO of The Dilenschneider Group, is one of the world’s foremost communication experts and leadership coaches. Dilenschneider has authored 18 seminal business and career development books. He has counseled major corporations and professional groups around the globe and is frequently called upon by the media to provide commentary and strategic public relations insights on major news stories.

The ROI On Cybersecurity: How To Talk To The Board In Their Language

Contributor

October 23, 2023

by Joseph Carson, Chief Security Scientist & Advisory CISO at Delinea

In today’s digital era, cybersecurity stands as a cornerstone for the well-being and growth of businesses. However, even in the face of rising data breaches, ransomware, and various cyber threats, persuading the board to funnel resources into comprehensive cybersecurity strategies isn’t always straightforward.

This challenge arises primarily from the intricacies of presenting a tangible return on investment (ROI) linked to cybersecurity efforts. Most boards focus on business metrics, earnings, and strategic capital allocations, while cybersecurity centers on reducing risks and dealing with intangible elements like “emerging threats.”

Overcoming this dialogue barrier is pivotal in ensuring the board comprehends the importance of cybersecurity and recognizes its worth.

Understanding the Language of the Board

To effectively communicate with the board about cybersecurity investments, it’s crucial to understand their language – the language of finance and strategic business planning. Here are some key concepts and pain points typically expressed by board members:

Return on Investment (ROI).

A consistent concern for the board is the ROI of any potential investment. They seek clarity on the tangible and intangible benefits the company will receive relative to its investments. For cybersecurity, the gains are often about avoiding potential setbacks rather than directly increasing profits. Implementing solutions like Privileged Access Management (PAM) can provide a measurable ROI by reducing wasted time on resetting passwords, secure access to applications and systems or reducing the risk of unauthorized access by malicious attackers.

Business Risk Mitigation.

Board members understand risk dynamics well. They recognize that risks can’t always be avoided but can be monitored and reduced. In cybersecurity conversations, emphasize how the intended investment will curtail the threat of cyber incidents and align those risks to the subsequent financial losses.

Cost-Benefit Analysis.

Cost-benefit analysis is an analytical approach employed by the board to weigh the prospective benefits against the inherent costs of an initiative. Within the cybersecurity context, the advantages often involve safeguarding brand image, avoiding regulatory penalties, protecting revenue, and defending vital business data.

Long-term Strategic Value.

Board members gravitate towards ventures that promise sustained strategic advancement. Regarding cybersecurity, this involves sustaining customer loyalty, assuring uninterrupted business operations, and carving a niche advantage in the industry.

By speaking the board’s language, you can highlight the value of cybersecurity in terms they understand, making it easier to secure buy-in for necessary cybersecurity initiatives.

The True Cost of Inadequate Cybersecurity

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity has transitioned from being optional to indispensable. Overlooking or underinvesting in securing Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or Active Directory could inflict substantial immediate and subsequent expenses to organizations that dwarf their primary security investments.

Below we’ll examine some of the direct and indirect costs associated with inadequate cybersecurity:

Direct Costs.

Direct costs are the immediate, tangible losses a business incurs following a cybersecurity breach. They include:

Incident Response: Costs linked to the identification of the breach, its containment, and removal from systems.
Recovery and Remediation: This pertains to expenses for recovering lost data, fixing breached systems, and setting up defenses against possible future attacks.
Regulatory Fines: Organizations might be subjected to substantial fines by regulatory authorities if they neglect safeguarding sensitive client information.
Legal Costs: In situations where consumer information is jeopardized, there’s a potential for legal action, including attorney fees and prospective compensation settlements.

Indirect Costs.

Indirect costs, while less immediately apparent, can have long-lasting effects on a business. These include:

Reputational Damage: Trust is a fragile commodity. A breach can drastically tarnish an organization’s image, inducing potential business losses and declining market positioning.
Loss of Customer Trust: Following the disclosure of a breach, consumers may doubt the organization’s data security competencies, influencing both current and future business relationships.
Operational Disruption: Major cyber incidents can halt regular business functionality, leading to productivity gaps and increased operational spending.

Consider the infamous Equifax data infringement of 2017 as an example. This incident led to the release of the personal details of 147 million individuals and resulted in direct costs upwards of $1.4 billion for Equifax. While harder to gauge monetarily, the ensuing damage to its reputation and customer confidence was immense.

The true cost of inadequate cybersecurity is multifaceted and extends far beyond the immediate financial impact. It can disrupt operations, damage reputation, and erode customer trust. Investing in robust cybersecurity measures is about reducing the risks of potential losses and safeguarding the company’s future.

Calculating the ROI on Cybersecurity

Calculating the Return on Investment (ROI) in cybersecurity can be challenging due to its intangible nature.

Unlike other investments, cybersecurity doesn’t typically generate revenue. Instead, it helps protect revenueprevent losses and secureprotects the company’s digital assets. Therefore, the ROI for cybersecurity is often calculated based on cost savings from potential threats that didn’t materialize thanks to the implemented security measures.

Here’s a basic framework to calculate the ROI on cybersecurity:

Identify Potential Losses: Begin by determining what’s at stake if a cyberattack hits your organization. This includes direct expenses like system restoration and legal fees, as well as indirect hits like damage to your brand and erosion of customer confidence.
Estimate the Probability of a Cyberattack: While exact predictions are hard to nail down, historical data and industry trends can offer insights into the chance of a cyberattack targeting your business.
Calculate Potential Cost Savings: Multiply the assessed risks of a cyberattack by its estimated probability to gauge the potential savings from specific cybersecurity measures.
Subtract the Cost of Cybersecurity Investments: Finally, deduct the cost for your cybersecurity strategies from the estimated savings to get the ROI.

For instance, if risks from a cyber incident are valued at $10 million, and there’s a 20% chance of it happening, the potential savings stand at $2 million. If you’ve spent $500,000 on cybersecurity, the ROI comes to $1.5 million ($2 million minus $500,000).

Remember, this calculation provides a simplified view of the ROI on cybersecurity. It doesn’t consider some less tangible cybersecurity benefits, such as maintaining customer trust and protecting the company’s reputation.

Start Speaking Your Board’s Language

Knowing how to talk to your board is essential when it comes to cybersecurity investments. By using language that resonates with board members and presenting your ROI calculation simply yet effectively, you can ensure that your cybersecurity investments are given the attention they deserve.

Joseph Carson is a cybersecurity professional with more than 25 years’ experience in enterprise security and infrastructure. Currently, Carson is the Chief Security Scientist & Advisory CISO at Delinea. He is an active member of the cybersecurity community and a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

Navigating Selling: Everything Is An Iceberg

Contributor

October 21, 2023

by Karl Becker, author of the upcoming book “ICEBERG SELLING: Becoming a Better Salesperson by Looking Below the Surface”

Has your partner ever yelled at you about how you’re loading the dishwasher wrong? Did they seem a little more upset than they should be about something so basic? Chances are, there was something deeper than that going on, another reason they were frustrated with you. They just weren’t saying it.

Have you ever seen a little kid have a full-on meltdown because someone told them to put socks on? It probably wasn’t about the socks. It was probably because they were overtired, or didn’t want to go home, or a combination of the zillions of reasons kids cry.

And, more to the point of what we’re talking about here, have you ever had a great call with a new customer only to have them ghost you? Chances are there were things going on with them you didn’t know about, either. That’s because, even in sales, there is always more to a situation than meets the eye.

That leads me to the number one rule I want you to remember.

Everything is an iceberg.

Icebergs that float out in the oceans come in all different shapes and sizes. Some are pointed, some are round, some flare out, and other ones go straight down. Some of them are huge, and some of them, if you blink, you’ll miss. The one thing they have in common is that they are all 90 percent underwater.

And just because you have seen one iceberg doesn’t mean you are an expert on every single one. To navigate an iceberg safely, you need to explore it, or you might end up crashing into it and sinking (even if you think you’re the king of the world).

You know that your partner is annoyed with you, that the toddler is crying, and that a customer hasn’t gotten back to you, but that’s only 10 percent of what is actually going on in any given situation. Each one of those things are symptoms of something bigger. They’re only the actions you see on the surface. There’s always a lot more happening below that.

Keeping your partner happy with you is about more than doing the dishes their way. It’s about truly understanding who they are, what fills them up and what wears that down. It’s about seeing your partner in their entirety and meeting them there. If you want the toddler to stop crying, shouting at them to be quiet won’t do the trick. But taking a moment to understand why your two-year-old is raging might be a good next step. When you spend the time investigating and getting curious about the root cause, the path forward often becomes clear.

It’s no different with your customers. As a good salesperson, you know every customer is a little bit different. You don’t assume one person or company needs the same thing as another. That leads to misreading a situation, getting ghosted, and losing sales. If you want to find out what’s keeping a customer from responding to you, you need to understand what is really important to them. You need to be sure you showed them enough value and understanding in your last interactions and that you provided a clear and compelling path forward.

In the world of sales, one of the biggest and most frustrating risks is getting stuck in something I call the check-in zone. You’ve probably been there and know what I mean. It’s that place where you think you created value, and you think things went well in your interactions, but the customer stops responding to you and you feel you have been ghosted.

So now you find yourself in that dreaded place…that place where all you feel you can do is check in. You observe yourself leaving voicemails or text messages or writing emails with empty lines like…

“Hey, do you have any questions? I’m just checking in.”

“Just pinging you again to see if there’s anything I can do for you.”

“Do you need anything? Please reach back out if you’d like to talk further.”

“Hey, I haven’t heard from you in a while — are you breaking up with me?”

(Okay, that last one might not apply to your customers, but you get the picture.)

Getting stuck in the check-in zone feels horrible. Suddenly, we don’t feel like we have any traction or any path forward. We have no idea why things have stalled, and we start to send more and more desperate messages. What is happening is we start to make the sales about ourselves and what we need, but we disguise it in language about helping them or answering their questions.

After all my years working in sales, I can tell you that in the check-in zone, it’s super likely you’ve run into trouble because you looked only at the 10 percent of the customer’s iceberg that is above the surface.

If you don’t walk away with anything else, there’s one thing I want you to remember. To go from being a good salesperson to a great salesperson, you need to think about every person, every event, and every company you deal with as an iceberg. And to really keep out of trouble, you can’t wait to do so until you’ve already run into it.

When you are first getting an understanding of what a customer wants from you, you are just seeing what is on the surface. Learn to look deeper and you find more ways to connect. Then you start to build stronger relationships. Navigating an ocean full of icebergs involves preparing the right way and moving forward with confidence.

Now, that doesn’t mean icebergs are purposefully out to sink you, just like the people and situations you encounter every day aren’t there to trip you up. They are just there, going about their iceberg business, and it is up to you to decide what to do with them. Do you want to pass them by? Do you want to stop to explore them? Or do you want to pretend they aren’t there and risk wrecking everything?

No matter what you decide, you never know what’s going on with an iceberg from one look.

Lacking knowledge creates risk, whether you are steering a boat off the coast of Greenland or heading into a sales call.

With Iceberg Selling, you’ll be at lower risk, and you’ll be ghosted less and less. Your customers tell you they want to buy from you, and together you will chart next steps and get into mutual agreement on the path forward. As a bonus, the more you see everything as icebergs, the better you’ll connect with other human beings. That’s because when I say, “Everything is an iceberg,” I mean everything. Your family, your friends, your colleagues, your customers, your favorite barista — all of them have entire stories that you will only know if you seek to understand them.

*excerpted from the upcoming book “ICEBERG SELLING: Becoming a Better Salesperson by Looking Below the Surface” by Karl Becker

Karl Becker is a speaker and consultant who connects with your audience in a down-to-earth way and provides them with actionable value. Using his thirty years of experience as a salesperson, consultant, and coach, he inspires salespeople and shows them how to use their strengths to connect with their customers and achieve amazing sales results. He is author of the upcoming book “ICEBERG SELLING: Becoming a Better Salesperson by Looking Below the Surface”.

What Are The Benefits And Drawbacks Of A Shopify Website?

admin

October 20, 2023

Choosing the right platform to host your online store is crucial for every eCommerce business. Shopify has emerged as a powerhouse among e-commerce platforms, particularly for small businesses. As a Shopify agency London, we are a staunch advocate of what the platform can do for eCommerce businesses.

But every good thing comes with some bad. Whether or not you should invest in it all depends on what you are looking for. So, let’s talk about the pros and cons of a Shopify website and see if and how it can supercharge your online business.

Pros of Using Shopify

Ease of Use.

Shopify is renowned for its user-friendly interface. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to set up and manage your store.

A small business specialising in handmade accessories can launch its online store in a matter of days with Shopify. The intuitive platform allows you to manage inventory, add products, and process orders seamlessly. Even as a novice!

Beautiful Templates.

Shopify offers a wide range of professionally designed templates that can be customised to suit your brand. For instance, if you are a local bookstore, you can use Shopify’s template customisation to create an elegant and bookish feel for your online store – a design that is likely to instantly resonate with your target audience of avid readers.

Mobile Optimisation.

With a significant portion of eCommerce traffic coming from mobile devices, mobile optimisation is crucial. Shopify automatically optimises your store for mobile users.

So, if you are a fashion retailer, you stand a chance to see a significant increase in mobile sales after switching to Shopify. Simply because the platform’s responsive design ensures a seamless shopping experience for customers on smartphones.

Scalability.

Shopify grows with your business. Whether you are just starting or already established, Shopify can accommodate your needs.

Suppose you are small electronics retailer looking for rapid growth. Shopify’s scalability can allow you to expand your product range and handle increased traffic without hiccups while you are growing your business.

Simply put, your ambitions will never be restricted due to technological barriers.

Payment Options.

Shopify integrates with a wide array of payment gateways, giving your customers multiple payment options.

Businesses on Shopify typically integrate Shopify Payments, PayPal, and various credit card processing to offer flexibility in payment methods, which proves to be beneficial in getting higher conversion rates.

Security and Reliability.

Shopify invests heavily in security, ensuring your customers’ data is protected. You can actually build trust by prominently displaying Shopify’s security badges. This can reassure customers about the safety of your online transactions.

SEO-Friendly.

Shopify offers built-in SEO features that help your store rank higher in search engine results. As an eCommerce store, you are bound to use a lot of photos and visual aids to showcase what you sell. You can optimise product descriptions and meta tags using Shopify’s SEO tools. This can lead to increased organic traffic and higher visibility in search results.

App Integration.

Shopify’s app store provides countless integrations for additional functionality. Businesses can add review apps to their Shopify stores to offer higher social proof and boost their store’s credibility, which can ultimately impact their sales.

24/7 Customer Support.

Shopify provides round-the-clock customer support to assist with any issues. So, if faced with a technical problem, Shopify’s 24/7 support will quickly resolve your issues so that you experience minimal disruption during sales.

Multi-Channel Selling.

Shopify enables you to sell not only on your website but also on social media and other online marketplaces.

Using this feature, you can expand to Instagram and Facebook with Shopify’s multi-channel selling. This will allow you to tap into a broader audience and increase sales.

For small businesses aiming to thrive in the digital era, a Shopify website offers a plethora of advantages. From its user-friendly interface to mobile optimisation, scalability, and robust security features, Shopify empowers entrepreneurs to create successful online ventures. By embracing Shopify, small businesses can not only compete but also flourish in the highly competitive world of online retail.

Cons of Using Shopify

Shopify, undoubtedly a powerful eCommerce platform, comes with an array of benefits for small businesses. However, no platform is without its drawbacks. Here are some challenges and drawbacks that businesses may face when using Shopify.

Costs Can Add Up.

While Shopify offers various pricing plans, the costs can escalate as your business grows. Transaction fees, app subscriptions, and credit card processing fees can eat into your profits.

Limited Customisation.

While Shopify’s templates are visually appealing and customisable to some extent, they may not offer the level of uniqueness that some businesses desire. Achieving a truly distinctive look might require a higher level of coding and design expertise.

App Dependency.

To enhance your store’s functionality, you might need to rely on third-party apps. While many are free or offer free versions, some essential apps come at a monthly cost, increasing your overall expenses.

Limited Blogging Capabilities.

If content marketing and blogging are central to your strategy, Shopify’s built-in blogging features might not be as robust as those of dedicated content management systems like WordPress.

SEO Limitations.

While Shopify provides essential SEO tools, advanced customisation options are somewhat limited. This could impact your ability to implement highly specific or technical SEO strategies.

Transaction Fees.

Unless you use Shopify Payments for processing payments, you will incur additional transaction fees, which can be a financial burden for small businesses.

Data Portability.

Migrating away from Shopify can be challenging due to the platform’s proprietary structure. If your business outgrows Shopify or requires more customisation, this could become a limitation.

Platform Lock-In.

Once you have built your store on Shopify, moving to another platform can be complex and costly. This can potentially limit your flexibility in the long term.

Learning Curve.

Despite its user-friendly reputation, Shopify can still have a learning curve, especially if you are new to eCommerce. Understanding all the features and settings might take time.

Limited Multi-Language Support.

Shopify’s native multi-language support is somewhat basic. Expanding your store to cater to international customers with diverse language preferences might require additional apps or development work.

While Shopify is an excellent choice for many small businesses, it is essential to be aware of its drawbacks and limitations. The costs, customisation constraints, and reliance on third-party apps are some of the primary challenges small businesses might face. However, with careful planning, resource allocation, and a clear understanding of your business’s unique needs, these drawbacks can often be mitigated, allowing you to make the most of Shopify’s many advantages while addressing its limitations effectively.

The Art And Science Of Trends Forecasting, In Car Design And Beyond

Contributor

October 20, 2023

by Christian Delise

Over the past few years we’ve moved beyond the Information Age to the Information Age on Steroids. Data collection technologies and methodologies have grown prodigious and prolific, making it possible to drown yourself in any type of data you choose. You can plunge into a virtually bottomless pit of facts, figures, precise calculations and projections, with thousands or even millions of relevant data points to choose from, depending on the industry that employs you.

Presumably, this makes it easier than ever to forecast market trends and the evolution of consumer preferences. This should be especially true in car design, where more than one billion people own cars and at least that many will own them in the future. When you have this many current and potential consumers, plus dozens of major automobile brands across the world trying to please them, you should have no trouble finding interesting trends-related information to collect, cross-correlate and analyze.

Despite the exponential multiplication of available data points, however, trends forecasting still can’t be classified as pure science. It contains elements of science, but it is also undoubtedly an art form, one that relies on instinct and intuition in addition to the immense quantities of data. Human beings are complex creatures, and trying to forecast exactly how their changing preferences might best be satisfied will remain a tall task, for the most sophisticated AI systems and the most brilliant analysts alike.

How Trends Forecasting Can Help the Designer

Trends forecasting in car design is fraught with uncertainty. Yet there is still a certain predictability about it that makes it a worthwhile endeavor. This is because consumers are consistent in their desire for a safe, convenient and enjoyable driving experience, and innovations or changes that enhance these elements will be welcome while those that don’t will be rejected. They also have expectations about how cars should look, which is grounded in the concept of gradual evolution rather than sudden and radical change.

You can alter various features and package them as cleverly as you’d like. But if you’re efforts are swimming against the tide, you’ll be drowning in a river of red ink soon enough.

Cars captured my imagination as a child. Back then I was enthralled by the sleek and glossy images of the various Concept Cars (a.k.a Dream Cars) all the major car companies were releasing through consumer magazines like Car & Driver and Road & Track. So I eagerly poured through these publications, looking to learn more about the shape of things to come.

But here is a real irony. While being enraptured by these futuristic cars helped motivate my interest in becoming a car designer, once I’d actually become one I became more and more skeptical of the most imaginative concepts, which seemed pie in the sky and divorced from reality. I’ve learned that trends forecasting can act as a buffer against getting lost in fantasy, or in projecting your wishes and desires onto the public.

In car design, the most creatively brilliant inventions are usually iterations on a tried-and-true theme. This is why trends forecasting is so necessary because it allows you to assess the data that will show you where your creative lens should be focused.

To make trends forecasting a useful enterprise, you’ll have to observe larger trends and smaller ones, which the data will help illuminate. Some of the information you’ll analyze while developing your forecasting skills will be open to interpretation, and you’ll need to figure out what it all really means through your own powers of logical deduction. In a lot of cases the trends won’t be specific to your industry at all, but will instead reflect ongoing developments in the society, culture, or economy as a whole. The trick in these instances will be to make sensible connections between the car industry and the social and environmental context, to figure out how car designers should respond to any trends that might have an impact on consumer demands and expectations.

Trends Forecasting in Action: The Porsche Convey

For me, the utility of trends forecasting has been confirmed by some of my earliest work, from 2007 and 2008, when I developed a concept for a Porsche with all-terrain capability. I called my proposed rally car the Porsche Convey, and my choice of the rally car template wasn’t based on a whim. It was grounded in my observation of societal trends and their growing impact on consumer preferences, and my knowledge of how car designers would normally respond to such challenges.

In times of economic instability and cultural uncertainty, the mentality of the consumer will inevitably turn toward vehicle options that are more durable and versatile. Reliability and the ability to function in all road conditions will trump concerns over appearance, forcing designers to adapt. The rally car had a long and storied history in the automotive industry, and I saw the rally car model as the ideal template to help Porsche respond to a changing climate.

Eventually Porsche perceived the same trends that I did, and it was quite exciting to see them finally produce a rally version of their acclaimed 911 model. The fact that I lived the dream of working with Porsche in 2018 made it all the more satisfying to see them align with my vision. Porsche ultimately recognized the same trends I had, and responded to them with a magnificent innovation that verifies the usefulness of trends forecasting for car designers and manufacturers who want to respond to meaningful developments in the real world.

Trends Forecasting is a Fantastic Tool, but You Have to Figure Out How to Use It

Trends forecasting is a valuable tool, but in the end it will be up to you as a designer to decide how to use it. No matter how much data you collect, or how many changes you observe, and what you think their overall direction might be, you’ll have to trust your instincts once the actual design process commences.

There will be some signs pointing you in certain directions, and you should be confident in your capacity to interpret them correctly. But knowing you can’t actually predict the future, but can only perceive some of the likelihoods or range of possibilities will force you to make all the final choices. Which obviously leaves plenty of room for creativity, which should delight you.

Needless to say, none of this applies exclusively to car design. Whatever industry you work in, all of the research and analysis involved in trends forecasting will be extremely valuable to you as a creator. It will humble you and force you to color within the lines, respecting the parameters of innovation that your present and future customers are perpetually in the process of setting.

Christian Delise, a prominent figure in the automotive world, began his journey studying consumer psychology and later honed his skills in Industrial Transportation Design. Since 2010, he’s been involved in advanced design roles at major companies like Toyota, Volkswagen, Porsche and Lamborghini and others, while also founding two companies and earning seven patents. Christian’s latest venture, Delise Automotive, embodies his advocacy for Regenerative Product Modality (RPM), driving the automotive industry toward a circular future.

Redefining Freedom

Contributor

October 19, 2023

by Andrea Liebross, author of “She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary“

When you run your own business, you can create your own freedoms, and when you’re free, you can live up to your potential. When you work for somebody else, you’re not free to choose what you do, when you do it, and why you do it. Entrepreneurs often choose their path because they want what they consider freedom in four main categories: Time, money, relationships, and brain power — our four most valuable resources.

But these freedoms are more about how a person manages their mind than how they manage the resource itself. First, even the notion you have to be a business owner to have those freedoms isn’t true. You can have them at any time. When I work with clients, they usually say they are seeking those kinds of freedoms, but I find the freedoms they believe they crave at the beginning of doing this work aren’t the kinds they experience in the end.

To examine our thinking, we need to realize there are two sets of ideas going on: Having more of a resource(s) versus having freedom in relation to the resources. Let’s look in more depth at those concepts.

Freedom of Time

As a business owner and entrepreneur, you constantly juggle time constraints. You may have once fantasized about having freedom to do whatever you wanted with your time, but now, you may feel like that was an impossible dream.

However, that’s all in your thinking. You can manage people who demand your time, and you can choose how much free time you have and what you do with it. If you think you should be available all the time to clients, staff, and family, that’s not a problem with time but a problem with your thoughts about time.

Successful entrepreneurs manage time demands by managing their own minds. To manage your time, you have to free yourself from reacting to how you think you should be spending your time and start choosing where to spend your time. You choose your boundaries with time. Past You thought being available 24/7 created job security. Future You knows that’s not true; those people will still be there when you’re ready.

Freedom of Money

When I talk to my clients about money, most just tell me they want to make more. I ask, “How much more?” But they don’t know. They don’t even give themselves permission to establish a number. Setting a number is scary. What if they don’t achieve it?

But is the real goal with money having piles of it or just not having to worry about it? Olivant says most people would choose the second option.

When my clients run their businesses well, they make money. How much depends on how they set prices, profit margins, and a number of other things. All those things are up to them. Think of Arianna, who made all her decisions about money with a specific goal in mind. She knows her market and how to appeal to them, and she is achieving her monetary goals. If you have what others want, and you know how to market yourself and run your business — if you know your own worth in dollars and sense — you’ll make money.

Being free of worry about money is a whole different thing. It goes back to managing your mind. Anxiety over money doesn’t stop just because you reach a certain amount or restrict your spending. Believing you have enough funds to do what you want, right here and now, without money being an obstacle, is freedom.

Freedom of Relationship

Whom do you want to do business with? Who do you want on your team? You get to choose these people because you own your own business. Not only that, you get to choose how you want to think about and interact with those people. How to have a relationship is often far more important than whether to have it. We can learn and grow a great deal just by working through difficult situations with people.

By now, you know I am all about having the right people in the right seats. We think that “when we have the right people in place,” everything will be a lot easier. But as your capacity to Think Bigger expands, you’ll realize relationships with others are just a bunch of thoughts about how we interact with them and who we think they are. Those thoughts lead to feelings, which lead to actions, which lead to results. Sometimes you do need to let a team member go because they don’t have the skills you need. But sometimes, before jumping to letting them go, consider whether you can help them learn things while you also gain skills in coaching performance better. This benefits both you and the other person.

We can have freedom in a relationship right now. We get to choose how we want to think about the angry client or the disgruntled team member. This goes for personal relationships, too.

Exercising this freedom is important for your well-being. You want to spend more and more of your time surrounded just by people you click with, who you appreciate and who appreciate you, but realistically, you can’t manage your life to include only those people. Freedom comes from changing your expectations around others’ actions. Just as you love your kids though you don’t always approve of their behavior, you can appreciate difficult people for what they do and deal with the issues without losing your peace of mind. Obviously, this doesn’t mean tolerating abuse — but it does mean refusing to allow the behavior of another to control your own actions or thoughts. You get to choose how to respond emotionally and whether or not to be trapped in those emotions.

Even Positive Relationships Can Be Restricting

Women who inherit businesses often deal with the problem of trying to honor their family legacy while also finding their own way of doing things. Their loyalty to their parent(s) or the person from whom they inherited the business conflicts with the need to make their own decisions. This is an example of why managing thoughts around relationships is crucial.

Jenna became a young female CEO of her family-owned business and sat at the head of the table where men filled most of the other seats inside her organization and in the industry. Her father had created a successful and profitable business and had an established way of doing things. But Jenna needed more freedom in the business moving forward.

At first, Jenna worried about what the employees would think if she changed things. She hesitated to make too many waves in the male-dominated company and field. However, she soon realized that if she didn’t just stop worrying about what others thought, she would be trapped in a suffocating and deflating situation.

If you’ve inherited a business, or you’re in a situation where you fear letting go of “the old way of doing things” (even if you’re the one who created them!) because others are accustomed to it, give yourself permission to ruffle as many feathers as it takes to move forward into a fresh new vision and completely new territory. It will be exciting, maybe a little scary, but far more fulfilling and freeing than doing the same old thing just because that’s “how it’s always been done.”

Freedom of Brain Power

This is the ultimate freedom. No one gets to tell you what to think, what opinions to have, or how to feel. You get to think about what you want right now and direct your energy and brain power toward what you choose. And ultimately, you get to feel free right now — that feeling is only a choice away.

How you use your brain is your most important freedom because it shapes everything else. When you’re choosing how to think and feel about things instead of just reacting, you’ll be unstoppable.

*excerpted from “She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary“

Andrea Liebross, a certified business and life coach, empowers female entrepreneurs to adopt a CEO mindset, transcending drama and achieving business success. Author of “She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary“, Andrea excels in implementing strategies for sustainable success and shares her expertise as a dynamic speaker and podcast host.

Why Leaders Need Financial Literacy

Contributor

October 18, 2023

by Amol Maheshwari and Shweta Jhajharia, authors of “SCORE: The Fundamentals of Building a Financially Successful Business“

“Money without financial intelligence is money soon gone”
– Robert Kiyosaki

Do you know how to read a balance sheet, calculate your return on investment, or forecast your cash flow? If you are a leader in any organisation, these are some of the financial skills you need to succeed in today’s complex and competitive business environment. Financial literacy is the ability to understand and use financial information to make sound decisions, communicate effectively, and achieve strategic goals.

In this article, we explain why financial literacy is important for leaders, and how they can improve their financial knowledge and skills.

The Benefits of Financial Literacy for Leaders

Financial literacy can help leaders in many ways, such as:

Setting realistic and achievable goals.

By understanding the financial situation of their organization, leaders can plan ahead, allocate resources, and measure progress. They can also identify potential risks and opportunities and adjust their strategy accordingly. For example, a leader who understands the revenue and sales figures of their organisation can spot trends and patterns, and optimize their pricing, marketing, or inventory strategy.

Communicating effectively with stakeholders.

By understanding the financial reports of their organization, leaders can explain their performance, justify their decisions, and persuade their investors, customers, employees, and partners. They can also use financial data to support their arguments and proposals. For example, a leader who understands the gross profit margin of their organization can demonstrate their efficiency in production and sales and negotiate better terms with suppliers or clients.

Making informed and confident decisions.

By understanding the financial options of their organization, leaders can evaluate the costs and benefits of different alternatives and choose the best one for their organization. They can also avoid common financial mistakes, such as overspending, underinvesting, or mispricing. For example, a leader who understands the accounts receivable aging of their organization can manage their cash flow and enforce timely payment policies.

Enhancing their credibility and reputation.

By understanding their financial responsibilities, leaders can comply with the laws and regulations, and avoid legal or ethical issues. They can also demonstrate their competence and professionalism and earn the trust and respect of their stakeholders. For example, a leader who understands the debt-to-equity ratio of their organization can maintain a healthy balance between debt and equity and avoid financial distress or bankruptcy.

How to Improve Financial Literacy as a Leader

Financial literacy is not a fixed trait; it is a learnable skill that can be improved with education and practice. Here are some ways that leaders can enhance their financial literacy:

Read up on the basics of finance.

There are many resources available online or offline that can help leaders learn the fundamentals of finance, such as financial terminology, statements, concepts, and tools. One of them is our book “SCORE: The Fundamentals of Building a Financially Successful Business“, a practical and comprehensive guide that will help you master the key metrics that matter for your business.

Apply the knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Reading is not enough; leaders need to practice using their financial knowledge to solve problems and make decisions in realistic situations. They can use case studies, simulations, games, or exercises that challenge them to apply their financial skills and concepts.

Seek feedback and guidance from experts.

Learning from others who have more experience or expertise in finance can help leaders improve their financial literacy faster and more effectively. They can seek feedback from mentors, coaches, peers, or consultants who can offer them advice, insights, or tips on how to use financial information better. One of them is Growth Idea, UK’s leading SME business coaching company.

Conclusion

Financial literacy is not an optional skill for leaders; it is an essential skill that can help them succeed in any area of business. By understanding and using financial information wisely, leaders can set goals, communicate effectively, make decisions, and enhance their credibility. Therefore, I encourage all leaders to invest in improving their financial literacy skills as soon as possible.

Amol Maheshwari is the Managing Partner and M&A head at Growth Idea. Shweta Jhajharia is a leading global business coach and founder of Growth Idea. Their new book Score is the ultimate handbook to help SME business owners and senior leaders master the fundamentals of finance in order to propel them towards unprecedented success.

5 Benefits Of Understanding Your Rights As An Employee

admin

October 18, 2023

The job market is evolving, creating new laws on how employee rights will be upheld. As a result of these rules, employees are protected from issues at work such unjust termination and accidents at the job. However, one can only fight for their rights when they know them.

Learn more about the required work environment and treatment of workers by employers, as all this raises your job satisfaction. This blog expounds on why every employee should understand their rights.

Job Security

Many employees worry about their job security as the job market becomes competitive. Employers typically have the authority to fire you, but they must follow the proper procedures while doing so. The employment laws in different nations are clear on which parameters dictate a wrongful and fair termination.

You can firmly stand against any unfair layoff with knowledge of the law. For instance, a company may fire you since you filed a case against them. This could be after a harassment incident that you never entertained. When this happens, you can file a workplace retaliation lawsuit against the employer. This will compensate you for the harsh actions taken against you after exercising your rights. However, you need to work with the best attorneys for the case to be fruitful.

Empowerment and Self-Advocacy

When you’re aware of the legal protections and entitlements, it brings a feeling of motivation and assertion. You become better prepared whenever something happens in your workplace. At the same time, it discourages anyone from trying to take advantage of you. This self-advocacy and empowerment opens your eyes to asking for fair treatment.

It will be easy to echo your concerns without fear if there are poor conditions, such as limited spaces and inadequate supplies. On the other hand, when negotiating salaries, it can feel terrible to ask for a high amount, even when you have a high skill level. With a self-advocacy mindset, showing the employer why you deserve the raise will be easy.

Fair Compensation

The government sets clear rules and regulations on wages and salaries so that all workers get paid for their efforts. For instance, minimum wage laws state the remuneration range for every job level. If you work overtime, you also deserve the correct pay, so knowledge is vital.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) outlines the numbers employers should work with depending on the nature of their operations. Knowing this will help you determine when to file for compensation as a worker. A good example is when you’re on paid leave but receive nothing.

Safe and Healthy Working Conditions

Every company has to create a safe environment for its workers. This is done by optimizing the different structures, such as floors, lighting fixtures, and electrical lines. Additionally, the teams should work with the correct safety gear if the place is hazardous.

Thus, raise the alarm whenever your employer overlooks health and occupational safety measures. You can request protective equipment and even make reports with the relevant authorities. This is the only way to be safe from injury-causing accidents while working.

Work-Life Balance

As much as you have significant professional responsibilities, you’re also entitled to time for your personal life. No company should deny you the right to family leave and flexible work hours. There should also be maternal and paternal leaves, as this is part of the employment laws.

For instance, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) grants American workers the freedom to take time from work for specified family or medical needs. Such arrangements are generally unpaid and should not risk your job security in any way.

Endnote

By comprehending your rights as a worker, you quickly know when the employer oppresses you. This brings personal empowerment and protection, hence bringing more job contentment. Keep discovering the new laws and regulations for the workspaces and engage lawyers when there is an issue.

How Often Should You Clean Your Office Space?

admin

October 18, 2023

There’s a lot that goes into ensuring your office or workplace is a happy, healthy, and productive environment. While you can easily focus on teamwork, morale, and other aspects, you should consider everyday issues, such as hygiene.

The importance of ensuring your workplace is tidy can’t be ignored. A clean office space promotes productivity, reduces absenteeism, and boosts concentration.

However, how often should you clean your office space?

Regular Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning

Unfortunately, there is no set number of times or duration for cleaning your office space. Different offices have varying cleaning requirements. However, you should follow the standard regulations that guide regular and deep office cleaning.

Regular office cleaning is the frequent cleaning tasks done by staff members daily, weekly, or monthly. Regular cleaning includes simple tasks, such as wiping tables, clearing garbage, dusting surfaces, and light vacuuming. These simple tasks aim at ensuring the workplace is tidy and appealing.

As for the frequency of regular cleaning, it primarily depends on the specific task. For instance, garbage should be disposed of at least once weekly or sooner if the bin is full. On the other hand, you should wipe your office desks weekly.

That said, deep cleaning refers to intensive cleaning practices that often require help from office cleaning professionals with the right equipment. Common deep cleaning services include floor cleaning, changing air filters, cleaning upholstery, and rug care. Deep office cleaning improves the health and safety of your employees.

Without deep cleaning, mold, germs, and bacteria can slowly infest your office, causing illnesses. However, since it is more thorough than regular cleaning, it shouldn’t be done frequently. Workspaces should be deep cleaned at least twice yearly.

How Often Should You Schedule Commercial Cleaning Services?

As mentioned, you should schedule deep cleaning services at least twice annually. However, several factors influence the frequency of deep cleaning your office space. For instance, rarely occupied office spaces don’t need regular cleaning like office spaces with heavy foot traffic. Other questions to ask yourself when determining the cleaning frequency include:

Do You Share the Office Building with Other Businesses?

Shared offices mean more employees and foot traffic coming into your office building. As such, regular cleaning should be done weekly, if not daily. However, this depends on the type of business you share the office space with. For instance, you’ll need to clean your office space frequently if you are sharing the building with a doctor’s office.

The Number of Employees.

The number of workers in the building also influences cleaning frequency. Offices with hundreds of employees should schedule commercial cleaning services frequently. The higher the number of employees, the dirtier the office becomes. You should schedule deep cleaning at least once monthly.

Type of Business.

You should schedule regular deep cleaning if you are running a restaurant or any business that requires high-level hygiene. Industrial businesses with few employees and visitors don’t need daily cleaning.

Endnote

The importance of office cleanliness goes beyond meeting sanitation standards. Cleanliness in office spaces affects employee performance and productivity. Apart from regular and deep cleaning, you should also practice maintenance cleaning. This essentially involves cleaning glass mirrors and windows, dusting walls, and wiping down appliances.

[Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash]

Elevating Customer Relationships: The Strategic Power Of Storytelling In Business

Contributor

October 18, 2023

by Evelien Kong, executive producer of the podcast Reppin

In my history as a TV producer and podcast host, I’ve come to recognize that storytelling isn’t just for the screen — it’s an invaluable tool for businesses seeking to forge deeper and more authentic connections with their customers. It’s the key to not only engaging an audience, but to building enduring relationships that drive authentic growth.

Fostering Brand Loyalty Through Narrative

Every successful business is built on a foundation of trust and loyalty. If you don’t have that, you’re already failing. But you can strengthen this trust and loyalty using creative avenues. Through strategic storytelling, you can showcase the values, mission, and essence of your brand in a way that resonates with your audience. Customers aren’t just purchasing a product or service; they’re investing in a narrative that aligns with their own beliefs and aspirations. They’re investing in you. It’s your job to bring that story to your supporters for continued success.

Leveraging Authenticity for Competitive Advantage

In 2023, authenticity is paramount. Spotting a brand that is performative has gotten easier as consumers are flooded daily with content ranging from fake to inspiring. Consider that you’re dealing with millions of experts on discerning authentic content. Storytelling, when done in a way that is in line with brand values, allows businesses to peel back the curtain and reveal the human side of their operations. When customers witness the genuine faces and stories behind a brand, trust, and essentially the relationship, is solidified. This authenticity sets you apart in a crowded marketplace, offering a competitive edge rooted in transparency.

Triggering Action through Emotional Engagement

The decision to buy from a brand, ultimately, is driven by emotion. And effective storytelling has the power to evoke emotions that inspire action. Whether it’s sparking excitement, instilling confidence, or tugging at heartstrings, these emotional connections are what drive people to go from an observer to a brand loyalist. Consider a recent purchase you absolutely love. Consider the branding that pulled you in. The likelihood is that your favorite purchase makes you feel a certain way because of the story that comes with it.

From a business perspective, investing in strategic storytelling is a deliberate move toward cultivating a more committed customer base. When customers feel a deep-rooted connection to your brand, they’re more likely to remain loyal and spread the word. They feel better about the product their investing in because of the way it makes them feel. This makes strong storytelling a mutually beneficial relationship if done right.

Storytelling is an indispensable asset for your business. Story is the brand, the flavor, the color, the feel, of what you’re selling. As I’ve grown my business and built a podcast community, it’s the storytelling that creates the relationships with my audience and consumers. That’s where the real, long-term value lies. Without it, everything would get lost in the rest of the market. So as you build your brand, remember that it’s not just about what we sell, but the stories we tell. It’s through these narratives that we build not only brands, but communities of loyal supporters.

Evelien Kong is a veteran TV producer and director, the creator, host, and executive producer of the podcast, Reppin, and the owner of Suburban Outlaw Productions. She has an extensive background that includes producing award-winning documentaries for MTV, crafting digital content for Law and Order SVU, sharing her expertise on storytelling with creators and business owners, and working alongside a roster of A-list celebrities.

Scheduling Flexibility: A Major Perk Of Mobile Auto Repair

admin

October 18, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive services, one trend is rapidly gaining momentum – mobile auto repair. This isn’t just about fixing cars. It’s a revolution in how we view, use, and maintain our vehicles.

Just as food trucks brought gourmet meals to our doorsteps and mobile salons made pampering a more personalized affair, mobile auto mechanics are redefining the realm of vehicle maintenance. The days of long waits and inconvenient scheduling at traditional repair shops are fading into the rearview mirror, making way for a new era of car servicing.

The Hassle of Traditional Auto Repair Scheduling

Fixed Operating Hours.

Traditional auto repair shops operate on a fixed schedule, usually from nine to five, which often clashes with our own busy schedules. This rigidity means either taking time off work or juggling responsibilities to fit into the narrow window of operating hours. We’ve all been there, rushing to drop off the car before work, or having to wait in the lounge because we missed our appointment. Car mechanics that come to you break this mold, offering flexibility that traditional garages can’t match.

Unexpected Delays.

Even with an appointment, there’s no guarantee your car will be serviced right away. The mechanic might find an unexpected issue with a previous job, or a spare part delivery might be delayed. This can lead to prolonged wait times, messing up your entire day. In contrast, car mechanic home service typically dedicates its focus to one vehicle at a time, drastically reducing the potential for unforeseen delays.

Overbooking Issues.

Overbooking is a common issue in traditional repair shops. A mechanic might schedule multiple appointments around the same time, hoping to maximize their workflow. However, if one job takes longer than expected, it creates a domino effect, leading to long wait times for other customers. Mobile mechanic auto repair, on the other hand, offers a dedicated service, ensuring that each client receives individual attention without the complications of overbooking.

Understanding Mobile Auto Repair

The idea behind mobile auto service is straightforward but revolutionary: bring the mechanic to the car, not the other way around. Instead of you driving to a garage, the garage, in the form of a fully-equipped van or truck, comes to you. This shift in the operational paradigm ensures that the service is centred around your convenience, not constrained by a stationary location. Whether you’re at home, work, or stranded by the roadside, a mobile car mechanic is just a call or click away, ready to offer the required assistance.

Ease of Scheduling.

Scheduling with a mobile car body repairs service is a breeze. Gone are the days of trying to fit a car repair into a lunch break or wrestling to find a nearby garage with available slots. Instead, the control is in your hands. You choose the time and place, and the mobile mechanic adapts to your timetable. This kind of flexibility is the essence of the mobile repair revolution, highlighting its customer-centric ethos.

Advantages of Flexible Scheduling

Anytime, Anywhere Service.

Imagine breaking down on a deserted highway late at night. In such a situation, a mobile auto mechanic becomes your saviour. The major advantage of mobile repair services is their capacity to serve you whenever and wherever you need them. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a quiet Sunday afternoon, you don’t need to adjust your schedule. They adjust theirs to fit yours.

Customizable Service Hours.

With traditional repair services, you’re bound by their operational hours. But with car repair home service, you’re offered the freedom to set your service hours. Need a late-night oil change? Or perhaps an early morning brake check before a road trip? No problem. The service moulds around your needs, offering an unmatched level of customization.

Weekend and Holiday Availability.

Holidays and weekends often become our default car service days due to work commitments on weekdays. However, many garages remain closed or have limited hours on these days. This is where auto mobile mechanic services shine. Their flexible approach frequently includes weekend and holiday availability, ensuring you’re never left stranded, no matter the day or occasion.

Impact on Time Management

Reduced Downtime.

One of the most significant benefits of car mechanic at home service is the considerable reduction in downtime. Traditional garages often require you to leave your vehicle for hours or even days, disrupting your routine. However, when the service is brought to your doorstep, you can simultaneously manage other tasks. Whether it’s working from your home office, spending quality time with family, or even catching up on your favourite show, your day remains largely uninterrupted.

Better Planning and Organization.

Having a car mechanic at home allows for enhanced planning. Knowing the exact time your vehicle will be attended to helps in streamlining other activities. No longer do you have to block out large chunks of your day, uncertain about when your car will be ready. The predictability provided by mobile services lets you allocate time efficiently, making for a more organized day.

Less Stress.

The beauty of mobile mechanic auto repair lies not just in its efficiency but also in its ability to reduce stress. There’s no battling traffic to get to a garage, no waiting in crowded lounges, and no uncertainty about when the work will be done. Everything is straightforward, predictable, and revolves around your convenience, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Case Scenarios Demonstrating Flexibility

Emergency Repairs.

Imagine you’re preparing for an important meeting, and you find a flat tire or a dead battery. In such emergencies, car mechanics that come to you are a blessing. Instead of scrambling to find a nearby garage and risking being late, a mobile mechanic can address the issue right in your driveway or office parking lot, ensuring minimal disruption to your day.

Routine Maintenance.

Routine maintenance, such as oil changes or tire rotations, is essential for a vehicle’s longevity. Often, these tasks are pushed to weekends due to time constraints. But with mobile car repair, they can be scheduled during a lunch break, early morning, or any other convenient time. Your daily activities can continue without a hitch while your car receives the care it needs.

Pre-Trip Inspections.

Going on a road trip? A thorough inspection is crucial to ensure safety and avoid unforeseen breakdowns. Instead of squeezing in a garage visit amidst packing and other preparations, a mobile auto mechanic can provide a comprehensive pre-trip checkup right in your driveway. It’s about ensuring safety and peace of mind without any additional hassle.

Comparing Mobile Auto Repair and Traditional Garages

Accessibility and Availability.

The hallmark of mobile auto repair is its inherent accessibility. Instead of being bound by geographical constraints, the service comes to your chosen location, be it home, office, or a remote area. Traditional garages, on the other hand, require you to navigate to a specific place, often leading to added travel time and inconvenience. With a mobile service, the world, or at least your immediate vicinity, becomes the workshop.

Efficiency and Timeliness.

Efficiency is a significant factor where car repair home service holds a clear edge. Traditional repair shops, with their influx of various vehicles and potential overbookings, can sometimes lead to longer wait times. Conversely, a mobile service, focused on serving one client at a time, offers dedicated attention ensuring the work is done in a timely manner without unnecessary delays.

Customer Satisfaction.

While both mobile and stationary services aim for customer satisfaction, the personalized touch offered by a mobile car mechanic often results in a more gratifying experience. The direct interaction with the mechanic, the transparency in operations, and the tailored service all converge to enhance customer satisfaction, making it a preferred choice for many.

Integration of Technology

Booking and Scheduling Apps.

The rise of mobile auto service has been bolstered by the integration of technology. Booking and scheduling have never been easier. With user-friendly apps and online platforms, customers can pick a time slot, describe the issue, and even choose their preferred mechanic. This seamless digital experience adds another layer of convenience, marrying the traditional mechanics trade with modern tech solutions.

Real-Time Tracking and Updates.

Just as you track a food delivery, many mobile auto repair services now offer real-time tracking of your auto mobile mechanic. This feature ensures you’re not left wondering about their arrival time. Along with tracking, instant updates regarding repair progress, estimated completion times, and any unforeseen issues are communicated, keeping you in the loop at all times.

Digital Documentation.

Mobile car body repairs have also adopted digital documentation, eliminating the need for paper-filled glove compartments. Service histories, repair invoices, and maintenance reminders are all stored digitally. Not only is this an eco-friendly move, but it also ensures that all records are easily accessible and organized, simplifying future references.

Encouraging the Shift to Mobile Auto Repair

Educating the Public.

The transition to car mechanic home service hinges largely on public awareness. While many have experienced the convenience of mobile repairs, a significant portion of the populace remains unaware. Actively educating potential customers about the benefits, safety protocols, and efficiencies of mobile services is crucial. Workshops, online campaigns, and customer testimonials can play pivotal roles in dispelling myths and highlighting the advantages of mobile mechanics over traditional methods.

Addressing Concerns.

It’s natural for some to be apprehensive about a new service model. Concerns ranging from the quality of repairs to the security of having a mobile auto mechanic work outside a conventional garage setting may arise. By providing clear, transparent communication, offering service guarantees, and highlighting professional qualifications, these concerns can be effectively addressed, fostering trust in the mobile repair model.

Promoting Benefits.

To encourage a more significant shift towards car mechanic at home, the emphasis must be on promoting its inherent benefits. Marketing campaigns highlighting convenience, time-saving aspects, personalized service, and the integration of technology can paint a compelling picture. When potential customers can clearly see the advantages, they are more likely to make the switch.

Looking to the Future

Evolving Customer Expectations.

As with all service industries, the expectations of auto repair customers will continue to evolve. The growing preference for mobile mechanic auto repair reflects a broader societal shift towards valuing time and convenience. Service providers will need to stay attuned to these changing demands, continually innovating and adapting to keep their clientele satisfied and engaged.

Industry Adaptation.

The automotive repair industry, historically known for its reliance on traditional methods, is at an inflection point. As the demand for mobile car repair grows, there will be a parallel need for training, equipment upgrades, and operational changes. Embracing these changes, rather than resisting them, will be key for businesses aiming to remain relevant and competitive.

Potential Innovations.

The future of mobile auto service is rife with possibilities. From augmented reality-assisted repairs to the integration of artificial intelligence for diagnostics, the next wave of innovations is on the horizon. Collaborations with tech companies, continuous training, and customer feedback will drive these advancements, ensuring that the mobile repair industry remains at the forefront of both automotive and technological progress.

The automotive repair landscape is undergoing a transformative phase, fueled by the myriad advantages of mobile car body repairs and the integration of modern technology. As we’ve journeyed through the multiple facets of this innovative service, it’s clear that the traditional boundaries of automotive care are being redrawn. The convenience, efficiency, and customer-centric approach of mobile services have set a new gold standard.

Moreover, as technology continues to shape our world, its synergy with mobile auto service is poised to offer even more groundbreaking solutions. Whether it’s instantaneous diagnostics, virtual consultations, or even the potential of drone-assisted repair tools, the horizon is rich with possibilities.

However, the essence of this shift transcends technology and convenience. At its core, it’s about reshaping the customer experience, placing their needs, and preferences at the very center. It’s a testament to how industries can evolve when they align with the changing rhythms of their clientele.

Embracing mobile auto repair isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about heralding a future where service meets convenience at every turn, ensuring that car maintenance becomes an integrated, stress-free aspect of our daily lives. As we steer into this exciting future, one thing remains certain: the road ahead is paved with innovation and unmatched convenience.

How To Improve Your Business’s Payroll Process

admin

October 17, 2023

When you’re running a business, there are many things you need to look out for: retaining employees, keeping customers happy, increasing profits, and more. Another crucial thing you must consider is payroll processing; paying your employees and maintaining financial documents for your business. If you outsource, Payroll service costs can begin from $39 per month, but the price can increase based on the company size and the support you want.

You must manage your payroll correctly because it is your legal requirement; otherwise, you must pay fines or penalties. It helps retain employees by paying them accurately and on time, which helps boost their performance. Let’s thoroughly examine payroll processing and how you can improve it.

What Is Payroll Processing?

Payroll processing entails dispatching all employee salaries in a timely and efficient manner. You have to properly track, calculate, and distribute their payments while determining the right amount of money to withhold for taxes or the company benefits. HR and Finance departments typically handle payroll processing, but you can outsource or use a software platform to automate the process.

In the process, you determine tax codes and the company’s EIN or employer’s identification number given by the government to track payroll taxes. You can set your EIN on the IRS website. Gather your employee’s tax information; full-time employees may fill out form I-9 and establish a payroll schedule to determine payment schedule: it can be weekly, biweekly, or monthly.

Next, select how you will pay your employees, whether it’s through direct deposit, paper check, or payroll card. Develop a payroll policy that considers employees who are or aren’t eligible for overtime, time off, mandatory and voluntary payroll deductions, and more. Keeping that in mind, you can calculate each employee’s gross pay (total pay before deductions or taxes), then calculate employee deductions referencing their tax information and state requirements for tax withholdings. Other employee deductions include 401(k) investments or social security. Finally, calculate employee net pay.

How to Improve Payroll Processing

Now that we know the basics of payroll processing let us look at a few ways you can improve the process and make it more efficient.

1. Use Time Clock Software.

Regardless of your company size, You can use time clock software solutions to keep track of your employee’s attendance and work time, which aids payroll processing. As it is automated, it can reduce human errors that occur when manually putting in information, making payroll processing more accurate. Such applications help you keep track of overtime, sick time, paid time off, and more.

It’s also an unfortunate fact that not every employee is honest with their work. Almost 43% of all employees commit time theft, such as through buddy punching (their colleagues clock in or out for them when they aren’t on the job, and a time clock can hold them accountable.

To choose the right time clock software, look at the features available, such as time tracking, data analysis, billing and invoicing, and more. They should offer extensive or customizable reports to help you understand the data, and they should be able to manage how you pay your employees over time, if it can handle accruals and employee time offs. Finally, consider your budget, value for money, and if the software is easy to use.

2. Clearer Payroll Policies.

Payroll errors happen when your employees don’t understand the payroll policies or system because of limited access or lack of training. It should include:

How your payroll process works
Employee information
How salaries are set and calculated
How you calculate Promotions, benefits, and deductions.
Employee reporting requirements
How will you comply with applicable laws and regulations
Payment structure

Put it in writing and disseminate it to all your employees, and encourage them to ask questions if they’re confused so no future problems arise.

Endnote

Payroll processing is a vital part of your business, whether it’s small scale or large, you should ensure that you are carrying out the method accurately and efficiently. You can create clear and comprehensive payroll policies and invest in time clock software to improve the process.

The Issue Of Rising Pay For Attorneys And What May Be Driving The Salary Increases

Contributor

October 13, 2023

by Michelle Foster, Founder and Drew Foster, Managing Director — The Foster Group

Changes in associate compensation tend to be cyclical. Every few years, a handful of leading law firms increase the compensation scale. This signals Am Law firms, elite boutiques, and others that it is time to assess their own scales and consider the value of following suit.

After a relatively quiet three years in terms of associate compensation, the cycle has revved up again. This time, however, new developments in the legal field and beyond have resulted in new compensation trends. The ongoing changes, which started in 2021, have been more rapid and far reaching than those in previous cycles. Firms that want to stay competitive in this season should take note of what the leading firms are doing to attract top talent.

The key difference in this compensation cycle

A key difference with this cycle of compensation increase is the rapid succession with which it occurred. During the past two years, leading firms have introduced multiple increases to the scale. Special pay bonuses have also been more prevalent during that time period. As a result, salaries have increased by approximately 22 percent for the most senior associates in less than two years.

Another key difference is related to where these higher-than-normal increases are taking place. Typically, they are centered on major markets. In this case, however, numerous national law firms are paying top dollar for talent in regional markets. This is unique to this cycle and likely related to the increase in remote working arrangements driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The key factors driving the increase

At the top of the list of factors driving the present increase in associate compensation is a fierce competition for talent, which experts have come to describe as a pay war. There are currently incredibly high levels of competition amongst firms seeking to recruit and retain attorneys across multiple practice areas. Historically, the legal market experiences specific practice area demand that ebbs and flows as it relates to the broader economy. This market has seen sustained demand across multiple practice areas and attorney levels.

One example of an area where the pay war has had an impact is Mergers and Acquisitions and Private Equity markets. These are red-hot areas, with tremendous demand and competition for corporate attorneys, particularly more senior associates. Countless attorneys in this practice area have recently moved their careers forward in meaningful ways, whether it was elevation to Partnership or the ability to nearly double their compensation package.

Another factor that comes into play in the compensation picture is an increase in workload and responsibility. The pandemic brought with it a whole new set of legal questions and scenarios, some of which involved a high level of complexity. The need for legal guidance was felt from small businesses to the largest multinational conglomerates. When combined with demands prompted by a strong economy and booming deal market, these factors resulted in many firms experiencing a sustained rise in demand for their services.

This surge in demand resulted in many attorneys working tremendously hard without significant breaks, and exceeding their billable requirements. While the legal profession has historically been one in which attorneys expect to work long hours, the recent increase left many attorneys feeling that greater compensation is not only welcome, but appropriate.

One factor that should not be viewed as playing a significant role in the increase is the cost of living brought on by ongoing inflation in the US. The lockstep model utilized by many firms means increases are structured, well-defined, and connected to internal — rather than external — developments. Because lawyers tend to be familiar with a structured compensation model, cost of living increases are generally not expected nor granted.

The keys to effectively recruiting in this market

As more firms choose to keep pace with the increases, a variety of other factors become important for those who hope to win top talent. Firms that will excel at recruiting are those who will focus on understanding and acknowledging the professional and personal goals of the candidate, and effectively describing how joining the firm will help the attorney to achieve those goals.

Areas of interest that firms can highlight include:

Flexibility in terms of work from home policies.
Paths to equity partnerships.
Access to mentorship.
Flexible billing rates and alternative fee arrangements, both of which can make it easier for partners to build and grow their practice and maintain a satisfied client base.
Robust support for marketing and business development.

An effective recruitment process is also important in today’s competitive market. Firms that excel in this area have an efficient process that is handled by an effective recruiting department, who are diligent in selecting interviewers who are strong ambassadors of the firm. They paint a picture of an inviting culture and the value proposition their firm provides to incoming laterals.

Overall, the firms that end up with the most talented recruits — whether they are attorneys just starting their careers or those making lateral moves — will be those who can effectively communicate that the attorney’s skills and unique talents will be valued. Competitive compensation speaks loudly in that area, but it is not the only factor. Valuing the full range of career concerns will help firms to position themselves as the best option in this highly competitive market.

Michelle Foster is the founder of The Foster Group, a former litigation partner, and veteran legal recruiter with 20 years of experience. Drew Foster is the Managing Director at The Foster Group, a Senior Legal Recruiter specializing in the placement of Partners and Associate level attorneys.

AI Stats And Trends For Small Business Marketing

Contributor

October 11, 2023

by Dave Charest, Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact

Small businesses (SMBs) are a busy bunch. On any given day, they might be fulfilling orders, engaging with customers in-person, managing staff, doing their books — plus dozens of other tasks. Most would relish an opportunity to gain back an extra hour, or save some extra money.

Luckily, those goals (and others) are attainable thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) and marketing automation. These technologies can help small businesses work more efficiently, drive more sales, and improve the ways they are marketing themselves – without making it more of a headache or a time suck.

We recently published a report at Constant Contact called, Small Business Now: An AI Awakening, that outlines how SMBs are thinking about AI and automation, and some of the results that early adopters are seeing. With insights from nearly 500 small businesses across the U.S., the study reveals how these technologies can enhance marketing effectiveness and help SMBs save time and money.

If you’re curious about how AI can impact your business, here are the 10 stats about AI that you should know.

Challenge Accepted: 60% of SMBs say their biggest challenge is attracting new customers, while 39% say it’s marketing to their target audience.
Peaked Interest: 74% are interested in using AI or automation in their business, and 55% reported that their interest in using these technologies grew in the first half of 2023.
Off to the Races: 26% are already using AI or automation, and the top use cases are social media (52%), generative content creation (44%) and email marketing (41%).
Proven Success: 91% of the small businesses polled say AI has helped make their businesses more successful.
Reaping the Benefits: 60% of small businesses that currently use AI or automation in their marketing say they have saved time and are working more efficiently.
First step, Social Media: SMBs say the easiest places to start leveraging AI technology are social media, content creation, and analytics.
Financial Gains: 28% of SMBs expect AI and/or automation to save them at least $5,000 in the next year.
Increasing Efficiency: 33% of small businesses estimate they have saved more than 40 minutes per week on marketing by using AI or automation.
Top Concern: 44% of small businesses noted data security as their top hesitation about using AI.
Value Recognition: The more SMBs use AI, the more they value it. 70% of SMBs would be willing to pay more to access AI and automation.

So, what do all these stats mean? I’m glad you asked.

AI is here to stay. The small businesses who are currently using tools powered by AI overwhelmingly agree that it is making their businesses more successful. They are working more efficiently, saving money, improving customer experiences, and growing quicker.

So, if you’re an SMB who is either starved for more time in your week, or you want to improve the way you engage with your customers without adding extra marketing work to your plate, don’t write off AI as a passing trend. Give it a try and you might be surprised about the results you see.

Dave Charest is the Director of Small Business Success at Constant Contact. In his role, Dave acts as an educator and an advocate for small business leaders, marketing professionals, and nonprofits by providing them with practical marketing advice that can help them achieve their goals.

The Future Of AI In Construction

Contributor

October 9, 2023

by Matt DiBara, Co-Founder of The Contractor Consultants and Owner of DiBara Masonry

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in many industries lately. From the arguments over the benefits of (and possible downsides of) ChatGPT to how AI is helping in the medical field, there are few areas of life left untouched by the technological advancement of AI.

The construction industry is full of time-tested processes and age-old industry knowledge that has worked for generations to build our roads, our homes, our workplaces, and the infrastructure on which we all rely. However surprising it may be in an age-old industry, technological advancements are moving at a rapid pace. In a 2022 study, 92% of construction industry leaders said they were planning to integrate AI in some manner in their processes.

The blanket term “AI” describes the process of machine learning. It is not a new concept, having first emerged in the 1950s, but the capabilities of AI have grown exponentially in the past few years. Now the idea of AI encompasses such incredible tech feats as chatbots, self-driving cars, and robotics. There seems to be no limits to what AI can accomplish, and it is taking the construction industry to new heights.

Preconstruction AI

Before a hole is dug or a wall is assembled, there are many tasks that need to be completed in the preconstruction phase. This includes planning, logistics, hiring crew, and the design phase. During the conception phase, AI can be used to calculate whether a project is a good risk or how well a certain location may work in a city. Before millions are spent on big projects, project leaders can run risk assessments to ensure it is money well spent.

The design phase of construction has been influenced by technological advancements for some time, likely ever since AutoCAD broke onto the scene in 1982. AI can help with the design phase of construction in many ways. Designs can be analyzed to pinpoint any mistakes in design or anything overlooked in terms of safety or compliance. Energy efficiency can also be analyzed. New advancements in algorithms can create design ideas with a few clicks of a button, which can allow creative designers to visualize what a new project will look like upon completion — perhaps even suggesting design elements they may have never thought of before.

In the preconstruction phase, there can be mounds of paperwork required, from regulation and compliance documents to financing. AI can help construction management and leaders process spreadsheets, financial calculations, and all the paperwork necessary to get the project started — saving time and money.

AI can even be used in the hiring and team building phase of preconstruction. Machine learning has allowed human resource professionals to sort through many applicants to find the best fit for a particular job. Job training can even be enhanced with AI through interactive training modules and continuing education. Through these advancements, some of the most time consuming elements of the preconstruction phase can be quickly accomplished, and with better efficiency and accuracy than before.

The construction phase

During the construction phase, AI can be utilized every step of the way. Safety is a significant factor in construction. Technologies like robotics — which can accomplish some of the more dangerous tasks previously performed by humans — can help reduce worksite accidents. AI can also be used as a monitoring tool. By quickly analyzing compliance and safety regulation documents, AI can perform lightning-fast analysis of how safe a project site may be and where the potential risks lie.

Robotics have greatly improved in the past few decades. Now, it is possible to expedite the construction process with robotic welding, 3D printing capabilities, and even construction site surveillance when the workers are off the clock. Throughout the active construction phase, project managers are handling many logistical tasks that can also be aided by AI. Quality control and personnel management are just a few examples of project management tasks that AI can assist with, freeing project managers to have more boots-on-the-ground interaction with the project.

AI can even assist from a marketing and public relations standpoint. Some larger projects often face a litany of opinions, from people who live in the area, to workers who want information about safety and feasibility, to project leaders who have their eye on the bottom line. With highly intelligent AI programs such as ChatGPT, talking points can be organized, potential issues can be analyzed, and different groups can be properly addressed and have their questions resolved.

The post-construction phase

After the construction project is complete, the role of AI continues. AI can analyze the completed project to ensure compliance, safety standards, and quality standards are met. Simulations of the building project can help project managers pinpoint where things may need to be improved without the need for a physical “fine tooth comb” evaluation on-site. After the project is being utilized for its intended purpose, AI analysis can continue to crunch numbers and determine if the full potential of the project is being realized.

The future role of AI in construction

One of the biggest fears people have as AI rises to prominence is the threat to human jobs. With AI capable of accomplishing so much, it begs the question “what will the human role be going forward?” However, even with as intuitive as AI has become, it cannot replace the full capabilities of the human mind.

The construction industry relies on know-how, nuance, and creativity to continue to flourish. It also heavily relies on human judgment, born from hands-on experience. While AI will certainly shift some construction roles in the future, it also opens up a world of possibilities for roles for tech savvy individuals who may have not considered entering the construction trades in the past.

The AI market is expected to reach $407 billion by 2027. In recent studies, 64% of businesses believe AI will increase productivity within their industry, and a quarter of companies are already adopting AI processes, many due to industry labor shortages. AI is here to stay, clearly. By learning what the technology can add to the construction industry, we can be prepared for the pivot to come towards a more AI-centered landscape.

Matt DiBara is a fourth-generation mason of DiBara Masonry and the co-founder of The Undercover Contractor. He’s known as the ‘undercover contractor,’ who works with celebrity clients and everyday homeowners to provide advice and insight about managing construction projects.

A Customer Satisfaction 101

admin

October 6, 2023

Satisfying your customers will guarantee to help maintain their relationship with you so that they continue making purchases which will help benefit your sales and profit.

If you are a business owner who is not aware of how to improve customer satisfaction, then you have come to the right place. These top tips will ensure that you can maximize your customer satisfaction in no time.

Offer various payment method options.

Offering various payment method options will guarantee to make customers happy and satisfied. As well as offering cash options and PayPal you should also offer credit card checkout services.

You can set up credit card processing with this website and ensure to offer your customers as many payment methods as possible. When customers can pay using their preferred method, it will make them satisfied with your business as they can be sure their money is safe.

Show interest in new customers.

With new customers, it is important to show them interest. Existing customers will already know you are interested in them and care about their preferences, as you would have proved this already.

New customers will need extra-friendly service. Hence, asking them their name, preferences, and other questions will prove you care and it can help you give them what they want. As a result, you will boost their satisfaction.

Offer high-quality products and services.

The higher quality your products and services are the more satisfied customers will be when they spend their money with your business.

If your customer spends money and does not get a high-quality product or service in return then they will look elsewhere. Therefore, offering high-quality services and products from the get-go will guarantee that your customers will remain satisfied and feel that their money has been well spent.

Give all customers the best price possible.

Another way that your business can improve customer satisfaction is to give all customers amazing prices and deals.

If other companies offering a similar product or service to you offer a lower price then of course the customer is going to go to that business instead. However, if you are competitive and can offer the best prices and deals in the industry then of course you will win over business customers and ensure that they are satisfied when purchasing from your business.

Make your customer’s lives easier.

Making your customers’ lives easier will guarantee that they feel more satisfied when using your business. If a customer needs to do a lot in order to attain a product or service from you then of course they are not going to be happy.

Making your customer’s lives easier simply means making your business process seamless. For instance, ensuring that your website is easy to use and products are easy to purchase and quick to be delivered and guaranteed to feel customers’ expectations and lead to greater customer satisfaction. Your business will benefit massively from giving great customer service and ensuring that your customer’s lives are simple when using your business.

[Photo by Andrea Piacquadio]

Are You Customer-Obsessed? Here’s Why You Should Be

Contributor

October 6, 2023

by Robyn Rawlings, Director of Integrated Campaigns and Content Marketing at Webex by Cisco

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos said in 1999 that what matters most to him is providing the best customer experience he can to his consumers. In the same interview, he added “If there’s one thing that Amazon.com is about, it’s obsessive attention to the customer experience end to end.”

Decades later, Amazon never wavered from their commitment to customer obsession. In fact, it’s listed first among the company’s leadership principles.

From retail to tech, customer obsession is a foundational mantra that helps businesses excel. Let’s explore why this is the case and how customer obsession can benefit your business.

What is customer obsession?

Customer-obsessed organizations care first and foremost about one thing: constantly optimizing the customer experience (CX). They work continuously to collect feedback, understand consumer needs, and improve every interaction.

In doing so, businesses deploy a top-to-bottom customer-centric philosophy. From sales and marketing to frontline workers, the goal is to understand what consumers want and deliver on those needs in a way that doesn’t just satisfy customers, but delight them.

More than a strategy, customer obsession is a business model. By generating trust, commitment and loyalty, organizations can build a sustainable competitive advantage that keeps customers coming back for more.

Why is customer obsession important?

Have you ever wondered just how costly a bad experience actually is?

According to recent research, nearly $4.7 trillion are squandered every year because of poor customer interactions. Furthermore, 74% of consumers say they’re likely to buy based on experience alone.

Bottom line: CX management is make or break. But, with a customer-obsessed mindset, you can steer your organization in the right direction.

Here are a few ways a customer-obsessed philosophy can help drive better business results:

Retention: When consumers feel heard, seen, and valued, they’re more likely to stay with a brand over the long term. This is especially significant given that 71% of consumers switched brands at least once in the past year, often because of poor customer experience.
Lifetime value: Decreasing churn allows you to increase customer lifetime value—the total revenue a consumer generates over the duration of the brand relationship. By exceeding expectations and delivering on your promises, you can drive repeat purchases and cross-selling opportunities.
Acquisition: Over two-thirds of consumers are likely to recommend a company based on a single interaction. In short, satisfied customers are more willing to become brand advocates and refer others, thus increasing profitability and lowering cost-per-acquisition.
Reputation: Word-of-mouth spreads like wildfire. With a strong reputation for positive CX, you can earn more brand exposure, credibility, and organic growth—three assets critical to winning new customers and keeping them for the long haul.

While it’s undeniable that being customer-obsessed is critical to any business, a recent Forrester report found that only 3% of respondents were fully customer obsessed—meaning every department, every team, and every employee was fully dedicated to the customer’s point of view.

Strategies to build a customer-obsessed organization

Customer obsession is a top-down commitment that requires buy-in across the org chart. It’s not going to happen overnight, but with a few strategic decisions, you’ll be off to the races in no time.

Here are a few valuable ways to build a more customer-obsessed organization.

Impart empathy to your contact center.

Imagine calling into a support desk, waiting on hold for hours on end, repeating your issue over and over, and being redirected to the wrong departments. Finally, you’re speaking to the person who can fix your problem—unfortunately, they treat you like your problem doesn’t matter. That’s a bad customer experience.

In a lot of ways, customer obsession is rooted in just the opposite. To be obsessed with your customer is also to be obsessed with empathy — for their feelings, their situation, and for where they may be in the customer journey. Coaching employees — especially your contact center agents–to flex their emotional intelligence can make a huge difference. Seek to understand customer pain points so that you can develop solutions and experiences that leave a positive impression on your audience.

One way to ensure agents are practicing empathy is to analyze their call transcripts. Some contact center solutions automatically transcribe conversations, allowing supervisors to comb through the content and uncover any points of improvement.

Embrace a customer-first culture.

Place the customer at the heart of your company. Every decision, action, and process should be driven by a deep understanding of and commitment to meeting customer needs (and exceeding their expectations).

Many enterprises are already focusing on this area. Take Cover-More — a global travel insurance company — for example. With over 15 million customers globally, Cover-More knew in 2019 that it would have to place the customer at the heart of everything. When the pandemic hit, the company’s forward-thinking paid off. Having already upgraded its contact center technology and communication stack, the enterprise was well-positioned to offer an omnichannel, seamless customer experience at every opportunity.

Enable continuous feedback loops.

Feedback is the bedrock of customer experience management. To be truly customer obsessed, businesses must establish mechanisms and processes to collect insights from consumers at every touchpoint. These can include surveys, reviews, direct interactions — basically anything that synthesizes and gathers information. By analyzing these insights for root causes and customer sentiment, organizations can not only resolve issues more promptly, but optimize decision making based on how those resolutions are received.

Prioritize data-driven decision making.

They say data is the oil of the 21st century, so why not use it to fuel your business’s tenets for customer obsession? Because customer experience is so closely connected to bottom-line performance, any CX decision you make should be based on high-quality data.

One of the best ways to collect customer analytics is through a Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) platform. CCaaS tools automatically synthesize cross-channel insights, allowing agents to take real-time actions to improve customer satisfaction.

Personalize the customer journey.

Behind every consumer is an individual. Knowing this, customer-obsessed businesses aim to personalize CX by leveraging analytics. They use data to customize interactions, recommendations, and more, thereby adding a personal touch to every interaction.

CCaaS tools are great in this regard, as they can help you gather data as customers move along their buyer’s journey. This allows you to map their progress through every interaction, ensuring a seamless experience across each channel.

Robyn Rawlings is a successful marketing leader with over 20 years of experience in enterprise software and software-as-a-service (SaaS). She is currently Director of Integrated Campaigns and Content Marketing at Webex by Cisco, a leader in cloud calling, collaboration, and customer experience solutions.

Six Traits That Empower You To Lead Effectively In Any Environment

Contributor

October 3, 2023

by Robert L. Dilenschneider, author of “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know“

We hear it all the time: Change is the only constant. And as the business world grapples with seismic shake-ups in technology (AI being the most dramatic), skyrocketing inflation, shifting workforce priorities, and a growing emphasis on sustainability, that truth is hard to deny. There’s no doubt that leaders must adapt to survive. But at the same time, there are certain bedrock leadership principles that hold fast in the storm.

These timeless traits are more crucial than ever. They serve as a compass for overwhelmed leaders, keeping us grounded and oriented as we navigate the maze of modern business. Plus, they’re reassuring to employees and clients who also struggle to make sense of all the change swirling around us.

Here are six traits that every leader must cultivate if they’re to maintain their influence as the world around them shifts:

TRAIT 1: The ability to build strong relationships.

While technology has revolutionized communication, the essence of relationship building remains unchanged. A client, eager to harness the power of social media for a significant project, was advised, “There are seven people you need to reach. Get your message in front of those seven.” Eschewing the allure of digital platforms, the client personally connected with these pivotal figures and achieved remarkable success.

The lesson? In our interconnected world, genuine personal relationships still hold immense power. Identify key stakeholders, understand their backgrounds, and cultivate genuine connections. Make a list of people you would like to know in your field, the media, politics, or other realms. Then narrow that list to a manageable number. Research their backgrounds, such as where they went to school, what boards they serve on, their charitable causes. Then, find ways to regularly connect with them.

I know a fellow who wanted to reach three key people. He put their names in his electronic Rolodex, and when something would come up in the news related to their interests, he would contact them with the information. It was an enormous help in making connections. Don’t overdo it, of course. You want to be helpful, not pesky.

TRAIT 2: A sense of clarity around personal values.

With the dizzying forward pace of everything from technology to communication, one element must remain constant — our values. We must continue to give attention to our conscience, our core principles, our values. These are what give us true guidance.

I cannot tell you what your values should be; they are personal to you. But among them should be the commitment to helping others. That is how society functions best and how the human race improves.

Write down your core values. You might ask: Why is this important — isn’t it enough to just know them? When they’re written down somewhere, you can check now and then to make sure your behavior is consistent with those values. When they are aligned, they become your compass, and your unique purpose (or purposes) becomes achievable.

TRAIT 3: Integrity (especially when it’s hard).

Integrity isn’t just a trait — it’s a legacy. My father S.J. Dilenschneider, who ran the Columbus Citizen newspaper, when faced with the ethical dilemma of publishing a controversial story, chose journalistic integrity over financial considerations.

This decision, though initially costly, garnered respect and unexpected success from industry peers. The core message? In the fluctuating tides of business, integrity remains a beacon of trust and respect.

TRAIT 4: Clear, concise, and persuasive communication.

In our information-saturated age, clarity is paramount. It doesn’t matter how good your ideas are, or how eloquently they’re stated, if the listener can’t understand your meaning.

Many managers believe communication is just about how you say your message. But it’s solid thinking translated into clear messages. Before any communication, clarity of intent is crucial. Tailor your message, avoid clichés, and always prioritize precision.

Think about it this way: A CEO who communicates precisely to ten direct reports, who then each communicate with equal precision to forty more staff, will successfully align the vision with clear goals within the organization. Guessing or misinterpreting are replaced by clarity and direction.

TRAIT 5: Inclusiveness beyond buzzwords.

Diversity and inclusion might be trending terms, but their essence is foundational to effective leadership. Today’s leaders need to bring together diverse teams made up of lots of unique perspectives. Not only is this the right thing to do, it ensures a richer, more holistic decision-making process and makes your organization more prepared to tackle modern challenges.

Leaders like Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, exemplify this trait. Early in her leadership journey, Nooyi often found herself the sole woman and immigrant in meetings. She set about to make leadership more reflective of a diverse society.

TRAIT 6: Humility — the unsung hero of leadership.

Leaders often feel like they have to be the ones with all the answers, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Effective leaders get the best results when they have the humility to seek feedback and guidance from others.

Today’s most successful executives, who have built their teams wisely, do not think twice about asking subordinates, ‘What do you think?’. They understand that such a question is not a sign of weakness or insecurity but a tool to make their own performance and that of their company better.”

Alan Mulally, who took the reins of Ford in 2006, is a testament to the power of humility. At a time when Ford teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, Mulally didn’t resort to top-down directives. Instead, he sought ideas from all echelons of the company, valuing each contribution. His humility, combined with an inclusive leadership approach, catalyzed a remarkable turnaround for Ford in just three years.

In a world of continuous disruption, we need steadfast leaders more than ever. To commit to mastering the traits of effective leadership is a tremendous responsibility but also a source of great satisfaction.

There is something immensely rewarding about helping people get centered, tune out the tumult, and move forward in times of chaos. Leading is a form of serving humanity…and it’s reassuring that no matter what’s going on around us, the traits humans respond to haven’t changed.

How An Online Course Helped Me Realise My Dream Of Being A Technopreneur

Contributor

October 2, 2023

by Minna Lim, founder of LOVPIPO

We are all on our phones all the time, either on one app or another. So, I got an idea to create my own app but I didn’t have expertise, skills or the necessary funds to make the app a reality.

Luckily, I stumbled across Angela Yu’s app development course and I started from the basic “Hello World” course. I took Python programming, Flutter app development, IOS app development and UX design fundamentals. I learned everything I needed to know to create an app from scratch. These newly acquired skills and knowledge gave me confidence to pursue my app development dreams.

I am very active on dating apps, and that’s how I found several dating Apps to be lacking – either by design or in its security.

The primary focus with Lovpipo is nurturing meaningful connections between people, and this is done by encouraging real-life dating experiences rather than endless swiping.

My Tech-Entrepreneur Dreams Realised in Lovpipo

Lovpipo is a dating app that sets itself apart from other dating apps by providing free paid features that are normally charged by other dating apps. Lovpipo believes in offering users exceptional value for every dollar they spend.

While there’s an element of swiping, the relationship management software is also our “heart-ware” – combining technology with a human element.

The Lovpipo app offers 3 key functions to elevate the human experience:

Match Us Now – this feature allows users to find potential matches, based on listed preferences and start a conversation immediately.
Invitation – users can use this feature to invite all their preferred matches to date. The fastest responder gets the date.
Engage in a relationship – this feature allows for couples who dated on Lovpipo to plan their future together. Lovpipo rewards them for their relationship milestones such as marriage, and other anniversaries.

In an upcoming development, we’ll introduce a Lovpipo robot on the app to assist users with account registration, schedule dates with their preferred users and create topics in chat rooms.

Always have belief in yourself

I graduated with a degree in Food Science and had a job in sales. I had never worked in the tech industry nor in creating an app. These are not what you often hear about technology entrepreneurs!

When I got divorced, I was 37, a mother of three with not much savings, and absolutely no household help. My family and friends thought I was a dreamer when I quit my job to focus on building Lovpipo. However, I believed in my Lovpipo app concept and believed that I could persuade investors to invest in it. And so, I did.

Believe in yourself and don’t let “common sense” like lack of experience or working just to “pay the bills” get in the way of pursuing your dreams and passions.

Be open about learning new things – especially about yourself

On the tech journey, I spent nine months working without a salary before I met my investors and pitched my Lovpipo app.

I also spend a lot of time reading books. It allows me to connect with my inner self, and gain a deeper understanding of my purpose in life. It’s given me a sense of calm and inner confidence because now I know who I am, where I’m headed and how I’ll get there.

In developing any app, you’re bound to face difficulties. Whenever I face challenges, I remind myself to trust the universe and be grateful for what I have. I believe that everything is arranged for me, and I just have to go with the flow.

My advice to other aspiring female entrepreneurs

There were so many things I have learnt and I am still learning on this entrepreneurship journey.

1. Give yourself more time to achieve your goal realistically.

I spent nine months without salary before I got investors for Lovpipo. These things don’t happen overnight.

2. Listen with an Open Mind.

This is crucial because the advice others give you, can prepare you for potential opportunities that come your way. These opportunities could lead to a significant breakthrough in your career or journey to being an entrepreneur.

3. Know Your “Why”.

I was a single mother of three. My reason for exploring the tech industry is because I believed in my idea for Lovpipo. I also believe that a job in tech would help me provide better opportunities for my children. This, coupled with my passion for the app I was going to build, pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and boldly explore opportunities in the tech industry.

Minna Lim, founder of relationship management software LOVPIPO, is a new entrepreneur exploring the mobile app service business.

A New Framework To Inclusive Language

Contributor

September 29, 2023

by Suzanne Wertheim, PhD, author of “The Inclusive Language Field Guide”

I’ve developed a simple new framework for people who want to harness the power of inclusive language. People who want to make sure that they’re paying attention. People who want to use language to build and improve their relationships and to create and maintain connection.

After I left academia, I started consulting for organizations that want to use more inclusive and appropriate language. For years, my clients have come to me because they feel overwhelmed by all the information out there on inclusive language. It’s often in bits and pieces, it’s sometimes contradictory, it feels scattered, and they can’t figure out how to apply knowledge from one short list of “bad” and “good” words to other areas. The fact that interpretations are so context-dependent can make things feel even more complicated.

So I’ve created an organizing system for you. It’s my Six Principles of Inclusive Language.

Each principle has been reverse-engineered to address problems I’ve seen in my years of consulting and research — research that is based on multiple languages in multiple countries. So even though the examples in this book will be focused on English as spoken and written in the United States, the principles can be applied to any language in any location. If you are Deaf and in the US, you can straightforwardly use my examples for written English but will need to translate into equivalents for sign language. And if you speak English in another country, you might have to do some translation work when it comes to the specific examples I use. But the principles I’m illustrating with those examples will hold true.

In addition, each principle is based on a foundational truth about what creates feelings of connection, safety, and trust in all kinds of relationships, including the relationships between companies and clients.

Finally, each principle is designed to hold steady even as language changes and evolves. Words that are considered acceptable today may become unacceptable in just a few years, but the principles you can use to evaluate these words will stay the same.

Together, these six principles can be used as a powerful checklist to evaluate language:

Reflect reality.
Show respect.
Draw people in.
Incorporate other perspectives.
Prevent erasure.
Recognize pain points.

If you follow these principles, you’ll be speaking and writing inclusive language. And you’ll be able to explain to people in a clear and scientific way what’s wrong with problematic language.

In order to reflect reality, it’s important to use appropriate pronouns and accurately refer to gender, which is more than just a binary. I’ll also show you three problematic ways that language is commonly used to distort reality.

To show respect, you must avoid giving unconscious demotions — those snap judgments where you assume someone has a lower-prestige job than they actually do. (Or when someone who is just going about their day is assumed to be dangerous or a criminal.) And you must understand how important it is to say and spell names correctly, avoid using unwanted nicknames, and address people respectfully without misgendering them.

To draw people in, you need to learn about pejoration and how negative cultural attitudes can turn neutral words into insults. You must also understand the concept of markedness and how it underpins the subtle ways that language can suggest that race only involves people who aren’t white.

To incorporate other perspectives, you must know the importance of thinking through the ways other people’s lived experiences might be different from your own. There are some subtle ways that pronouns such as you, we, and everybody can exclude people who haven’t been taken into account.

To prevent erasure, think about the negative effects of phrases like “you guys” and contrast it with the ways that gender-neutral language includes people instead of erasing them. Know the importance of avoiding misnaming, using language that reflects that there are multiple skin tones, remembering and including indigenous history, and remembering and including sexual orientations beyond heterosexual.

Finally, in order to recognize pain points, learn how to give compliments that land well and how to avoid compliments that show inappropriately low expectations. See how important it is to learn about and avoid lightly referencing painful experiences that have been glossed over in white or Western history, such as dictatorships, genocide, and chattel slavery.

If you focus on the activities for one principle each month, by the end of six months, you’ll have a whole new toolkit for inclusive language. You’ll be able to speak fluently in ways you couldn’t without practice. When you encounter questions about whether or not language is inclusive, you’ll be able to evaluate that language using the six principles as a checklist. And you’ll be able to make well-informed choices that let you harness the power of inclusive language.

*Excerpted with permission from Berrett-Koehler Publishers, from the book “The Inclusive Language Field Guide” by Suzanne Wertheim, PhD, 2023.

Suzanne Wertheim, PhD is a national expert on inclusive language and an international keynote speaker with more than two decades of experience researching and speaking about inclusive language. She is also the author of “The Inclusive Language Field Guide: 6 Simple Principles for Avoiding Painful Mistakes and Communicating Respectfully“. Dr. Wertheim currently serves as the CEO of Worthwhile Research & Consulting, which specializes in analyzing and addressing bias at work.

Why Speed Matters In Alcohol Delivery & Distribution

admin

September 27, 2023

The modern consumer landscape has dramatically shifted in favor of instant gratification, fueled by the rapid advancement of technology. This change has not only reshaped the way we shop but also significantly influenced our expectations around delivery speed. For alcohol brands operating in this swiftly evolving milieu, understanding and meeting this demand for speed is more critical than ever.

Rise of Instant Gratification

In our current setting, consumers have grown accustomed to instant gratification, expecting products and services immediately. This part explores how this “now” mentality has significantly altered the landscape for alcohol e-commerce, making speed a pivotal competitive differentiator.

“Now” Consumer Mentality.

Just a decade ago, waiting a week for a product to arrive was considered normal. Fast-forward to today, and the concept of “waiting” has nearly become obsolete. Today’s consumers expect almost immediate results, a phenomenon amplified by the advent of alcohol e-commerce. The convenience of ordering a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer with just a few clicks has escalated consumer expectations to new heights. They want it not tomorrow, not in a few hours, but ideally, right now.

Speed as a Differentiator.

For alcohol brands, competing on price or quality is no longer enough. Speed has emerged as a critical competitive differentiator in the crowded marketplace. This shift makes sense, considering the growing direct-to-consumer alcohol sales channels. If two brands offer similar products, consumers are likely to opt for the one that can get it to their doorsteps faster. Speed in delivery and distribution has, thus, become a focal point that can make or break a consumer’s relationship with your brand.

Why Speed is a Game-Changer

Speed in alcohol delivery isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer that can significantly impact customer loyalty and brand reputation. This part of the article sheds light on how prompt deliveries can convert casual buyers into repeat customers, ultimately boosting your sales and solidifying your brand’s image.

Customer Loyalty & Satisfaction.

In the alcohol industry, where choices are abundant, earning customer loyalty is a steep hill to climb. However, timely delivery offers a straightforward path to the top. Brands that prioritize swift and accurate deliveries can convert one-time buyers into long-term customers. Notably, a seamless alcohol checkout experience combined with speedy delivery can significantly heighten customer satisfaction, ensuring they return for their next purchase.

Tangible Benefits for Brands.

Increased Sales – It’s simple economics: The more satisfied a customer is, the more likely they are to make a repeat purchase. Fast delivery often culminates in positive customer reviews, which can drive new customers to your brand. Consequently, adopting fast alcohol order fulfillment services can trigger a chain reaction that results in increased sales and customer acquisition.

Fewer Cancellations – The clock starts ticking the moment a customer completes a purchase. The longer they wait for the product to arrive, the higher the chance they will cancel the order. Fast and accurate deliveries can significantly reduce these order cancellations, maintaining the integrity of your sales figures.

Strong Brand Image – Building a brand is more than just producing quality products; it’s about delivering a complete, satisfying experience to the consumer. The speed of delivery can reinforce your brand image as dependable and attuned to customer needs. This reliability can be a deciding factor for consumers when selecting between competing alcohol brands.

Pitfalls of Slow Delivery

Slow and unreliable delivery isn’t just a logistical concern; it’s a direct threat to your brand’s reputation and financial stability. In this part, we discuss the numerous pitfalls, from eroded customer trust to financial repercussions, that can result from lagging behind in the race for speedy deliveries.

Loss of Trust – A delay in delivery can lead to irreversible damage to a brand’s reputation. One late delivery can result in negative reviews, and in the world of online sales, bad reviews can be devastating. When customers lose trust in your ability to meet their expectations, it’s challenging to win it back.

Financial Repercussions – Apart from the loss of customer trust, slow delivery also carries financial pitfalls. Delayed orders can mean holding onto inventory for longer periods, resulting in increased storage costs. Furthermore, lost sales due to canceled orders directly affect the bottom line, shrinking profit margins.

Erosion of Competitive Edge – Timely delivery is not just about pleasing your current customers; it’s about staying ahead of your competitors. Brands that fail to deliver promptly risk losing market share to competitors who can meet or exceed customer expectations for speed. Being fast has become a requirement, not a luxury, to maintain your competitive edge.

Strategies for Speed

While recognizing the importance of speed is crucial, implementing it practically demands strategic planning and effective use of technology. This segment will offer actionable strategies for alcohol brands, including optimizing internal processes and leveraging software for beverage companies, to improve their delivery times.

Streamlining Operations.

One of the first steps in ensuring rapid delivery is to optimize internal processes. Comprehensive training of staff, paired with efficient software for beverage companies, can facilitate quicker order processing, packing, and delivery, thereby significantly reducing delivery times.

Use of Technology.

The use of state-of-the-art technology is not optional; it’s a necessity. Real-time tracking, automated sorting, and AI-driven route optimization are just some of the technological advancements that can speed up deliveries. Additionally, integrating these tech solutions into your existing operations can offer a significant competitive advantage.

Seasonal & Geographic Planning.

Understanding seasonal demands and geographic distribution patterns is crucial for fast delivery. The ability to forecast demand and plan logistics accordingly can prevent delays and, as a result, elevate customer satisfaction.

Partnering for Success

In the intricate dynamics of alcohol distribution, who you partner with for fulfillment can make or break your venture. This portion of the article outlines the critical factors to consider when selecting a fast alcohol order fulfillment service and discusses the long-term benefits of such a partnership.

Selection Criteria.

Choosing the right fast alcohol order fulfillment service is akin to choosing a business partner; your brand’s reputation depends on it. Factors such as reliability, speed, flexibility, and technological capabilities should be high on the checklist when making your selection.

Long-Term Benefits.

A lasting partnership with a reliable fulfillment service can offer sustainable growth and stability for your brand. Besides the immediate benefits of speed and efficiency, such a partnership can free up resources, allowing you to focus on core business areas like product development and marketing.

In an age where time is often viewed as more valuable than money, the significance of speed in alcohol delivery and distribution cannot be overstated. From cementing customer loyalty to maintaining a competitive edge, fast delivery serves as a cornerstone for success in today’s consumer market. Alcohol brands aiming to solidify their market position must prioritize speed in their delivery and distribution strategy.

By taking proactive measures, they can not only meet but exceed customer expectations, thereby cementing their status as leaders in the ever-competitive world of alcohol e-commerce.

Using Chargebacks As A Quick-Fix Solution Yields Negative Consequences For Consumers

Contributor

September 27, 2023

by Monica Eaton, Founder and CEO of Chargebacks911

Online retail has replaced the in-person shopping experience of sipping an Orange Julius while store-hopping and browsing through clothing, music, electronics, and any number of personal necessities or gifts. It’s no wonder over one-third of the world’s population has wholeheartedly embraced eCommerce, leisurely clicking here and there until they find exactly what they’re looking for. And despite the onslaught of new digital currency, the humble credit card remains the most popular method of online payment. But one nuisance has traversed from the old ways to the new: returning items that failed to satisfy.

Like all things in the digital era, consumers expect a quick and easy resolution devoid of resistance. Happy to oblige, banks have fast-tracked this process by allowing consumers to initiate chargebacks, obtaining lightning-fast refunds without giving merchants a chance to make things right. While the chargeback process was created to protect consumers, the quick-fix solution has led to misuse and abuse that incurs costs for all parties involved — consumers, banks, and merchants.

The Rise of Credit Card Fraud and its Financial Impact

In 1974, the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) was passed into law to protect the increasing number of cardholders in the United States from unfair billing practices. It granted consumers the right to dispute charges with their credit or debit card issuing banks to reverse transactions, also referred to as “chargebacks.” Chargeback rights apply to various situations, such as unauthorized charges, billing errors, undelivered merchandise, misrepresented goods or services, or fraudulent activity.

In the decades following the FCBA’s passing, credit and debit card fraud has continued to rise in step with the wide-sweeping adoption of card use, pummeling consumers, banks, and merchants financially. Recent studies reveal alarming statistics regarding the monetary impact of fraud in the U.S, with card-not-present fraud leading trends that outpace transaction growth in the same genre. In 2022, 65% of cardholders in the U.S. reported being victims of fraud, with nearly half experiencing fraud multiple times, costing consumers $8.8 billion in that same year, a 44% increase from the previous year.

This financial burden, however, is not confined to consumers. The payments industry as a whole is expected to sustain damages exceeding $206 billion in 2023, much of which is a result of first-party fraud, otherwise known as “friendly fraud.”

Why Is Friendly Fraud So Common?

What many people don’t realize is that the majority of chargebacks, up to 75%, are not the result of third-party criminal fraud—such as identity theft or stolen card numbers—but rather first-party fraud, dubbed “friendly fraud.” First-party fraud is committed by the cardholder themselves, and includes the misuse and abuse of the chargeback process. This happens when cardholders unknowingly or knowingly exploit this protection mechanism.

For example, one of the most common instances of friendly fraud stems from unrecognized billing descriptors, where consumers don’t immediately recognize a transaction on their card’s billing statement and assume criminal fraud has been committed. They quickly contact their bank to report the transaction as fraud and get their money back. Due to the arduous process involved in rectifying an invalid chargeback, the majority of these claims are written-off by either the merchant or their bank as a cost of doing business.

Chargeback misuse escalates into abuse when virtual shoplifters game the system to get something for free, sometimes double-dipping by requesting a chargeback from their bank and then requesting a refund from the merchant without returning the merchandise, causing the retailer to refund the fraudster’s money twice.

A telling survey revealed that 23% of consumers confess to intentionally disputing purchases as fraud despite having received a product or service that they were completely satisfied with.

Negative Consequences for Merchants, Banks, and Consumers

Friendly fraud has negative consequences for all parties involved, with merchants suffering the most substantial financial losses. It is estimated that chargebacks will cost merchants over $100 billion in 2023. To put into perspective the associated costs of invalid chargebacks inflicted on merchants, resolving every $1 of fraud in dispute costs merchants $3.75. This is in addition to compounded losses from lost sales, unreturned merchandise, chargeback fees, and customer loss.

Another factor contributing to the rise of friendly fraud is convenience. When given the choice, consumers would rather report and resolve transaction disputes in one easy phone call, which is exactly what many issuing banks offer. In fact, a Chargebacks911-led consumer survey found that 87% of respondents contact their bank rather than the merchant to resolve a dispute because banks offer faster resolutions and are typically more understanding.

While cardholders may be appeased, many consumers are unaware that contacting their bank instead of the retailer has far-reaching effects—including on the consumer themselves. Chargeback misuse and abuse triggers increased prices on goods and services to offset shrinking margins and burdens borne by the merchant, causing consumers to suffer more restrictive policies from merchants. Additionally, cardholders who file excessive chargebacks may also become blacklisted by certain merchants and face unexplained transaction declines from their bank.

Breaking the Cycle: Revolutionizing Chargebacks

While banks have a responsibility to protect their customers and themselves from fraudulent activities, the prevalent practice of filing chargebacks as a first resort perpetuates a harmful cycle. Breaking this cycle requires a revolution in the way merchants, banks, card networks and consumers think about chargebacks.

One report suggests that 80% of chargebacks could be prevented if consumers contacted the merchant first to address their concerns, so for merchants looking to compete with the convenience of a cardholder’s bank, it’s important they prioritize customer-centric strategies. Emphasizing transparency and having customer support readily available can make customers feel comfortable approaching them first to resolve any issues. Merchants should also have terms, conditions and return policies clearly stated to avoid miscommunication. Lastly, merchants should provide tracking numbers for shipments and provide customers with updates on potential delays. This can provide customers with peace of mind on their purchase and help merchants avoid chargebacks filed due to shipping issues.

While improving practices and standards for merchants is absolutely recommended, without similar consideration taken on the other side of the coin, the idea that merchants alone can change the tide is ill-conceived. If the goal is to resolve this problem, we must address the cause—not the symptoms—of chargebacks. At a high level, this involves three areas of concern:

First, as an industry, we must confront the unfair bias of current regulations that consider merchants guilty until proven innocent, and treat all chargebacks as equal when in fact there are many nuances. Today, chargebacks serve as just a reprimand to merchants where even if proven invalid, merchants and banks still suffer a penalty. Chargebacks should only carry a compliance statistic if the chargeback is found to be valid and not friendly fraud.
Second, merchants and banks should be incentivized to exchange more information about the charge, especially for card-not-present transactions where “unrecognized charges” account for the majority of disputes. Fear of compliance fines, administration costs and reputational harm is driving write-offs and reducing incentives to exchange chargeback information between merchants, banks and card networks, which today is the only way to identify and avoid rewarding friendly fraud behavior. To reduce costs and success in creating a sustainable model, merchants and financial institutions should have access to workflow automation tools that help exchange data in real time.
Third, consequences must exist equally and without prioritizing the needs of cardholders above merchants. There is currently no direct consequence to those who commit friendly fraud or first-party misuse, which encourages repeat behavior and further deters viable solutions. Similar to how credit scores were developed to help monitor and restrict financial loss while advocating for productive consumer behavior, chargeback abuse incidents should carry a similar penalty that is instituted as an industry mandate to ensure new standards are maintained and not just sanctioned and siloed.

Bottom line, when merchants and banks write off invalid claims without addressing them, valuable feedback is lost, further reinforcing counterproductive behavior. Allowing fraudulent chargebacks, such as first-party fraud, to go unaddressed is unfair to merchants, banks, and consumers themselves. But this also deprives stakeholders of constructive feedback that can inform better decisions, reduce unnecessary declines, and prevent future fraud and disputes. Resolving this problem through removing bias, siloes, and improving collaboration will not only redefine chargebacks, but help ensure economic integrity and sustainability for us all.

Monica Eaton is the Founder and CEO of Chargebacks911. Chargebacks911 is the global leader in chargeback and dispute remediation technology. As a provider and supplier to financial institutions and merchants, Chargebacks911 safeguards more than 2.4 billion transactions per year on behalf of its clients in 87 countries around the world.

The Future Is Bio: Navigating The Startup Scene In Biotechnology

admin

September 27, 2023

The startup landscape has always been characterized by its dynamic nature, promising opportunities, and inherent challenges. Biotechnology, with its blend of biology and technology, is fast emerging as one of the most exciting fields for entrepreneurial ventures. But like any industry, the path to success is fraught with obstacles.

In this article, we’ll explore the landscape of biotech startups and provide pointers on how to navigate this thrilling yet challenging terrain.

1. Understanding the Biotech Boom.

There’s a palpable excitement around biotechnology, and it’s not hard to see why. As we advance in understanding genetic codes, cellular processes, and molecular mechanisms, the potential applications are staggering. From revolutionary treatments for diseases to sustainable agricultural practices, biotech promises to shape the future in myriad ways.

Biotech startups play a pivotal role in this narrative. These nimble ventures, unencumbered by the bureaucratic processes of large corporations, can innovate, experiment, and iterate rapidly.

2. Key Areas of Focus.

Not all biotech startups are created equal. The sector is vast, encompassing various subfields:

Medical Biotech: This encompasses drug discovery, personalized medicine, and regenerative therapies.
Agricultural Biotech: Here, the focus is on creating drought-resistant crops, improving crop yields, or developing eco-friendly pesticides.
Industrial Biotech: Startups in this space often explore biofuels, bioplastics, and even bio-based chemicals.

3. Navigating the Investment Landscape.

Biotech startups are unique in that they often require significant capital upfront, especially in the R&D phase. Traditional venture capitalists might be wary due to the high risks and long timelines. However, organizations like BioTech Venture Capital specialize in funding promising biotech ventures, understanding the industry’s intricacies.

4. Leveraging Collaboration for Growth.

Collaboration is the lifeblood of biotech startups. Whether it’s partnering with research institutions, collaborating with larger pharmaceutical firms, or even teaming up with other startups, collaboration can significantly expedite R&D processes. One such company, Wheeler Bio has mastered the art of collaboration, leveraging shared resources to propel their biotech solutions to the forefront.

5. Regulatory Hurdles.

One of the most significant challenges for biotech startups is navigating the maze of regulations. Especially in the medical biotech space, getting approvals can be time-consuming and expensive. Resources like Biotech Regulatory Affairs can offer guidance and insights to startups, ensuring they remain compliant while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

6. The Power of Networking.

Biotech, despite its heavy reliance on science, is still very much a people-driven industry. Attending industry conferences, joining biotech-focused incubators, and participating in webinars can open doors to invaluable connections. These networks can lead to collaborations, investments, or even acquisitions.

7. Embracing the Ethical Dimension.

Biotech startups, given their influence on life at the cellular and molecular levels, wield immense power. With this power comes the responsibility to operate ethically. This isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s also good for business. An ethically run startup is more likely to gain the trust of investors, partners, and the public.

8. Staying Informed.

The biotech landscape is evolving at a breakneck pace. To remain competitive, startups need to stay informed. Subscribing to journals, following industry news on platforms like BioTech Daily, and participating in webinars can keep startups at the cutting edge of innovation.

9. Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone.

Failure, as any seasoned entrepreneur will attest, is an integral part of the startup journey. In biotech, where experiments and hypotheses are the order of the day, failures can offer invaluable insights. Embracing these setbacks, learning from them, and iterating based on these learnings can pave the way for eventual success.

Conclusion: The Thrilling Journey Ahead

The biotech startup scene is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding entrepreneurial landscapes out there. The potential to make a tangible difference, be it in medicine, agriculture, or any of the numerous biotech subfields, offers a unique allure. With the right resources, networks, and mindset, the future indeed is bio!

Venture Capital: A System Built On Trust

Contributor

September 26, 2023

by Elizabeth Zalman and Jerry Neumann, coauthors of “Founder vs Investor: The Honest Truth About Venture Capital from Startup to IPO“

Right at the beginning of books about venture capital is where the paean to startups and Silicon Valley usually goes. I believe in the Silicon Valley–style venture capital system — it’s behind the majority of the most innovative companies of the last fifty years — but if you want to read about that, pick up literally any other book on venture capital. I want to focus here on the one improbably important thing that makes it all possible: trust.

Every day, people I have never met, and usually never heard of, email me and ask me for money. I read all these emails, take them seriously, and sometimes, after a few weeks of work, decide to write them a check. On the face of it, this sounds insane and, in some ways, it is. I’ll lie awake at night, wondering what the hell I’m doing. Why should I believe I can give a complete stranger money, based primarily on a mostly unverifiable story they are telling me, and hope that I would ever see any of it again, much less make money doing it? The intricate sequence of events that has to happen between me writing a check and someday getting a bigger check back is unlikely, to say the least.

You probably also get emails (check your spam folder) promising you vast amounts of money if you just spend a little bit of money up front. You know these are scams; what makes the emails I get different?

The difference is the aforementioned Silicon Valley–style venture capital system. Liz likes to say it’s a construct. It’s a system people built over time to make giving money to strangers more appealing. It is based on an understanding shared between founders and investors about how market value is created, what constitutes progress along those value creation paths, how that progress is measured, and what it’s worth along the way. It depends on a community of investors who share information, trust each other’s opinions, and can roughly predict how the other will act. It depends on founders believing in making founding their profession (at least for a little while), finding other founders to mentor them, and being willing to take a big risk — not the risk of starting a company, that’s an ordinary risk, but the risk of partnering with someone who will give them money but demand shared control of their startup.

And last, it depends, and mainly so, on founders and investors believing that the other will follow these norms even when times are tough or there’s easy money to be made by ditching them. It depends on a certain kind of trust: not necessarily personal trust, but trust that founders and investors will each follow the rules, through good times and bad.

The system doesn’t always work. Every year some venture capital–backed company turns out to be a fraud. But, despite hindsight-looking bystanders exclaiming that giving money to strangers is doomed to fail, these frauds are rare enough or small enough that the system overall still makes sense. It’s the more run-of-the-mill failures, the ones that rarely hit the media and are ambiguously described when they do, that threaten the system. These failures happen when things are not going perfectly — and they only rarely do — and either the founder or investor decides to bend the rules in their favor.

The rules of the system constrain both founders and investors. Each of them agrees to these constraints for different reasons. For investors, it’s primarily about the money, but it’s more than that. The rules stop the VC from maximizing their returns at the expense of the founder and other VCs, for instance. This is not a legal constraint, it’s just how the system operates. A VC who ignores this rule will find they are not welcome in future deals. Other areas of investing don’t have these sorts of rules. VCs accept these constraints because they believe they are doing something more worthwhile than other investors: They are promoting human progress.

Founders, also, agree to the system for more than money. They need money, of course, but for them money is a means, not an end. Just like you don’t go to the hardware store to buy a tool, you go to get what you need to finish a project, founders don’t go to VCs for money, they go for help realizing their vision of building a company.

The system promises both founder and investor that they can be successful while getting what they want. It does this by making money the medium: Investors have money, founders need money. And it rationalizes their different goals — self-realization and pro- moting progress — by denominating success in money. This is fine when everything is going well. But when things aren’t going well, the symmetry breaks. When their goals and the path to riches start to diverge, founders may care more about their vision than making as much money as possible. Meanwhile, investors may decide that promoting progress is less important to them, in the end, than maximizing their returns. When this happens, when the founder and investor goals are no longer aligned because their definitions of success no longer agree, the system starts to break down.

*Excerpted from “Founder vs Investor: The Honest Truth About Venture Capital from Startup to IPO” by Elizabeth Zalman and Jerry Neumann. Copyright © 2023 by Gerard Neumann and Elizabeth Joy Zalman. Used by permission of HarperCollins Leadership.

Elizabeth Zalman is an infrastructure and information security expert and two-time founder/CEO of venture-backed companies, building her first startup to a successful exit and her second to a multi-hundred-million-dollar business. She has raised more than $100 million from the top VCs in the world. Liz has also never shied from a showdown with them, or anyone, really.

Jerry Neumann is a twenty-five-year veteran of venture capital. He was one of the first investors in some of the most successful venture-backed companies of the past three decades, including Datadog and The Trade Desk, and has worked alongside dozens of entrepreneurs as investor, board member, and advisor. He was named one of the most important VCs in New York and one of the 100 best early-stage investors by Business Insider. Jerry teaches entrepreneurship and innovation at Columbia.

Crafting A Solid Construction Business Plan: Key Elements And Tips

admin

September 26, 2023

According to data from the U.S. Small Business Administration, approximately 50% of businesses in the US fail within the first five years. This statistic underscores the challenges that entrepreneurs face when starting a new business. It’s important for them to be aware of this and plan accordingly to increase their chances of success. Simply put, if you are thinking of starting your own construction business, you need a solid business plan to guide your decisions and actions.

A business plan is a document that describes your business goals, strategies, market analysis, financial projections, and operational details. It helps you to clarify your vision, secure funding, attract partners and customers, and manage risks and challenges. It also helps you to prepare for the struggles you will inevitably face as a business owner to give you all the tools you need to help ride the wave, and give your business every chance possible to survive.

But what makes a construction business plan different from other types of business plans? What are the specific elements and considerations that you need to include to reflect the nature and challenges of the construction industry? In this article, we will answer these questions and provide you with some tips on how to write a compelling business plan for your construction business.

A construction business plan should include the following key elements:

Executive summary

This is a brief overview of your business idea, goals, mission, and value proposition. It should capture the attention of potential investors and stakeholders and summarize the main points of your plan.

Company description

This is where you provide more details about your business, such as its legal structure, ownership, location, history, and competitive advantages. It should identify and analyze the target market segments, such as landowners, developers, architects, or homeowners, and explain how the company will meet their needs and expectations.

Products and services

This is one of the main areas in which a construction business plan differs from a business plan for other businesses. This is where you describe what you offer to your customers, such as the types of construction projects you specialize in, whether you will be offering products (such as building materials like concrete reinforcement) or services (like structural engineering, for example), the quality standards you follow, the benefits and features of your services, and how you differentiate yourself from competitors.

Marketing plan

This is where you outline how you will promote and sell your products and services to your target market. It essentially needs to provide a competitive analysis of the construction industry, including the market size, growth outlook, major players, and competitive landscape. It should also highlight the company’s competitive advantages, such as its skilled contractors, unbeatable pricing, or ethical practices. Along with other tools, you should conduct a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) to identify your competitive position and market opportunities.

Aside from the market analysis, you also need to consider and plan how you will sell your products or services. What marketing channels will you utilize? How effective will they likely be? How can you combine different platforms to create funnels? How will you monitor this process?

Operational plan

This is where you describe how you will run your business on a daily basis, such as the equipment, materials, labor, suppliers, subcontractors, licenses, permits, regulations, and insurance that you need. Aside from setting up defined work processes, the legal points mentioned are arguably one of the most important parts of this. Any mistakes in this area could mean disaster not only for your business, but also your livelihood. You should also include your organizational structure, roles and responsibilities, hiring and training plans, and quality control measures.

Financial plan

This is where you provide your financial projections for the next three to five years, such as your income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, break-even analysis, and funding requirements. You should also include your assumptions, risks, and contingency plans.

A construction business plan should be clear, concise, realistic, and persuasive. It should also be updated regularly to reflect changes in your business environment and performance. To craft a solid construction business plan, you can use online templates and tools or consult with professional advisors. Of course, alternatively, you can hire a professional writer to create a customized business plan for you.

Unveiling The Hidden Genius Of Leadership

Contributor

September 25, 2023

by Polina Marinova Pompliano, author of “Hidden Genius: The Secret Ways Of Thinking That Power The World’s Most Successful People“

In the leadership space, our perceptions of a great leader often revolve around the image of a powerful CEO or a military commander. However, true leadership extends far beyond these conventional notions, encompassing roles such as parent, teacher, or older sibling. In my book, author of “Hidden Genius: The Secret Ways Of Thinking That Power The World’s Most Successful People“, I challenge these stereotypes by sharing some more unique approaches to leadership. By turning the traditional pyramid structure upside down, people can discover their hidden genius and foster an environment of innovation, collaboration, and growth.

My research reveals that the most effective leaders are those who prefer to work behind the scenes, focusing their efforts on enabling and empowering their teams. This viewpoint is exemplified by the stories of visionary leaders like Daniel Ek, the mastermind behind Spotify’s success.

Ek’s leadership journey at Spotify offers a prime example of how the inverted pyramid approach can revolutionize organizational dynamics. Ek’s philosophy involves actively empowering his employees to drive the company’s evolution. Innovation, values, and strategies originate from the team while leaders in the C-suite offer resources and support to execute these ideas efficiently.

Let’s look at Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” feature. When Ek initially questioned its value, the team persevered. The result was a groundbreaking product that transformed user experience and cultivated a culture of ownership and empowerment among employees.

Restaurateur Danny Meyer perceives himself as a “bottom-up manager,” believing that leaders should foster an environment where employees can thrive. Meyer’s leadership philosophy, evident during crises such as 9/11 and the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasizes the importance of cultivating trust. Trust empowers employees to take calculated risks and propel the company forward, even in the face of adversity.

The pandemic provided a test for the effectiveness of this leadership model. Meyer’s response exemplified the potential of empowering teams during times of crisis. With 19 restaurants closed and 2,000 employees laid off, Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group faced unprecedented challenges.

In response, Meyer and his team created the employee relief fund. This initiative not only supported former employees but showcased how a bottom-up leadership approach can stimulate innovative problem-solving. By creating an environment where team members feel valued and supported, leaders convey a clear message: “I believe in your success just as much as my own.”

The journeys of Daniel Ek and Danny Meyer during crises demonstrate the potential of empowerment, collaboration, and trust in fostering innovation and growth.

In an ever-evolving world, we are reminded that leadership transcends roles and positions. The essence of leadership lies in our capacity to empower and enable those around us, nurturing a culture of innovation and collective triumph.

Polina Marinova Pompliano, author of “Hidden Genius: The Secret Ways Of Thinking That Power The World’s Most Successful People“, is founder of The Profile, a new media company that features longform profiles of successful people and companies each week. Previously, she spent five years at Fortune where she wrote more than 1,300 articles and earned the trust of prominent investors and entrepreneurs.

The Pros And Cons Of Artificial Intelligence And Virtual Reality In Education

Contributor

September 22, 2023

by Aaron Rafferty, CEO of BattlePACs

While artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) have recently gained popularity, these technologies have actually been around for decades. When it comes to applying them in the field of education, AI is still in its infancy, but VR has long been used for training purposes.

In this article, I’ll take a look at how these technologies have been used in education in the past, consider their pros and cons, and explain how incorporating them in today’s schools will likely affect students.

How VR has been used in education

As far back as the 1960s, medical students have received training through computer-generated environments. By working on a virtual patient before real people, young surgeons obtained more confidence and an edge over others who hadn’t used VR during their education.

In the 1970s, NASA used VR to simulate different environments for astronauts before missions. NASA funded a project called Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) that allowed people to create 3D objects using a computer program and share those files online with other people across the world. At the time, this was revolutionary because it allowed anyone with access to a computer and an internet connection to take part in these simulations — and do so virtually.

Computer-generated environments were also used to help astronauts learn about space stations, ships, and other vehicles they would use during their missions. The idea was that if an astronaut could familiarize themselves with this equipment in a virtual environment, they would be less likely to be surprised by something unexpected when they actually dealt with the real thing.

VR has also been used in military training. Military engineer Thomas A. Furness III is often called the “Grandfather of Virtual Reality” for developing virtual flight simulators that helped US Air Force pilots learn to fly. Another example is the Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3) simulation system, which was developed by Bohemia Interactive Simulations and the United States Marine Corps (USMC). VBS3 offers realistic virtual battlefield environments for soldiers to train in that can include ground forces, air support, and even naval units.

In the past, VR has mostly been used for the specialized training of adults. Only recently has the technology advanced to the point that it may help fulfill the educational needs of schoolchildren.

The AI education revolution

Computer scientist John McCarthy coined the term “artificial intelligence” in 1955, defining it as “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines.” The field was given a lot of attention in the late 1980s and early 1990s when machines began to show promise of someday becoming capable of doing many tasks that are considered “intelligent,” such as learning and problem-solving.

Today’s AI is not a single machine but rather a collection of technologies that improve specific tasks through machine-learning systems and algorithms that can learn from past experiences. In fact, there are several distinct types of artificial intelligence — from simple machine learning to deep learning — each based on different algorithms and programming techniques.

While AI has been around for decades, it doesn’t have the same long history of usage in education as VR. That changed abruptly in late 2022 when the arrival of ChatGPT caused a splash. Suddenly, students had a free, easy way to generate essays and complete their homework assignments. Teachers, administrators, and school board members have been forced to wrestle with a slate of unforeseen new questions: What can be done to ensure students do their own work? What skills should students learn in this new era of AI?

It would be a mistake, however, to believe that AI does nothing but threaten students’ learning. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this technology in the realm of education.

The pros of AI and VR for education

The first benefit of AI and VR is that evidence suggests these technologies do improve students’ learning outcomes. One recent study in Frontiers found that “introducing VR and AI technology into art education and encouraging students to carry out deep learning can significantly improve student concentration and creativity.” A 2022 meta-analysis found that “AI has significantly improved children’s concepts regarding AI, machine learning, computer science, and robotics and other skills such as creativity, emotion control, collaborative inquiry, literacy skills, and computational thinking.”

Since these technologies immerse students in novel environments, they are more engaging and interactive than traditional classroom activities. For instance, through AI and VR, students can access 3D models, virtual tours, games, and simulations. With their senses and emotions engaged, students become more willing and able to learn. A sense of fun and a spirit of exploration attracts them naturally even to complex concepts as lesson plans transform into new adventures.

AI and VR can also provide personalized learning experiences. When an individual student indicates a desire to dig deeper into a subject, for instance, these technologies respond automatically, providing follow-up resources in the blink of an eye. They can also answer students’ questions in real time. Finally, they can track and evaluate students’ progress, adjusting students’ timelines as needed and allowing learners to proceed at their own pace.

In this way, AI and VR can help automate tasks that otherwise would require a teacher’s time and attention. In effect, they become teachers’ new 24/7 assistants. This frees educators to focus on the more important elements of teaching and learning — building authentic connections with students, gleaning the particular motivations of each, serving as appropriate role models, and helping to guide their personal development.

In addition, gaining experience with AI and VR in school will likely help many students later in life. According to an article from PwC, “51% of companies are either in the process of integrating VR into strategy, or have already built VR into at least one dedicated line of business.”

The cons of AI and VR for education

On the other hand, AI and VR technology can be expensive, and not all schools have the necessary budget for hardware and software. These technologies would also require additional technical support, an ongoing expense that may be difficult for schools to provide.

Furthermore, incorporating AI and VR does require a substantial time commitment. Additional staff training would be required to teach teachers how best to use this technology. A study has also shown that students need to go through a learning curve while learning how to use VR technology. Only after they have gotten comfortable with the equipment, interface, and software can they learn about other subjects with it.

Another problem is that, currently, limited applications in the education field specifically leverage AI. While VR programs for schoolchildren do exist, the current number of offerings is quite small. In addition, the risk of students being exposed to inappropriate content or experiences is real. At their present stage, AI and VR can be difficult to monitor and regulate.

Only a small amount of research has been done to date about the effectiveness of AI and VR in education, making the results of any one study inconclusive. One recent study found “no significant differences in learning” between undergraduates who were given a VR experience and those who did a hands-on activity or completed a desktop simulation.

However, the same study did find that men with prior video game experience outperformed other kinds of students. “These differences may indicate certain groups have an advantage in the VR setting,” the authors write. Many educators would rightly be concerned about the learning gaps that could emerge among different student demographics as AI accelerates the progress of some and not others.

The very novelty of these approaches can also be expected to create resistance from stakeholders who prefer more traditional schooling. For instance, many AI products today raise concerns about plagiarism. Therefore, decision-makers at existing educational institutions may find it difficult to marshall the necessary support for this change.

Why it matters

Incorporating AI and VR might not be the right choice for every school at present, but these technologies are here to stay. There’s no way to roll innovations like ChatGPT back into the past, but neither should we want to. As these tools continue to improve, we can expect exciting developments in this field.

With time and experience, developers and educators will find increasingly effective ways for AI and VR to help students reach their full potential. In the process, AI and VR will change education forever.

Aaron Rafferty is the CEO of Standard and Co-Founder of BattlePACs, a subsidiary of Standard. Aaron unlocks value for individuals, institutions, and companies by leveraging technologies like Blockchain, AI, cloud, and social media. Aaron’s primary focus is to build products that enhance engagement and productivity for college students.

Keeping Your Business Property Running Smoothly Behind The Scenes

admin

September 22, 2023

Running a successful business involves not only delivering high-quality products or services but also ensuring that your business property operates smoothly behind the scenes. The efficiency and functionality of your property can significantly impact your overall operations, employee productivity, and customer satisfaction.

Below are some essential aspects of keeping your business property running seamlessly.

1. Regular Maintenance Checks.

Routine maintenance checks are the foundation of a well-functioning business property. This includes inspections of all systems and components, such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and security systems. You should have a clear maintenance schedule and keep detailed records of inspections, repairs, and upgrades.

2. Professional Contractors.

Hiring reliable and skilled contractors is crucial for maintaining your property. Consider contracting professionals for specialized tasks like HVAC maintenance, electrical repairs, and commercial plumbing services. These experts can identify and address any issues before they become major problems.

3. Energy Efficiency.

Optimizing your property for energy efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also supports sustainability efforts. Invest in energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems, and implement measures like insulation and sealing to reduce energy waste.

4. Security Systems.

Protecting your business property against theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access is paramount. Install and maintain a robust security system; this should include CCTV, access control systems, and alarm systems. Test your security measures regularly to stay ahead of potential threats.

5. Accessibility Compliance.

Ensure that your property complies with accessibility regulations, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes providing accessible entrances, restrooms, parking spaces, and signage. Compliance not only avoids legal issues but also ensures that your property is welcoming to all customers and employees.

6. Pest Control.

Pest infestations can harm your property and affect employee morale. Implement regular pest control measures to prevent infestations. Work with professional pest control services to identify and address pest issues promptly.

7. Groundskeeping.

Maintaining the exterior of your property is essential for creating a positive first impression. Regularly mow lawns, trim bushes, and remove debris. Ensure that walkways and parking areas are well-maintained and safe.

8. Waste Management.

Efficient waste management is essential for maintaining a clean and safe property. Partner with waste disposal companies to ensure that trash and recycling are collected regularly. Encourage recycling and sustainability practices within your organization.

9. Insurance Coverage.

Review your property insurance coverage to ensure it adequately protects your business against potential risks and losses. Work with an insurance agent to assess you the suitability of your policy and make any necessary adjustments.

10. Budget Planning.

Maintain a well-structured budget for property maintenance and improvement projects. Allocate funds for routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and long-term upgrades to ensure the property’s longevity and functionality.

In conclusion, keeping your business property running smoothly behind the scenes requires proactive planning and regular attention to various aspects of property management. Prioritizing maintenance, energy efficiency, security, accessibility, and disaster preparedness can help create a productive and safe environment for your employees and customers. By investing in the ongoing care of your property, you not only protect your business investment but also enhance its overall success.

Caught Up In An Employee Conflict? Here’s How To Get Out Of The Middle.

Contributor

September 21, 2023

by Jo Anne Preston, author of “Lead the Way in Five Minutes a Day: Sparking High Performance in Yourself and Your Team“

One of your employees is butting heads with a colleague, and they’ve come to you for help solving the problem. This is what you hear: “I can’t talk to So-and-So about this; they’d blow up and make my life miserable,” or, “I tried to smooth this over, but it didn’t work,” or, “You’re our leader; can’t you help?” All of these complaints are typically accompanied by the disclaimer, “Don’t tell anyone I talked to you about this!”

If just reading this gives you a sinking feeling, you’re not alone. Few leaders relish the task of refereeing between team members. But managing employee conflict comes with the territory.

When people with different personalities, priorities, work habits, and communication styles work together, conflict is inevitable. What shouldn’t be inevitable is you, the leader, being in the middle of every disagreement. Leaders need to learn how to empower employees to resolve these conflicts independently.

Yes, certain situations necessitate a leader’s involvement — for instance, when a standard of behavior has been violated or when emotions are dangerously high. But be careful. If you play referee (or savior, or disciplinarian, or confidante) too often, team dynamics like communication, trust, and morale will be negatively impacted. Your involvement may even make things worse if you’re seen as taking sides or overreacting.

I’m not saying you should refuse to help when employees are struggling, but in most instances, your help should come in the form of coaching and support. Your goal is to facilitate discussion, clarify boundaries, and ensure that the conversation remains civil and respectful. While this might be uncomfortable for all parties — at least initially — the result is worth the work. Conflict that is transformed through honest and safe dialogue, that you as a leader can foster, will create a trusting team that performs.

Here are seven ways to stay out of the fray the next time conflict is brewing:

Take a look in the mirror: Why does this keep happening?

Ask yourself: What am I getting out of this “being in the middle” position? (Feeling needed? Avoiding a difficult conversation myself?) What role am I playing in this drama? (Savior?) Have I fully accepted my leader role, or do I feel torn between being a part of the team and being a leader? (Feeling rejected?)

Listen to both sides.

By giving only one employee your ear, you unintentionally give that employee the advantage. Remember that there are two equally legitimate sides to each story. You almost certainly are not getting the full picture from an employee who has a grievance.

When a conversation goes down this road, bring the other person into the discussion immediately. Despite our intentions, we can often be easily swayed by whoever’s opinion we hear first.

Know the difference between “venting” and “gossip.”

Venting about the frustrations of a busy day is one thing. But a complaint session dedicated to griping about a coworker? That’s gossip and should be nipped in the bud.

Allowing a team member to gossip implies that you think gossip is okay. It’s not. Not only is gossip unproductive, it usually exacerbates existing issues, breaks down trust, and contributes to team dysfunction. When someone is venting to you about a coworker, suggest that the employee shift into problem-solving mode to turn it into a discussion that can get results.

Be prepared to help employees develop conflict management skills.

It’s not enough to tell employees, “Talk to the person yourself.” This might take the burden off your shoulders in the short term, but it isn’t going to solve anything if your employee isn’t sure how to proceed.

Consider how hard it is for most of us to have difficult conversations even with training! We must teach people the skills they need to have difficult conversations and provide plenty of support before and after. This might include clarifying an employee’s understanding of what a colleague’s duties actually are, brainstorming possible solutions, providing sample scripts, and reviewing what language is likely to escalate or de-escalate the situation.

Resist the urge to “collude” with the complainer.

Maybe the complainer is your friend, or perhaps you even agree with them. That’s all the more reason to set clear boundaries and avoid taking sides.

Encouraging trust and a level playing field is crucial if you truly want employees to manage their own conflict. Remember, even if your words are impartial, you won’t have credibility if your body language doesn’t match. Pay attention to your tone of voice and to nonverbal cues like eyebrow raises, shrugs, head shakes, and ‘knowing’ looks that might imply an unspoken agreement.

Increase your presence.

Sometimes we are so focused on our work that we miss our team’s interactions with one another. Pay attention to workplace dynamics. Reinforce the behaviors you want to see and coach your employees to do the same. Make it your goal to catch all job performance issues early on so your employees don’t have to be the ones to inform you when there is a concern brewing.

Leaders can often prevent conflict from cropping up in the first place if they notice the warning signs. It’s much easier to address a potentially problematic behavior, bad habit, or performance issue one-on-one with an employee before it begins to affect others.

Discuss your expectations with the whole team.

Let them know up front that you don’t intend to be the default workplace referee, but you are available to help them sort out conflicts. Preston suggests offering coaching to employees who want to reconcile with their coworkers but don’t know how, setting up a meeting with both parties to facilitate a discussion, and helping them create a workable solution.

By supporting your employees while they take the lead, you are encouraging teamwork and cooperation, not to mention subtly reminding them that they are all equally important. But one thing is crucial — do not let employees come to you with problems they don’t intend to follow through on.

As leader, your commitment doesn’t apply to one employee over another. Helping team members navigate conflict while taking a step back yourself can be tricky, but it is vital to maintaining trust and morale in your workplace. Best of all, when employees learn to navigate disagreements and advocate for themselves, they’ll be developing skills that will facilitate innovation and collaboration in the future.

Jo Anne Preston is the workforce and organizational development senior manager at the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative, where she brings over four decades of her healthcare leadership experience to designing and delivering leadership and employee education for rural healthcare throughout Wisconsin and the U.S. She is the author of “Lead the Way in Five Minutes a Day: Sparking High Performance in Yourself and Your Team“, and writes a monthly leadership blog.

Is It Time To Reinvent Yourself? Four Ways To Know You’re Ready For A Career Pivot

Contributor

September 20, 2023

by Robert L. Dilenschneider, author of “The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know“

A few short years ago, the pandemic set off a wave of soul-searching about the role work plays in our lives. Some lost their job and had to reskill, some retired early, and some left for better opportunities. In general, there’s been a collective realization that life is too short to stay in an unfulfilling job. Hopefully, the worst of COVID-19 is behind us — but here in 2023, many of us are still feeling a nagging sense of discontent.

We absolutely need to heed that quiet voice whispering that it’s time for a change.

Work is meant to be meaningful. We’re not supposed to endure a boring or unfulfilling career until it’s time to retire. Sometimes we need to pivot — and that’s a scary prospect.

A life-altering career move can be controversial. It’s so much easier to stay snugly in your comfort zone. But when you take that leap, you’ll feel better about yourself — sometimes much better, and you actually might do some good along the way.

When faced with these heavy choices, it’s always helpful to take inspiration from others’ success stories. Below are some accounts and advice from other entrepreneurs who took a chance — and succeeded.

First, here’s how to know when to make a move:

You’re bored.

Have you ever dreaded going back to work the next day? Does the thought of your daily tasks in the office make you long for something — anything — else? Perhaps you have a talent or skill that you’re not getting to employ. Are you searching for a way out?

James Patterson did too. Before the author became a household name, he was a copywriter working in a Manhattan-based advertising agency, J. Walter Thompson. Even while leading the creative team, he garnered little satisfaction from the simple ads he was writing for green beans and playing cards, and he knew he had to quit.

Patterson hasn’t stopped writing books. His career change was good for him — he’s sold more than 400 million copies — and for his legions of loyal readers.

Your conscience is nagging at you.

This was the case when I worked for Hill+Knowlton as a fresh graduate. I adored my work and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming president and CEO. That is, until I was asked to do something I considered unethical by upper management. Without any safety net to fall into, I quit my job.

This was September 1991, and newspapers wrote about my departure. I refused to say why I’d suddenly left, and this is the first time I’ve talked publicly about the reason. Personal integrity is important to me.

Eventually, with some advice from trusted partners, I started my own hugely successful public relations agency. Today, The Dilenschneider Group is going strong, with top companies and individuals as clients for more than three decades.

You see an opportunity to make a difference.

There’s also Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, former COO of Starbucks. She had a satisfying career before 2020. But as she watched communities being slammed by the effects of the virus, she knew she had to step in.

In 2021, she left her stable job and became CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, which helped to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to communities. With this single move, Brewer became the highest-ranking Black CEO on the Fortune 500 list of top executives in the country, where she is now using her position to bring attention to multiple concerns and crises concerning women.

One day you realize your career no longer “fits.”

Maybe you can feel your priorities changing. Maybe you’re getting older and want to make meaningful, lasting relationships with coworkers. Or perhaps you want to become an advocate for a community.

Kim Malek, weary from her weekly trips between Seattle and New York for her corporate job, was longing for something closer to home. She wanted to know her employees, coworkers, and neighbors, and wanted to be able to walk her dogs.

She didn’t let the risk of failing stop her. With a cousin, she cofounded Salt & Straw, an ice-cream shop with specialty flavors that quickly became a hit. That was 2011. By 2022, she had over thirty locations and annual revenues reaching the millions.

If you’re thinking about making a career pivot, I offer the following advice:

Don’t worry about going backward.

When you shift gears while driving, there’s always going to be a second or two of lag, but ultimately, you get where you are trying to go. The same can be said for careers. There’s Sheryl Sandberg, who early in her career went from a team of tens of thousands at the U.S. Department of the Treasury to a team of just four at Google, on the fear of moving backward:

“There are so many times I’ve seen people not make that jump because they’re afraid they’ll…‘move backward,’” she said in the When to Jump podcast in 2017. “If you can financially afford it, and you’re gonna work the next, I don’t know, thirty years, who cares about ‘going down?’”

It’s fine to try something completely different.

Ina Garten, the host of the Food Network’s Barefoot Contessa, is an example of what can happen when you’re willing to follow your gut and make a move that’s completely unexpected. Fans of her many cookbooks might be surprised to learn that in her twenties she was a staff member of the White House’s Office of Management and Budget.

“There’s got to be something more fun than this,” she recalled in a 2016 TIME story. “And then I saw an ad for a specialty-food store for sale in the New York Times, and it was in a place I’d never been before: West Hampton. So my husband, Jeffrey, said, ‘Let’s go look at it.’ To say that I knew nothing about what I was getting myself into was an understatement. I’d never run a business before, never even had employees working for me. But when I saw the store, I thought, ‘This is what I want to do.’”

Being willing to take a risk, and listening to that inner voice, led to an astonishing career for one of America’s most prolific cookbook authors.

Come up with a pivot plan.

Start by simply focusing on what you enjoy doing. Why do you enjoy it? Does it give you satisfaction? Are you willing to commit yourself to it? Will it require further education? But before you enroll in an expensive program, do your research to determine whether that degree is truly necessary. If it is, can you pursue it after joining a company that contributes to its employees’ education? Is there other training that will position you to get into a new field? Find a mentor who can advise you on what you need.

You’re going to feel fear (and for good reason). Push through it and make the leap anyway.

I recalls my “terrified” state of mind when he left Hill+Knowlton. My main concerns were his wife and children. What was I going to do, I asked myself. How was I going to tell my wife, Jan, that I had walked away from a powerful and lucrative position? We had two young sons to raise.

As it turned out, my (seemingly very valid) worries turned out to be unfounded. By the time I got home after lunch with a couple of trusted colleagues, I had received calls from Chase, W.R. Grace, Dun & Bradstreet, and Ford Motor Company — they all wanted to do business.

Sometimes when you decide to take control of your own fate, the universe opens up for you. It’s funny how that works.

Even if it doesn’t all come together immediately, if you’re doing what makes you happy rather than what others expect of you, you won’t regret the hard work.

There may be moments of fear and doubt and even despair that come with the exhilaration. That’s life. But the brand of growth and resilience that come from reinventing yourself and building a career that means something can’t be earned any other way.