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Best Backdrop for Video Calls

December 22, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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More people are working remotely and when it comes time to talk, a video call is increasingly the preferred method. And if you want to look professional when you are on a video call, having a good backdrop goes a long way.

The background in your video calls is a representation of who you are. If it is clean, organized and it doesn’t distract from the conversation, your peers will appreciate your effort. Not only that, but it helps everyone focus on the conversation at hand.

Without the distraction of unwanted items or clutter in the background, you can do your job more effectively. The backdrops on this list will showcase the most important aspect of a video call, you.

Best Backdrop for Video Calls

Elgato Green Screen

Top Pick: This backdrop is ideal for tight spots while the green screen allows you to create virtually any background you want. The screen comes with a collapsible chroma key panel that auto-locks for easy management. The fabric is made with wrinkle-resistant polyester. It comes with a nifty pneumatic x-frame that automatically locks the screen in place. Moreover, you can retract the backdrop into the hard case and store it easily. It extends to 58.27 x 70.87 inches and has a sturdy aluminum frame.

Elgato Green Screen with collapsible chroma key panel for background removal with auto-locking frame

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Yeele Bookcase Backdrop

Runner Up: Yeele’s bookcase backdrop provides a comfortable and familiar setting for video calls. It offers privacy and prevents distractions from cluttered backgrounds. This backdrop comes in at 7 x 5 feet and it is made with vinyl that is non-toxic, acid-free, recyclable, and weighs just 0.33 pounds. Optional sizes also come in 5 x 3 feet; 5 x 4 feet; 6 x 4 feet; and 7 x 5 feet. The material is non-reflective to help minimize light reflection and it is also fade resistant.

This Computer-printed backdrop is ideal for different still and video backgrounds. And the company provides a wide range of images covering numerous themes.

Yeele Bookcase Backdrop Wooden Bookshelf Books Library Artistic Portrait Photoshoot Photography Background

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Westcott X-Drop 3-Pack Backdrop Kit

Best Value: With three 5’X7’ portable background as part of the deal, Westcott delivers a great value. The black, white, and gray backdrops are water-resistant, washable, and reflection-free. And they come with a collapsible aluminum stand that weighs under 3 lbs. with a durable fabric case for compact storage and travel.

The X-Drop’s telescopic frame expands to 5′ x 7′ and locks into place. Backdrops attach to the X-Drop’s hooks via built-in grommets. You can complete the backdrop set up quickly and easily.

Westcott X-Drop 3-Pack Backdrop Kit (5′ x 7′) Quick Assemble, Portable Background

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Webaround Gen2 Portable Webcam Background

Webaround’s portable webcam background weighs just two pounds, so it is very portable. It fits snugly on most office, gaming and even dinning room style chairs and is available in blue, green and gray for a nice and clean webcam background. Made from polyester and steel, it is designed to quickly collapse and store. The dimensions are 52 x 1 x 52 inches, which is enough to adequately create a solid background.

Webaround Fan Favorite Gen2 Portable Webcam Background, 52 Inches

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Glass Window Photo Backdrop Office Viewing

If you want the iconic skyscrapers of NY City as your backdrop this is the way to go. Starting at 5’X3’ the company can make the image as large as 15’X10’. Made of vinyl, it provides high image quality and durability. And if NYC cityscape is not your cup of tea, the company offers many other images.

Glass Window Photo Backdrop Office Viewing New York City Side Photography Background

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Kate Collapsible Backdrop Blue Pink Popup Backdrop

At 5’X6.5’, this backdrop is double-sided with blue and pink colors. There are also other color combinations available from the company. A durable, collapsible metal spring frame inside the backdrop makes it easy to store in the packing bag. Made from no wrinkle microfiber fabric, the color won’t fade. And if you want to have a custom pattern print on it, the company providers the service.

Kate 5×6.5ft Collapsible Backdrop Blue Pink Popup Backdrop for Photography Foldable Backdrops

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Savage Vinyl Backdrop

Savage Universal is a company that has been providing paper backgrounds and photographic products since 1937. This matte finish vinyl backdrop is easy to hang and it provides a solid, flawless background while eliminating glare. It is easy to clean, and you can even cut it to fit the background in your office or other space.

Savage Vinyl Backdrop – Photo Gray, 5’x7′

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Features to Look for in Backdrops for Video Calls

Color: Choose colors that are easy on the eyes, such as blue, light gray, and soft white. Loud colors and patterns are distracting and they can also make it harder to see you clearly.
Material: Look for materials that are easy to roll and deploy for your background. Make sure to also choose materials that are easy to clean and are durable. If you have your company name/logo on it, get quality print that won’t fade or wash off when you clean it.
Size: The backdrop should be big enough to cover you entirely on all sides.
Retractable or permanent: If you choose a retractable backdrop, the mechanism for retracting the backdrop has to be strong. Look for a reputable company that offers some protection. A permanent backdrop is easy to use and will be there at a moment’s notice, but unless you have a dedicated office/space it can be distracting when not in use.
Ease of use: An easy to use backdrop will let you get on a video call quickly. Even if you have time, it should be easy to set up and get talking.

Your Video Call Protocol

If you are on a video call on a regular basis, set up a protocol to follow each time. This will ensure the people who talk to you get the best audio/visual experience when they interact with you.

Here are some steps you can follow to make this possible:

Dress as for an in-person meeting (this means top and bottom, you never know when you might have to suddenly stand up to get something).
Don’t have things that distract you on your desk (food, drinks, phone, or anything else). Keep your desk organized and have the things you need for the call at an arm’s reach. If the meeting is long, have some water away from the camera.
Try to have natural light. If it is not possible, side lighting will deliver the best image. And remember don’t mix both sources of light.
Place your camera just a little over your eye level and look at it during your call.
Your audio should turn off/mute when you are not speaking. And when you are ready to speak try to let the people in the call know by giving a visual signal. This helps avoid the on and off cutting that takes place in video calls.
Sit slightly back than you usually do at your desk. The goal is a mid-range image that includes your head at the top of your shoulders. Take pictures or record a video to find the sweet spot.
Don’t sit too close to your backdrop. If you have space, have at least four to six feet from the backdrop and make sure it covers the whole of your background.
If you can, try to have a room that is dedicated to your video calls.

The Importance of Video

Video is now part of the way we communicate at work and in our personal lives. Knowing what makes your calls appear professional each and every time is a skill set you must learn. And a good backdrop is just one of the tools you are going to need to make it happen.

Image: Depositphotos.com

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Shoppers Say They Do More In-Person Purchases Once COVID Vaccine Rolls Out Nationally

December 21, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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56% of consumers plan to shop more in-store following the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine. Around 67% of shoppers say the deployment of the vaccine will not alter how often they shop online.

These important consumer statistics were unveiled by a study by DealAid, a charity that partners with businesses to raise money for good causes.

COVID Vaccine Will Increase In-person Shopping

The ‘Covid-19 Vaccine’s Impact on Retail & Ecommerce’ study focuses on discovering how consumer behavior will change with the rollout of vaccines. The researchers surveyed over 1,000 US consumers to find out about their shopping plans and to gauge understanding on how the vaccine will impact retail.

DealAid’s research provides important insight for small businesses as they continue to navigate uncertain and challenging waters. With more than half (56%) of consumers saying they plan to shop more in-store after the vaccine rollout, small retailers would be wise not to rule out opening physical stores.

By the same token, with around 67% of consumers indicating they will not change their current online shopping behavior, small retailers would be savvy to maintain online selling activities.

The authors of the report summarise the impending demand for both in-store and online shopping in the wake of the vaccine rollout:

“Based on the data we collected, more people will shop in-store and spend more money on certain product categories within 1-6 months of COVID-19 vaccine rollout. While many consumers have indicated that they will also reduce their online spending, the majority have said that they do not plan to change their online shopping behavior despite imminent release of the vaccine,” the authors wrote.

How Much Will Shoppers Spend In-Store?

The survey asked participants how much more they plan to spend in-store. It found that shoppers plan to spend $176 more per month in-store after the vaccine is rolled out to the public.

Though there’s a flipside to the extra spending among consumers. Customers say they plan to spend an average of $171 less per month online.

What Type of Items Will Consumers Be Buying In-Store?

The types of items consumers plan to buy online and offline were also explored by the survey. Clothing is the most popular item that shoppers plan to buy in-store. 75% indicated they will purchase more clothing and accessories in-store after the mass rollout of the vaccine.

Almost 42% of participants say they will purchase less food and groceries online after the widespread deployment of the vaccine.

Nearly 63% of consumers say they expect to start shopping less online within 1 – 6 months after the vaccine being released to the public. More specifically, 35% indicate they expect to shop less online within 1 – 2 months of the vaccine rollout.

The research provides retailers with important insight into expected consumer trends. Small businesses would be wise to keep an open mind about selling online and offline. Depending on what they sell, it may be prudent that retailers work towards having an omnichannel selling presence as we move into 2021.

Image: Depositphotos

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What is a CRM? Definition, tools, types and examples

December 20, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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What is a CRM?

CRM, in English Custormer relationship management, is a term that refers to the practices, strategies and systems that companies use to manage and analyze interactions with customers and the data that is generated. The goal is to improve service relationships, build loyalty and boost sales.

The CRM systems collect data from customers through different channels such as the website of the company, phone, chat, email and social networks. They can also provide the customer service department with detailed information about users: their purchase history, their preferences and their concerns.

What is a CRM for (Infographic)

At the most basic level, CRM software consolidates customer information and documents into a single database. So users can access and manage it more easily.

Over time, many additional functions have been added to make them more useful. Some of these functions include the recording of customer interactions through email, telephone, social networks or other channels; automation of workflows, such as tasks, calendars and alerts; and give administrators the ability to track performance and productivity based on information recorded in the system.

In the following Infographic, we tell you in a simple way our definition of CRM and what it is for

CRM tools

Once we are clear about what a CRM is, we will see the tools.

Marketing automation

CRM tools can perform repetitive tasks to improve the work of the marketing department. For example, as registrations occur in the system, promotional material about the company can be sent, usually via email or social media. The goal should always be to turn a potential customer into a portfolio customer.

Automation of the sales force

The tools keep track of customer interactions. They also automate certain business functions of the sales cycle that are necessary to track leads.

Contact Center Automation

Designed to reduce the tedious aspects of a telemarketing agent’s job. Includes prerecorded audio to help solve customer problems and provide information. Various enterprise software tools that integrate with the programs installed on the agent’s desktop can handle customer requests to reduce call time and simplify customer service processes.

Geolocation technology or location-based services

Some CRM systems include technology that can create geolocated marketing campaigns. They are sometimes integrated with popular location-based GPS applications. Geolocation technology can also be used as a contact management tool to track sales at a certain location.

Workflow automation

CRM systems help companies optimize processes by taking care of the simplest functions. This allows employees to focus on higher-level and creative tasks.

Lead management

Potential customers can be tracked through a CRM. Salespeople can track and analyze lead data on one screen.

Human resource management in a CRM

CRM systems help keep track of employee information. Examples: contact information, performance reviews, and the benefits you bring to the company. All this allows the human resources department to manage the company’s staff more effectively.

Analysis

Analyzing the data and creating effective marketing campaigns increases customer satisfaction rates.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence technologies have been incorporated into CRM platforms. They automate repetitive tasks, identify customer buying patterns to predict future behaviour, and much more.

Types of CRM

If we look at its functionalities and objectives, we can say that there are three types of CRM on the market. Before implementing one in your company, it is worth knowing what they offer and how they differ.

What are the three types of CRM? Operational, Analytical and Collaborative.

Operative

Streamlines business procedures through automation of sales, marketing and services. The main objective is to generate leads, convert them into contacts, record all the necessary details and provide service throughout the customer life cycle.

Analytical

Collaborate with managers, marketing, sales and support establishing the best way to serve clients. The main function of this type of CRM is data analysis. Analyze customer data from different sources to get a reliable picture of business health. It allows management to make better decisions, marketing to understand the effectiveness of campaigns, sales to increase profits, and support staff to improve service and build a solid relationship with the customer.

Collaborative

Share customer information with various areas of the company such as the sales, marketing, technical team and support. The CRM collects the work of the different business units to achieve one goal: use all the information to improve the quality of customer service, build customer loyalty, and attract new customers to increase sales.

CRM on-premises and in the Cloud

If we look at the installation method, we find that CRM systems are installed locally or in the cloud. Although until recently the installations were carried out mainly on company servers, in recent years the almost unanimous trend is to hire cloud services.

What is a local CRM?

This system leaves the control of the administration, security, maintenance of the database and information, in the hands of the company that uses the software. The company buys licenses for life instead of buying annual or monthly subscriptions from a cloud CRM provider. The business software resides on the company’s own servers and the user bears the cost of any updates. It also often requires a complex installation process to integrate with company data. Companies with very specific needs could benefit from local implementation.

What is a cloud-based CRM?

In a cloud-based CRM, also known as SaaS (software as a service), data is stored on an external and remote network that employees can access anytime, anywhere with an internet connection, sometimes with a third-party service provider who oversees installation and maintenance. The deployment capabilities of a cloud solution appeal to companies with limited technical knowledge or resources.

Businesses could consider a cloud solution as a more cost-effective option as there is no high upfront fee as is the case for local installation.

Data security is a critical concern for companies using cloud-based systems, as the company does not physically control the storage and maintenance of its data. If the supplier goes out of business or is acquired by another company, the data may be compromised or lost. Compatibility issues can also arise when data is initially migrated from a company’s internal system to the cloud.

Open Source and Private CRM

A proprietary CRM is one that presents any type of technological or legal restriction that prevents its modification or distribution without the prior authorization of its owner. The source code is owned by a company responsible for its exploitation for commercial purposes.

An Open Source CRM system makes the source code available to users, allowing them to make modifications at no cost to the company that uses the system. Open-source systems also allow adding and customizing data logging on social media channels.

Open source platforms such as OroCRM, SuiteCRM, and SugarCRM offer alternatives to payment platforms.

The adoption of any of these implementation methods depends on the needs, resources and business objectives of the company since each has different associated costs.

CRM examples

We tell you some examples of CRM in practice so that you better understand what a CRM is.

Contact Center

Traditionally, data entry into a CRM system has been the responsibility of the sales and marketing departments, as well as call centre agents. Sales and marketing teams find leads and update the system with customer information. For their part, customer service centres collect data and review customer history records through calls received by service and technical support interactions.

Social CRM

Another example is found in social networks. They create business opportunities through platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Social networks represent an open forum for customers to share experiences with a brand, whether by issuing complaints or promoting products.

To add value to customer interactions, companies use various Social CRM tools. They monitor conversations on social media, from brand-specific mentions to the keywords used. This is how they determine their target audience and the social platforms they use. Other business software tools are designed to analyze feedback in networks and address customer inquiries and issues.

Companies are interested in capturing customer sentiments, such as how likely they are to recommend products and the overall satisfaction they show, to develop marketing and service strategies. Companies try to cross the data obtained through Social CRM with others collected by the sales or marketing departments to obtain a single view of the customer.

Mobile CRM Systems

Applications created for smartphones and tablets have become a necessity for salespeople and marketing professionals. They allow them to access customer information and perform tasks when they are not physically in their offices. Mobile CRM applications take advantage of unique mobile device features, such as GPS and voice recognition capabilities, to give sales and marketing employees access to customer information from anywhere.

Business-to-business (B2B) practices

CRM systems in the B2B market help to generate greater visibility of potential customers and thus increase efficiency throughout the sales process.

CRM challenges

Any advance in CRM technology is not useful if it is only used as a database. The data obtained must be connected, distributed and organized so that users can easily access the information they need.

Companies will not have a complete picture of the customer if the data is not organized in a single interface. Challenges also arise when systems contain duplicate customer data or outdated information. These issues can lead to a reduction in the quality of the customer experience due to long wait times during phone calls, inadequate case management through technical support, and other issues.

The CRM systems work best when companies take time to “clean up ” customer data. This eliminates duplicate and incomplete records before integrating it with other types of software.

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Event post – December 18, 2020

December 19, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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The Women in Cloud Summit 2021 is going to bring together 150+ speakers, 12 categories, and 8 special events in 3 days. This virtual summit will offer timely insights about the invaluable need for technology at a time of economic uncertainty and operational norms.

From mentorship to executive roundtables, connecting with leading technology experts, technical support, business skills, youth entrepreneurship, and much more you will have access to actionable resources you can use now.

Founded on the idea to help small business entrepreneurs develop and grow with technological transformation in the state of Washington, Women In Cloud celebrates women in the tech world. The summit will bring individuals and organizations in partnership with policymakers from around the world to create economic access for women in the cloud economy.

Click the red button and register to attend the summit virtually from January 28-30, 2021.

Featured Events, Contests and Awards

WEBINAR: The Sh*t’s Hit the Fan – NOW WHAT? 99 Recession Proof Tips for Small Business
January 14, 2021, Online

The business world as we know it appears to have been turned upside down overnight by Covid-19. Perhaps there has never been another time when the economy has changed so radically so fast. How do you – as a small business owner – navigate this new world? In her new book, Rhonda Abrams, a recognized small business expert, shares specific do-it-now strategies for how your small business can survive – even thrive – in this Covid-19 world.

Women in Cloud Summit 2021
January 28, 2021, Online

The Women in Cloud Summit is a three-day, life-changing event for women tech entrepreneurs, corporate and community leaders, policymakers, and allies from around the globe. Women are key drivers of economic growth, and the Summit strives to change the industry narrative by creating economic access for women in the cloud economy. Summit attendees will hear from inspirational speakers, connect and communicate with industry leaders and experts, and network with other community members and entrepreneurs. Join us virtually from January 28-30, 2021.

WEBINAR: What Business Structure is Right for You?
April 28, 2021, Online

Picking a business structure is usually the first big legal decision for a new business owner and one of the most confusing. However confusing, it is an essential step to protecting your personal assets from any liabilities of the company. In this webinar, Nellie Akalp CEO of CorpNet.com, will share insight on business entities to help guide you to the best decision for your new venture.

WEBINAR: Best State to Incorporate
July 28, 2021, Online

Some say Delaware, others say Nevada while someone else may say your home state. What is the best state to register a business in? What if your business is expanding into new territory? At what point should you Foreign Qualify? Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet.com, will go in-depth to answer these questions and more in this webinar.

WEBINAR: Steps to Start Your Business
October 20, 2021, Online

Starting a business can be an exhilarating time, where everything seems full of potential and purpose. But navigating the logistics of launching a business can be daunting. In this webinar Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet.com, will outline the steps necessary to legally start a business and get up and running on the right foot.

More Events

neXco National Lunch and Learn Goal Setting Workshop
December 29, 2020, Online
DataScience Contest
January 1, 2021, Online
Decoding Future HR 2021
January 19, 2021, Online
Talent Acquisition Week | VIRTUAL
January 25, 2021, Online
Rail Cybersecurity Summit USA
February 9, 2021, Online
5th Advancing Project Controls Summit 2021
February 22, 2021, Online
Employee Wellness Summit
February 24, 2021, Online
Digital Marketing World Forum – North America Online 2021
March 24, 2021, Online
Power BI in 2021
April 1, 2021, Online
HR Benefits Conference, April 2021
April 7, 2021, Las Vegas, NV
TECHSPO New York 2021 Technology Expo (Internet ~ Mobile ~ AdTech ~ MarTech ~ SaaS)
April 15, 2021, Online
DigiMarCon Mid-Atlantic 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
April 26, 2021, Philadelphia, PA
Sitecore CMS in 2021
May 1, 2021, Online
DevOps Engineer in 2021
May 1, 2021, Online
DigiMarCon New England 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
May 6, 2021, Boston, MA
Marketing Analytics Summit North America – Virtual Edition 2021
May 10, 2021, Online
DigiMarCon Canada West 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
May 13, 2021, Vancouver, BC
DigiMarCon Canada East 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
May 17, 2021, Montreal, QC
DigiMarCon Canada 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
May 20, 2021, Toronto, ON
DigiMarCon Canada 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
May 20, 2021, Toronto, ON

More Contests

This weekly listing of small business events, contests and awards is provided as a community service by Small Business Trends.

You can see a full list of events, contest and award listings or post your own events by visiting the Small Business Events Calendar.

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Work Hard, Play Hard (CARTOON)

December 18, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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This article, “Work Hard, Play Hard (CARTOON)” was first published on Small Business Trends

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10 Holiday Sales & Marketing Tips for Small Businesses to Finish 2020 Strong

December 17, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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If you’re a small business owner or marketing team of one, you may be worried about the COVID-19 pandemic dooming your holiday season sales.

After all, how are you supposed to finish the year strong when many people are still unsure about leaving their homes and shopping in crowds?

The answer: You learn how to evolve your holiday sales and marketing strategies.

Despite another wave of surging cases, consumers are approaching the holidays business as usual. A staggering 82% of consumers say they’d pay more to safely shop local, and that’s just the beginning, so there are still plenty of ways to rack up online sales and in-store pickups.

Read this guide to find more 2020 shopping statistics, plus the 10 best strategies for boosting sales in this unprecedented holiday season.

10 Holiday Sales & Marketing Tips for Small Businesses to Implement Today

These 10 tips will help you boost sales so you can finish the year strong. They may even help you make up for sluggish quarters earlier in the year.

All you have to do is follow this gameplan:

1. Don’t Rule Out In-Store Purchases If You Have a Brick-and-Mortar

In-store purchases won’t entirely disappear this year, though they may look a little different. According to recent data:

85% of people still want to shop in-store [*]
86% of people desire COVID-safe pickup options [*]
59% will support stores that take COVID-safe precautions [*]

So if your small business operates a local store, these statistics offer some hope. You can still capture in-person sales as long as you update customers on your shopping experience to keep everyone safe.

There are a couple quick ways to do this:

Send out an email blast to your customers letting them know you’re open at a limited capacity. In the email, add a few ways for customers to contact your business. For example, you may not want customers replying via email, so have a toll-free number that reaches your virtual phone system. Customers can call that dedicated number with any questions about shopping safety, in-store capacity, product availability, and more.
Post social media updates that highlight your extra cleaning efforts and make it well-known that curbside pickup is available, and even encouraged.

2. Reward Customer Loyalty

With so many brands to choose from, it’s crucial that you go the extra mile to take care of your customers. That’s why many brands create customer loyalty programs.

Offering shoppers special promotion/discount codes, coupons, and free products with each purchase incentivizes them to choose your company over your competitors.

But you can’t just send out a holiday-themed promo code to your email list and call it a day. Your loyalty program must be easy for customers to rack up points, relevant to what they’re already purchasing, and rewarding [*].

One company that checks those boxes for customers (and more!) is toxic-free makeup brand Thrive Causemetics. Besides giving customers a free makeup bag with every purchase and points for every dollar spent, they’re also hosting a special promo event called the “12 Days of Gifting.”

With this, the company gives customers a new free product (or two) each day, similar to an advent calendar or multiple days of Hanukkah presents:

Customers can check in each day to see which new products are up for grabs. They feel appreciated and score a chance to try new products they may not have purchased otherwise.

So consider creating a customer loyalty program this season or expanding the benefits of your existing one. You’ll help increase sales, customer satisfaction, and retention simultaneously.

3. Weave User-Generated Content Throughout Your Shopping Experience

Adding reviews, customer testimonials, and other user-generated content (UGC) throughout your site and product pages will decrease the risk of making a purchase for online shoppers and those who can’t shop in-person. In fact, customers are 71% more comfortable to make an online purchase after reading some reviews.

This type of social proof will show that your company sells high-quality products people already love, which will make new customers more eager and comfortable to follow suit.

Here’s how popular women’s clothing brand LuLu’s does this well:

On their product pages (pictured above), LuLu’s prominently displays a five-star rating system underneath each item.

The company then takes the customer review process a step further by adding user-submitted photos. Shoppers can see what real customers look like wearing the product before they decide to purchase it:

As shoppers scroll down, they can read the reviews in greater detail, including helpful intel about how products fit based on each customer’s measurements and height.

Buyers don’t have to imagine how an item will fit their bodies when they can see photos of the products on real customers with similar measurements. This lessens their risk and gives them more confidence to add the item to their cart.

So consider weaving in user-generated content like this throughout your homepage, product pages, and anywhere else that may be relevant. Start with simple ratings and testimonials, then gradually work your way up to everything Lulu’s does here.

4. Host a Few Social Media Giveaways

Savvy marketers know that giveaways are a great way to drive impressions to your website and increase your potential customer base. So why not host one or two this holiday season?

You can give away your products on sites like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn, depending on where your customers hang out. Or you can host more than one giveaway to really drive brand awareness and engagement.

That’s exactly what baby bottle brand Nanobebe did.

The company partnered with other brands in two separate holiday giveaways to increase their exposure and customer base by tapping into different established audiences:

Though you don’t have to partner with other brands to reap these benefits, you do earn the added perk of casting a wider net.

However, hosting a giveaway on your own social pages can still help drive new customers to your website. It may also reward existing ones, depending on who wins.

No matter which giveaway route you take, be sure to include relevant hashtags so people can find your brand during their searching.

5. Add a Holiday Theme to Your Website

Since online shopping will be on the rise this year (thanks again, Covid!), it doesn’t hurt to spruce up your website with some festive holiday cheer.

A total revamp of your homepage can help people feel as if they’re shopping in a winter wonderland. It may also evoke the same warm-and-fuzzy vibes of shopping in-person, which may boost last-minute sales.

NY-based streaming workout brand P.volve went all out with its homepage and on-point holiday theme:

While P.volve wows online, you don’t have to get extravagant here if you lack the time, resources, or budget to do so. Adding some fun holiday-themed pops of color and simple, seasonal messaging is enough to evoke that merry spirit.

Affordable jewelry brand Blush & Bar knows this all too well. The company added a cute present next to their logo and a holiday banner to their homepage:

The brand even introduced some light-hearted features, such as a fun quiz to help customers find their perfect jewelry and a Holiday Bonus Game, to relax hectic shoppers into a buying mood.

Taking cues from both these brands will help you capture that holiday cheer and increase sales. Bonus: You can accomplish this task in one productive afternoon.

6. Create Holiday Bundles of Your Best Products

Packaging holiday bundles of your best-selling products is one of the best creative ideas brands can implement this season. And it works well for a few reasons:

First, these bundles help your business show off its best-selling items, which is especially useful for shoppers unfamiliar with your range of products.

Second, these premade bundles remove the guesswork for consumers shopping for hard-to-buy recipients. They make an attractive gift full of well-reviewed products that are sure to please.

You can also offer shoppers the chance to capture a stellar deal by buying a discounted bundle rather than each item individually. Then you can advertise the savings shoppers score with this deal, which may push them to snatch up the bundles before they’re gone.

Tea brand Pique created an Ode to Tea holiday bundle featuring eight types of tea crystals in a holiday-themed box. This bundle also pulls double-duty because the box converts into a tea chest giftees can use all year round:

Upscale Australian accessory brand Bellroy also offers holiday gift sets that save money and deliver their best-selling products all in one:

So consider packaging holiday bundles like these for your customers. You may even want to offer one or two for your social media giveaways (tip #4) to drum up excitement about them.

7. Stand for a Cause and Show This Proudly

Another smart tip, especially around the holidays, is to show that your brand cares about giving back to relevant causes and people in need.

According to recent research, 58% of young consumers are more likely to buy from brands that back a good cause — but only if they know about it!

So if your small business is charitable — and you should be — let your customers know on your website and social media channels. You can subtly prove your brand cares about others, not just profit.

Affordable direct-to-consumer stroller company Mockingbird made this clear on their #GivingTuesday post. They shared how they delivered over 100 strollers to families in need by partnering with Baby2Baby:

So think about how your small business can give back this season. Then don’t be shy about sharing your efforts. Make it clear to customers why you chose to help and how, and they’ll be more likely to support your company.

8. Reinforce Your E-Commerce Store

This year marked a seismic shift toward e-commerce due to limited in-store options. In fact, 58% of consumers expect to make most of their holiday purchases via e-commerce sites.

So is your digital storefront up for the challenge? Can it handle an influx of online payments and customer support requests? Does it give shoppers an easy, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience?

If you can’t objectively assess your e-commerce store, recruit your friends, family, and colleagues for honest feedback. Ask them how your current online experience could be improved and reward them for their time with a discount code.

Upgrading your digital storefront gives your brand a better chance at sales and creating happy customers for life. And if you follow all the tips in this guide, you’ll definitely need to prepare for higher website traffic and sales. So make this tip a priority along with the next one.

9. Boost Your Customer Service Systems

If you can, it’s wise to invest in your customer service experience so you can ensure that any hiccups are resolved promptly instead of snowballing and ruining the experience for shoppers.

This can include adding or updating your live chat features, chatbots on your website, email replies, and response times. You may also want to strongly consider a commercial phone system capable of handling the increased workload.

While it may seem like an added cost, this brief holiday season can mean the difference between hitting your annual revenue goals or falling short. You don’t want a simple customer service issue chasing away customers unknowingly.

Plus, customers may be extra stressed during this time, so providing additional support for them will only help your brand. Remember, a poor customer experience can be almost impossible to recover from, but perfect experiences breed lifelong buyers.

10. Send Personalized Cards to Customers

Most brands will not take the time to send customers thank-you notes, especially during the busy holiday season. That’s why it’s one of the most effective strategies for helping your business stand out.

Consider sending out personalized thank-you notes to your most loyal customers or your newest customers. Add a handwritten note on one side to show how much you appreciate them. Use the reverse side for an attractive image or artwork that they can later hang up.

This card creates a lasting memory and will remind customers why they chose your brand in the first place. If they display your card, you’ll keep your brand top of mind all year round. When it comes time for them to make another purchase, your small business will be first on their list.

Final Thoughts

This year has been hard on everyone, but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible for your business to finish on a high note.

Now, more than ever, consumers want to support small businesses by shopping online and in-store, when possible. But it’s up to you to make that experience worthwhile for them.

Fortunately, the 10 tips in this guide will help you do that and more.

Even if you’re only able to implement a handful of the strategies discussed today, your small business will be in a much better position to capture holiday sales. And you may be able to earn loyal customers for life simply by taking care of them during this difficult time.

Follow these strategies, and you’ll find that your hard work pays off in dividends.

Know another small business that may benefit from these tips? Give the gift of higher year-end sales by sharing this guide with them!

Image: Depositphotos

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Is the gig up?

December 17, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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From 2011 to 2017, Boston College sociology professor Juliet Schor and her research team studied the emergence and development of the sharing economy. In After the Gig, she reports on the ways that it has — and has not — lived up to its initial promise to gig workers, especially those who rely on it.

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Best Heavy Duty Vacuum Cleaners for Business

December 14, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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If you buy something through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.

If you want to keep all the working areas in your place of business clean, you need a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner. Residential or home vacuum cleaners are OK, but when you are using the vacuum several times a day, every day, you want a workhorse. Not only that, but you want it to last for years.

Heavy-duty commercial vacuums are designed to run for hours every day. They may not have the same aesthetic as the home vacuums, but they will not let you down when you need them most.

The seven heavy duty vacuum cleaners in this list will keep your business clean for years to come.

Best Heavy Duty Vacuum Cleaners for Business

Oreck Commercial, Professional Upright Vacuum Cleaner

Top Pick: As reliability goes with vacuums, Oreck is an industry standard. This commercial vacuum has automatic floor adjustments, helping hand handles, and a powerful highspeed motor. The balanced brush roll and 6,5000 RPM sucks debris in its 12” cleaning path.

This Oreck also has a 40’ cord, Endurolife belt, and a 630 cubic inch “top fill” bag all in a unit that weighs less nine pounds.

Oreck Commercial, Professional Upright Vacuum Cleaner, U2000RB1

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Hoover Commercial Bagged Upright Vacuum

Runner Up: Hoover is know for its home vacuums, but it also has a reliable and proven commercial line. This model has 5-position height adjustments, cleaning accessory pack, commercial quality urethane wheels, 35’ cord, and non-marking furniture guard.

The motor uses Hoover’s patented WindTunnel technology with three air tunnels to lift and remove dirt. And if you want HEPA filtration, it is an option for this vacuum.

Hoover Commercial WindTunnel 13″ Bagged Upright Vacuum C1703900

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Bissell BigGreen Commercial Industrial Vacuum Cleaner

Best Value: Another brand known for its home cleaners also makes commercial vacuums. This Bissell offers a 3-stage filtration system along with above floor cleaning, 30’ cord, and several tools. The extension wand is ideal for cleaning curtains, vents, and furniture. This 12-pound vacuum has a 13” cleaning path driven by a 10 Amp. Motor.

Bissell BigGreen Commercial PowerForce Bagged Lightweight, Upright, Industrial, Vacuum Cleaner

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Sanitaire Tradition Upright Commercial Bagged Vacuum

If you are looking for a no-frills workhorse of a vacuum cleaner, this Sanitaire delivers. A large-capacity 18 quart shake out back, 30’ commercial-grade power cord, tool-free maintenance, and long-lasting motor life makes it a reliable tool.

Strong metal and polycarbonate parts keep it running for tough, everyday use environments.

Sanitaire Tradition Upright Commercial Bagged Vacuum

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ProTeam ProForce Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner

ProTeam is known for its commercial vacuums, and this model has a dual-motor system to deliver power to the brush roller and suction motor. And when you are cleaning, the four Level Advanced Filtration with HEPA media filter improves Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

This vacuum has a wide cleaning path at 15” along with multi-surface cleaning capability for wood, tiles and carpet. You also get a 10 Amp. 924-watt dual motor and five attachment with an on-board tool storage.

ProTeam ProForce 1500XP Bagged Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA Media Filtration

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Sanitaire SC3683B Commercial Canister Vacuum

Canister vacuums provide a different cleaning option, especially for businesses with small space. This Sanitaire model only weighs 10 pounds and comes with four tools to bare floors and hard surfaces. The attachments let you clean low/deep-pile carpet, area rugs, and bare floors. The crevice tool and metal wands let you reach vents, curtains, and tall furniture.

Sanitaire SC3683B Commercial Canister Vacuum, Red

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Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Although stick vacuums have limitations when it comes to cleaning for a long time, the Dyson delivers. This vacuum has twice the suction of other cordless vacuums and it has a run-time of up to 60 minutes. This is enough for most cleaning jobs in a business.

The cleaner head automatically changes suction and power to clean different floor types. It also comes with Dyson’s solid engineering and filtration system that traps 99.99% of particles, dust, and allergens as small as 0.3 microns.

Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Blue

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Important Features to Look Out for in Your Next Heavy Duty Vacuum

Power Source: You have the option of battery or power from the wall. They both have their pros and cons, but at the end of the day what works for you is the best vacuum. The ones with electric cord will run for a long time, but they are limited by the length of their cord. The battery powered vacuums can go anywhere, however the do not last as long.
Capacity: Whether the vacuum has a bag or a receptacle, the size will determine how long you can vacuum. Capacity also describes the width of the vacuum’s cleaning path. The wider it is the more and faster you can clean your space.
Static Lift and Airflow: Vacuums with higher static lift can remove more dirt from the surface. And similarly, airflow which is measured as cubic feet per minute (CFM) moves the dirt it picks up through the hose and the tank. Airflow can range between 95 and 150 CFM.
Filtration System: A good filtration system, such HEPA, will catch the smallest dust particles.
Weight: Take the weight of the vacuum into consideration, especially if you have to pick it up. Overtime a heavy vacuum can be a problem.
Height: If the height of the front of the vacuum is high, it will prevent you from going underneath some furniture as well at tight spaces.
Accessories: Get the vacuum with the most accessories or attachments. These tools come in handy when you least expect it.

Vacuum Cleaner Types

There are different types of heavy-duty vacuum cleaners. And again they have their pros and cons, depending greatly on how you plan to use it and of course your place of business.

Upright – The upright vacuum is the classic form factor most businesses rely on. It is easy to maneuver, has a strong motor (depending on the model0, large capacity, and it is reliable.
Handheld/Canister – Unlike the upright vacuum, handheld or canister units have smaller capacity. However, where they lack in capacity they make up in portability. You can carry them almost anywhere depending on the size. They are available in light and heavy versions.
Backpack – Just like the handheld/canister types, the backpack is designed to be carried. Like the name implies, you carry it like a backpack while you clean the space.
Stick or Pole – These vacuum cleaners are available corded or cordless. They are ideal for cleaning up messes quickly without having to drag out a big vacuum. This however doesn’t mean they are not powerful.

Finding the best heavy-duty vacuum cleaner for business can be tiring. This is because of the sheer number of vacuums in the marketplace. This list will give you an idea of what is available so you can start making a more informed decision with your purchase.

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Images: Amazon

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87% of Consumers Now Read Online Reviews for Local Businesses

December 13, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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The 2020 Local Consumer Review Survey from BrightLocal reveals 87% of consumers are now reading online reviews for local businesses. Considering the state of affairs (global pandemic), It is not surprising. Because 34% say they always read online reviews for local businesses, while 26% do so regularly. And another 27% report they occasionally read reviews and 13% never do.

Small Business Data Privacy in Focus at Upcoming Webinar

December 12, 2020 by Asif Nazeer Leave a Comment

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Privacy in the digital world is an issue every small business with a digital presence has to deal with. And with consumers now more sophisticated about the issue, business owners have to be more careful about how they use customer data. This is what an upcoming discussion on data privacy will address.

FACEBOOK LIVE: The Value of Data Privacy, is going to answer the question, Is potential revenue worth sending your customer’s data to be tracked and used by 3rd parties?

As big tech companies look for this data, it is a question business owners have to answer. And is the money worth the trust of your customers in the long run?

Join host Brent Leary along with Anita Campbell, CEO of Small Business Trends, Zoho Chief Evangelist Raju Vegesna, and Jesús Hoyos, CX analyst and principal consultant of CX2 Advisory on December 15, 2020, at 2 p.m. EST on Facebook Live and LinkedInLive.

Click on the red button to set a remind and join the conversation.