Categories
Business

Can Artificial Intelligence Benefit Retail Security?

While modern threats associated with cybercrime and data breaches are often talked about with regards to most major industries, for retailers, physical security remains a top priority. According to recently published data, retail crime in the US accounts for almost $126 billion in lost economic activity, with almost 80% of retailers listing physical crime as a top concern.

Developing effective retail security solutions and related organizational policies is central to the safe operation of all retail businesses. Not only as a way to reliably prevent the loss of key assets, but also to create a safe and welcoming environment for customers to enjoy. However, as retail theft rates rise, teams must find new ways to effectively deter criminality.

Unfortunately, retail stores may always be vulnerable to physical threats like shoplifting due to the nature of the industry. With staff required to monitor large, over-crowded public spaces alongside carrying out other professional duties. But if some security tasks could be safely performed by smart technologies, retail security operations could be dramatically improved.

With this in mind, let’s look into the question: can artificial intelligence benefit retail security?

An overview of AI in retail security

The adoption rate of AI technologies among retailers on a global scale has been rising for several years, with the compound annual growth rate for such technologies sitting at almost 40%. While AI systems may not be exclusively used to benefit retail security tasks, the ability for teams to autonomously monitor assets and analyze data has likely driven adoption rates.

Across all the security practices in which AI can be beneficial, a few key operational factors remain present. In short, the ability for AI tools to perform real-time data analytics processes enables retailers to automate many key security tasks. At a time in which many retailers may be struggling financially, the adoption of AI systems can help to alleviate heavy workloads.

Supporting customer-facing employees and security teams by automating threat detection tasks allows retailers to both improve security processes and simplify the jobs of existing staff. Taking this into account, below are some examples of how AI benefits retail security.

Loss prevention

Research suggests as many as 90% of retailers have experienced instances of theft in their stores, with 83% believing retail theft to be a major issue. Whether these offenses are down to internal theft, shoplifting or a combination of the two, retailers must find a way to reliably deter criminality and to investigate reported incidents without overexerting human resources.

By integrating AI video analytics tools into existing store security systems, security staff can program automated responses to anomalous events. Installed cameras can continuously monitor high-risk areas in search of stimuli consistent with criminality, sending alerts to staff remotely for further investigation. Modern AI algorithms can also perform situational analysis of live footage, highlighting subtle indicators of criminality to improve incident responses.

Violent offenses

Tangentially related to shoplifting offenses, many retailers have recently shared concerns regarding a notable increase in instances of in-store violence. According to one report, 88% of retailers believe shoplifters to have become more aggressive in recent years, with almost 50% revealing they’ve observed much more violent behavior in retail environments of late.

In a similar sense to loss prevention solutions, AI analytics software can be deployed to help retailers better detect and address violent offenses. Object detection software can be used to autonomously identify contraband items, while video analytics tools can be programmed to detect suspicious behaviors like crowds forming in unusual locations. These stimuli can be used as triggers for wider security tools like alarms and locks to help staff mitigate threats.

Perimeter security

The benefits of AI with regards to retail security can also stretch into perimeter security, with specially designed analytics tools able to aid staff in preventing vehicular crimes. AI-informed cameras can use License Plate Recognition (LPR) software to continuously monitor parking lots, with systems configured to warn security staff of suspicious cars around the premises.

In addition, these same solutions can be used to prevent and address muggings, attempted vehicle theft and other physical crimes that may occur around stores. Staff can be alerted to suspicious events, provided AI cameras are linked to a cloud-based management solution, with options to immediately secure perimeter access systems and contact local authorities.

Fraud detection

Aside from physical security threats, one of the biggest challenges faced by retail security teams is the identification and prevention of fraud. The number of fraudulent transactions detected by retailers has increased significantly over the last few years, with 85% believing cases of credit card fraud rose in 2023 and 70% seeing an increase in check payment fraud.

Once again, the analytical abilities of modern AI systems can be used to detect and prevent suspected instances of fraud before such transactions can impact retailers. Dynamic AI tools can detect fraud by analyzing payment data in search of patterns consistent with fraudulent activity. If an anomaly is detected, systems can immediately alert stakeholders, reject false payment methods and contact authorities or financial institutions to enact further responses.

Cyber security

Finally, while the number of cyber threats targeting most industries has risen in recent years, retailers appear to be among the most commonly impacted organizations. According to data published in 2022, 77% of retailers were hit by ransomware attacks during the previous year, an 11% increase when compared to cross-sector averages observed over the same period.

AI threat detection solutions are well-positioned to help retailers prevent these threats. With tools like endpoint detection and response programs able to continuously monitor devices and digital systems, automatically addressing cyber threats as and when they occur. Using AI in this way has been shown to help teams cut data breach costs by almost $1.8 billion.

Summary

With research suggesting retailers may be facing elevated risks with regards to both physical and cyber crimes, modern organizations must find new ways to improve security responses. While investing in more security personnel may seem like the most obvious solution to these issues, an alternative may be to better support existing teams using smart security solutions.

The ability for modern AI tools to continuously monitor high-risk locations both effectively and efficiently can help retailers to improve threat detection processes, supporting existing teams and reducing the impact of common threats. By developing smart security systems designed to suit unique commercial environments, artificial intelligence can benefit retail security.

Categories
Marketing & Advertising

Out Of Home Advertising (OOH) – All You Need To Know In 2023

 

It’s certainly an exciting time to be involved in the out of home advertising space. The demand for OOH campaigns has remained constant over previous years. Still, as we move into a new decade, the industry is understandably excited about what the future hold for real-world advertising.

A combination of tech advances with the traditional benefits of real-world ads has made the world of OOH unavoidable for many marketers and advertisers. We take a detailed look at the industry, where it’s been and what it might look like in the coming months and years.

 

What is out of home advertising?

Out of home advertising (OOH) is a form of advertising that can be found outside of a consumer’s home. Traditionally this includes everything from billboards to bus shelters, benches, and everything in-between. If you see an ad outside of your home (and it’s not on your mobile!), then you are most likely looking at some kind of OOH ad.

We all spend time outdoors, and with the growth of digital advertising, it can sometimes be hard to get your message heard. OOH solves this and is now combining with digital advancements to make it a powerful tool for advertisers and marketers.

 

Types of OOH advertising examples

Billboards

Busses

Posters

Tube system, metro, and other travel locations

Airport

Taxis

Street furniture

 

Benefits of out of home advertising

Out of home advertising can be a brilliant alternative to the world of online digital advertising. It can have limitations; for example, the rise of adblockers has meant that digital ads viewability isn’t always perfect. Combine this with the sheer amount of information that consumers are faced with online, and it’s easy to understand why digital advertising isn’t always the best solution.

With out of home advertising, this isn’t a problem. OOH ads are difficult to avoid, and they can have a significant impact on consumers due to their size and contrast to the real-world environment.

Alongside this, OOH has a positive effect as a complement to digital advertising. One study found that consumers are 48% more likely to interact with a digital ad after being exposed to an OOH ad first.

 

What you can do with out of home

Create impactful advertising campaigns

The reason that advertisers love OOH advertising is due to the potential impact that it can have on consumers. They take notice of these large OOH ads.

OOH campaigns can’t be ignored, compared to TV, radio, or mobile, which can often be turned off, or the consumer can move to another channel.

Shania Brenson, the founder of 15M Finance, states that “OOH is booming now, so its importance for the company’s future success is undeniable in today’s competitive market. Investing in an impactful OOH campaign can be a smart financial decision for businesses that are looking for practical ways to increase their visibility and drive business growth.”

This means that advertisers can launch highly visual, impactful campaigns that attract the attention of consumers and allow brands to get their message to cut through.

 

Be creative

Out of home is a great place for creativity to thrive in the world of advertising. Large scale, impactful ad space is a fantastic place for creativity to thrive. Couple this with the need to provide a clear and lasting message, it’s perfect for testing some of your brand’s most creative ideas.

Combine this with the rise of data and new interactivity that is growing in the OOH space, and it’s easy to see why creativity is a key component of OOH campaigns.

 

Use location intelligently

Out of home advertising is extremely location-driven. Being in the real world, advertisers must consider where to place their ads to have the most significant impact.

With the rise of DOOH and other adtech stacks, advertisers can now do much more with location than previously available.

For example, it’s possible to understand, in real-time, the demographics of consumers that are nearby to OOH ad inventory. Based on this, advertisers can deliver dynamic ads that best suit the consumers at any given moment.

In the same way that digital marketing services have evolved to provide detailed insights and analytics into ad engagement and conversion, OOH advertising has now caught up. Campaign impressions can be measured, and attribution is now possible — all making OOH ads a powerful toolkit for any marketing department.

 

Purchasing in real-time

In previous years the purchase of OOH ad inventory was a laborious and time-consuming process. Today, digitization and innovation have meant that the time between purchase and viewability has been decreased to minutes.

This means that campaigns can be more adaptive and more likely to engage with consumer’s current surroundings and situations. For example, changing creatives based on the weather.

These advances have meant that the category is growing quickly amongst marketers and advertisers, with much of this growth being attributed to the digitization of the OOH space.

 

Trends in out of home advertising

The DOOH element of the industry is growing quickly. The industry is expecting to grow rapidly as the revolution that has swept across other areas of advertising and marketing to new heights reaches the OOH industry.

But what is everyone talking about in the industry? What are the trends that will dominate the following decade and beyond? We take a look at what we think will be the key trends as the industry grows and becomes more of a digital proposition.

 

DOOH

While the majority of OOH inventory is physical, more digital screens are now a crucial part of OOH campaigns.

Digital screens are providing better optimization, and this means that advertisers can create more personalized messaging. ON top of this, it’s possible to use different kinds of triggers to trigger a more dynamic form of OOH advertising.

This innovation is no longer in its infancy, and advertisers have shown precisely how effective digital OOH can be. As well as this, they have demonstrated the scalability of DOOH.

Better and more accurate data is assisting in these innovations. Advertisers can now offer dynamic media based on the demographic and behavior of mobile devices in real-time.

Real-time advertising is critical, but in reality, it is part of a growing trend in which the industry is becoming a more reactive solution. The large amount of data that marketers now have at their disposal is fueling this. This versatility is driving OOH personalization and leading to fantastic results for advertisers that are using DOOH to achieve their goals.

 

Purchasing digital OOH media programmatically

A considerable advancement in the space is the Programmatic buying of OOH media.

This was previously a process between the advertiser, digital marketing agency, and the owner of the OOH.

The buying of OOH inventory has not just become automated and available to buy instantly. Still, it is now available in many of the same platforms and locations that marketers can purchase their mobile or display ads. Because of this, advertisers can now build campaigns seamlessly across several channels and mediums, including OOH.

This real-time purchasing also facilitates the use of first and third-party data sets. Encompassing this into campaigns can have the same effect that it has had in the world of digital marketing, namely, maximizing personalization and boosting ROI.

 

Attribution and measurement

One of the areas where the OOH industry struggled in comparison to digital media is in the area of measurement. Marketers can see detailed insights into the effect that their digital campaigns are having on awareness and conversions, all quantifiable and easily visualized. But now data has enabled this for the OOH industry.

As a result, brands can now see the number of impressions an OOH ad has generated. Analytics and insights have moved on from using surveys to gauge these metrics.

But this innovation with data doesn’t end with impressions. Smart data can help to close the out of home attribution loop. Movement data around store visits can bring digital attribution to the offline world and OOH ads.

 

Tips for OOH campaigns

As with any kind of marketing campaign, careful planning is crucial to make sure you get the most value from OOH advertising.

We live in a world where the smartphone can dominate attention. So breaking into that is a crucial goal of OOH campaigns. This is, as we have mentioned, becoming easier with the rise of DOOH and other interactive technologies.

Here are some essential tips to make sure that your OOH campaigns are a success, and you get the best return from your OOH budget.

 

Data is a key tool

One of the most significant transformations to hit the world of advertising and marketing has been the availability of data. This has led to better personalization, improved targeting, and more accurate measurement.

Make sure that where available, you are making use of data in your OOH campaigns. Understand what the options are to use your own datasets to improve your campaigns if buying OOH media programmatically look at how data can improve the results of your campaign.

For marketers, OOH is now an exciting place to be. Data is fuelling innovation and creating powerful DOOH campaigns.

We now have access to a large data ecosystem that wasn’t available ten years ago. These data sets have enabled advertisers to do more with their activities and campaigns.

However, the advertising is only as good as the data the fuels it. Marketers must be aware of the data they are using in DOOH. Third-party data needs to be highly vetted, and direct partnerships with 2nd party providers are a much better solution.

 

Try a shareable campaign

The best out of home advertising campaigns are designed to create a buzz. These campaigns work better when people are talking about and sharing them.

A great example is a recent campaign around the BBC TV series Dracula – the dynamic and provocative creative was widely shared on social media and became a viral sensation. All because it was the perfect blend of creativity and sharability. I’ve seen other good ones that are localised, for example one for VA Loans in Texas.

 

Sometimes busier locations are better than more locations

It can be tempting to buy more sites or locations that are cheaper. But with OOH advertising, it can be much better to take a different approach.

To create the most impact, it can be better to choose a high traffic site that will reach as many people as multiple locations.

 

Less is more with OOH

With out of home, it’s important to make sure your message is simple. Less is more when it comes to OOH because most consumers will only look at your ad for a short period.

With a few seconds of attention, it’s important to keep the number of words to a minimum and to use visuals that are likely to grab attention. The aim is more to intrigue than to inform.

 

Next steps

Advertisers and marketers

See what you can do with OOH, get started with a campaign, or get the data you need to create a campaign that will smash your goals.

Read more 👉

 

OOH companies, agencies and inventory providers

Want to offer a smarter solution for brands and advertisers? Get in touch for compelling attribution, measurement, and other data tools that will transform your OOH offering.

Learn more 👉

 

What is out of home advertising?

Out of home advertising (OOH) is a form of advertising that can be found outside of a consumer's home. Traditionally this includes everything from billboards to bus shelters, benches, and everything in-between. If you see an ad outside of your home (and it's not on your mobile!), then you are most likely looking at some kind of OOH ad.

What are the main types of out of home advertising?

The main types of OOH ads are billboards, Street furniture, POS displays, bus shelters, kiosks, and telephone boxes. As well as this all advertising in transport locations.

Why is out of home advertising important?

OOH advertising is important because it gives brands a chance to communicate with a large number of consumers with powerful messages.

Categories
Business

How to Find a Job in the U.S. while working Remotely

A job search can be stressful, particularly for active job seekers, employees, and even more so for immigrants navigating a career in a new country like the United States.

 

Securing employment as a new immigrant poses unique challenges, given the potential requirements for specific documentation, visas, and proper authorization by many companies. In such situations, immigrants seeking job opportunities often turn to external resources and platforms for assistance.

 

One valuable resource in this regard is the online community hub, BAZAR.club. Bazar immigrant guide is a job posting site, this platform serves as a networking tool, connecting immigrants with job postings across various skill sets, including but not limited to truck driving, beauty, business, accounting, babysitting, and office work.

Importance of Job for Employees

 

The importance of a job for immigrants in the U.S. can be highlighted in several key aspects:

Financial Stability: 

One of the primary reasons immigrants seek employment is to achieve financial stability. Jobs provide a source of income, allowing individuals and families to meet their basic needs, pay bills, and contribute to the overall well-being of the household.

 

Integration into Society: 

Employment is a crucial element in the process of social integration. Through work, immigrants have the opportunity to engage with the local community, build relationships with colleagues, and become an integral part of the social fabric. This integration contributes to a sense of belonging and helps immigrants establish roots in their adopted country.

 

Professional Growth: 

Jobs offer immigrants the chance to utilize their skills, education, and experiences, fostering professional growth. Career advancement not only enhances an individual’s self-esteem but also contributes to their long-term success and the overall prosperity of the community.

 

Contributions to the Economy: 

Immigrants play a vital role in the U.S. economy, and their employment significantly contributes to economic growth. Through their work, immigrants contribute taxes, stimulate consumer spending, and often bring diverse perspectives that can drive innovation and competitiveness in various industries.

 

Cultural Exchange and Diversity: 

The workplace serves as a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences. Immigrants bring unique perspectives and skills that contribute to the diversity and richness of the American workforce. This cultural exchange fosters innovation and creates a dynamic and inclusive working environment.

 

Fulfillment of Aspirations: 

Many immigrants come to the U.S. with aspirations for a better life, education, and career opportunities. Securing a job aligns with these aspirations, enabling immigrants to pursue their goals and dreams, whether it’s homeownership, higher education, or entrepreneurial endeavors.

 

Contribution to Community: 

Immigrants often actively participate in community development and philanthropic activities. Gainful employment allows them to contribute not only to their own well-being but also to the welfare of the broader community through volunteering, charitable giving, and other forms of civic engagement.

 

Before diving into the job application process, it’s essential to consider some trade-specific tips.

Job Application Must-Haves Checklist

  • Ensure your resume is up-to-date —have you listed all your relevant job experiences in an informative, engaging, and organized manner?

 

  • Check in on your references—particularly as an immigrant, showcasing expertise in your field involves presenting a trustworthy background, endorsed by individuals your prospective employer can contact.

 

  • Update your cover letter—this traditional component of the U.S. job application process serves as a letter to your future employer, explaining your background and emphasizing why you would be an excellent fit for the position.

 

  • Practice your interview skills extensively—anticipate potential questions in your field and rehearse your responses; consider practicing with friends and family.

 

  • Come prepared with questions—carefully review the employer’s job post and arrive with thoughtful, clarifying, or intriguing questions that demonstrate your seriousness and engagement with the position.

 

  • Grow your network—whether through small jobs or connections in your new country, establish relationships that extend beyond strictly business interactions. Demonstrate your value through skills and build meaningful connections. Word of mouth and references can significantly enhance your professional standing in the community.

 

  • Never hesitate to apply—even if you feel underqualified. You might emerge as the most qualified applicant, or your personality could be a better fit—an invaluable asset to the employer. Always apply and maintain confidence, even if you experience what is commonly known as “imposter syndrome” as an immigrant.

 

  • Capitalize on your strengths and experiences through examples—when presenting yourself in interviews, applications, and cover letters, highlight your strengths as an employee by providing and discussing specific examples. Share instances where you demonstrated leadership and contributed to the growth of past companies.

 

In summary, staying on top of your resume, references, cover letter, interview skills, and networking can significantly boost your job search success, while overcoming any feelings of imposter syndrome and emphasizing your strengths through examples will showcase your value as a candidate.

Connect with BAZAR.club

Now that you’ve prepared yourself for job applications and interviews, it’s time to actively search for employment. BAZAR.club stands out as a specialized job posting site designed to streamline the process of finding immigration jobs USA. It serves as a one-stop-shop featuring daily updates of job postings from a diverse array of employers.

 

These job posts cater specifically to immigrants in the US, spanning various industries. Each posting provides comprehensive details such as job descriptions, pay rates, and working hours. Accessing this information is convenient through the website or a user-friendly mobile app.

 

Bazar immigrant guide not only simplifies the job search for new immigrants but also offers a range of additional community services to enhance their life in the US. The platform caters to immigrants nationwide, offering not just job postings but also truck driving opportunities, a catalog of businesses and services (including accounting, babysitting, medical care, etc.), essential news updates within America, and a blog covering various aspects of life in the USA. The blog includes tips for tenants, personal experiences, life hacks, and valuable job information.

 

For those in search of a new home, BAZAR.club provides an extensive list of available properties in the US, ranging from studio apartments to holiday homes and suburban housing.

 

In essence, BAZAR.club is a comprehensive resource for immigrants seeking employment, offering a wealth of information and services to support their transition and integration into life in the USA. If you are an immigrant looking for work, don’t hesitate to visit the job board BAZAR.club today to embark on an exciting new chapter in your career and a fulfilling adventure in your life in the USA!

Conclusion

Navigating the job market in the United States as an immigrant requires a strategic and proactive approach. The journey to finding employment is multifaceted and involves understanding the cultural nuances, networking effectively, and leveraging available resources. As an immigrant, it is crucial to capitalize on one’s skills and qualifications, continuously improve language proficiency, and seek opportunities for professional development.

 

Categories
Business

Ways to Raise Money Online for Your Startup

Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey is a thrilling venture. However, the challenge often lies in obtaining the necessary funding to bring your innovative ideas into reality. In today’s digital era, startups are fortunate to have a plethora of online avenues to raise capital.

One notable platform is My Canada Payday, which allows startups to secure financial support without stringent requirements for their growth and success. In this article, we’ll explore three strategies to raise money online for your startup:

1. Crowdfunding Campaigns

This is undeniably the most effective way to raise capital for your startup. Startups can showcase their ideas to potential backers for funding via platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe. This enables startups to secure funding in exchange for various rewards or early access.

Running a successful crowdfunding campaign requires careful planning and a compelling pitch. Start by clearly outlining your project’s goals, the problem it solves, and how backers can benefit. High-quality visuals, engaging videos, and a well-crafted narrative can significantly boost your campaign’s appeal. Additionally, offering attractive rewards at different funding levels can incentivize backers to contribute more.

Building a community around your campaign is crucial for its success. Leverage social media, email newsletters, and other online channels to create awareness and keep potential backers engaged. Regular updates and transparent communication help establish trust and credibility, encouraging backers to support your startup.

2. Online Fundraising Events and Competitions

Participating in online fundraising events and competitions is another effective way to raise money for your startup. Numerous organizations and accelerators host competitions that offer cash prizes, mentorship, and exposure to investors. Platforms like AngelList and F6S list various startup competitions and funding opportunities that entrepreneurs can explore.

To maximize your chances of success in these events, thoroughly research and choose competitions that align with your startup’s industry and goals. Craft a compelling pitch that clearly articulates your value proposition, market potential, and unique selling points. Emphasize how the prize money or support will accelerate your startup’s growth.

Networking plays a crucial role in these events, as connections made during competitions can lead to additional funding opportunities, partnerships, and valuable mentorship. Actively engage with organizers, judges, and fellow participants to expand your network and increase visibility.

3. Peer-to-Peer Lending

Startups can also borrow capital directly from lenders via peer-to-peer lending platforms. Websites like Prosper and LendingClub facilitate these lending transactions, allowing startups to access capital quickly and with less stringent requirements than traditional loans.

To succeed in P2P lending, create a compelling loan proposal that outlines your business plan, financial projections, and the purpose of the loan. Be transparent about the risks and challenges your startup may face, as this builds trust with potential lenders. P2P lending is a two-way street, and maintaining open communication with lenders is key to building lasting relationships.

Endnote

The online landscape has revolutionized the way startups raise money, providing a diverse range of options beyond traditional funding avenues. Whether through crowdfunding, online competitions, or P2P lending, entrepreneurs now have the tools to connect with a global audience of backers, investors, and supporters. By leveraging these online resources strategically and effectively, startups can secure the funding they need to turn their vision into a reality.

Categories
Business

How a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration Can Propel Your Career

Many envision business degree holders as the well-dressed elite, navigating the high-stakes world of corporate leadership with grace and finesse. They’re seen as architects of industries, ceaselessly plotting the next seismic market shift. These perceptions, while not entirely inaccurate, don’t encapsulate the full spectrum of roles held by these professionals. From spotlight-stealing executives to the unsung heroes operating behind the scenes, holders of business administration degrees are as diverse as they are dynamic.

If you’re someone with a knack for analytical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making, consider polishing these talents with a graduate certificate in business administration. You may soon find your place among the commanding ranks of influential corporations.

Even though taking a graduate certificate in business admin can be a significant investment, the returns on it can be substantial. Let’s take a look at how this type of program can propel your career forward.

The Real-World Value: Does Earning a Graduate Certificate Pay Off?

Jumping into a graduate certificate program can feel like a high-stakes gamble. You’re putting your time, energy, and hard-earned money on the line, all in the hopes that this investment pays off in your career. But let’s give it a reality check – does earning a graduate certificate truly make a difference?

While a graduate certificate may not lead directly to an advanced degree like a master’s, don’t be quick to discount its worth. What it lacks in traditional academic prestige, it makes up for in practical, on-the-job skills that can fast-track you to your dream role. And remember, a graduate certificate can also be a stepping-stone on your journey towards an advanced degree, bridging the gap between your current knowledge and the expertise required for higher-level studies.

Understanding the perks that accompany a graduate certificate will illuminate its genuine value. Here are some career-boosting benefits that you can expect from a graduate certificate:

Career Advancement: A Leap Forward with a Graduate Certificate

Imagine a career where you’re not just surviving, but thriving. A world where you’re not just participating, but leading. Sounds enticing? A Graduate Certificate in Business Administration could be your springboard to this exciting reality.

If you’ve been eyeing that corner office or contemplating a leap to a more challenging role within your field, this certificate could be your secret weapon. Let’s face it, the professional world can be tough. More often than not, there’s a chasm between where we are and where we want to be – a gap often filled with the nuances and complexities that an undergraduate program might not wholly capture.

A graduate certificate program steps in to bridge this gap, equipping you with the specific knowledge and skills often coveted for advanced positions. It’s like a professional tool kit, arming you with the expertise you need to tackle more complex challenges and seize thrilling opportunities.

Grow Your Network: Networking Opportunities in a Graduate Certificate Program

So, you’re already a people-person, but how about sprinkling a little strategic finesse into your social repertoire? A Graduate Certificate in Business Administration offers just that – a golden opportunity to grow your professional network. Sure, your undergraduate program might have thrown a few networking events your way, but here’s the real deal.

Enrolling in a graduate certificate program is like grabbing an all-access pass to an exclusive club, where industry experts and fellow enthusiasts gather. You’ll find yourself brushing shoulders with seasoned professionals who’ve specialised in the same field as your certificate program. Think of these individuals as your compass, guiding you through the maze of career progression, offering invaluable advice, and sharing insights on how to apply your newly acquired skills in the real world.

The beauty of networking within such a focused cohort is the wealth of specific career intel you can tap into. You may even stumble upon exciting job prospects that align perfectly with your enhanced skill set. Remember, networking is not just about collecting business cards; it’s about building relationships that enrich your professional journey.

Paving the Way for an Advanced Degree: The Graduate Certificate Stepping Stone

Let’s consider the graduate certificate as a ticket to the big-league game of advanced degrees. True, it’s not a full-fledged degree program itself, but think of it as a great half-time show that also serves as a vital run-up to the main event. Quite often, these certificate programs are the hidden gems within graduate degree packages, giving you a taste of the excitement before you dive into the deep end.

Imagine this: you’re embarking on a journey to scale the Everest of master’s degrees or other advanced qualifications. Now, wouldn’t it be handy to have a practice climb, a chance to flex those intellectual muscles before the real ascent begins? That’s exactly what a graduate certificate program offers.

It’s a head start, a mini masterclass on the more sophisticated skills and in-depth knowledge that your field demands. And the best part? This experience doesn’t just prepare you for the road ahead—it actually builds part of the road. So, when it’s time to step up to that advanced degree, you’ll be hitting the ground running, primed and ready for the challenge.

Categories
Business

The Effect of E-Commerce on the Trucking Industry

The immense growth of the e-commerce industry has impacted related sectors. And one of them is trucking. Shopping online has become the preferred method for consumers thanks to its convenience. The growth of the industry has imposed various challenges for trucking companies. Businesses will require precise truckload shipping quotes to calculate their costs. In addition, we explain how e-commerce impacted the trucking industry.

The immense growth of e-commerce

Many years ago, consumers were obligated to go to physical stores to buy the necessary goods. The process takes time and effort, so some might find it inconvenient. The mainstream use of the internet has implemented changes in the shopping process. Consumers can buy with a few clicks or taps on their mobile devices. Buying and selling have become so easy. 

With the popularity of e-commerce, physical stores were forced to close or join the new trend. Many big-name retailers offer online shopping experiences, despite the traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Online shopping has increased the need for trucking services. Customers want to have their goods shipped promptly while paying less money. 

The impact on the trucking industry

The rise of e-commerce as a preferred buying method has brought many benefits to the trucking industry. But at the same time, it imposed various challenges. The popularity of e-commerce has impacted how the products are shipped, packed, and delivered to the consumer.

Prompt delivery is highly requested in the e-commerce world. Therefore companies are looking for innovative solutions to be more competent in the market. For example, Amazon is constructing warehouses in urban areas. 

The promise of fast shipment has impacted the trucking industry. Unfortunately, this is referred to as a negative aspect. For example, the high demand for shipping caused driver shortages and problems with employee retention in the industry. Driver’s health and well-being were also compromised due to the high volume of orders. 

Fast shipping

Customers want their goods delivered promptly and without high charges, which puts pressure on the trucking industry. Fulfillment centers help speed up the delivery process, while intraregional and last-mile truck trips get higher demand. 

For truck drivers, e-commerce has changed their work process. Delivering products to the final consumer has them working in their local region. Therefore the truckers can work locally and return home for the night without being away from home for weeks. The inter-regional driving jobs have been replaced with a higher volume of local trucking jobs. 

Driver shortage

The trucking industry faces various challenges due to the increase in e-commerce. The driver shortage and retention are certainly on top of the list. By 2040, over 51,000 truck drivers will be needed to handle the volume. However, the increase in orders can be beneficial for solving this problem. We already explained that local delivery allows drivers to return home every day instead of the few-week truck tips. A stable working schedule is ideal for people with families that want to be home every day. Therefore, this will increase the popularity of the truck driving job and decrease the turnover rates. However, it is expected that local driving jobs to worsen the problem with the shortage of long-haul drivers due to its benefits.

Final take

The trucking industry needs to answer the dynamic changes in the e-commerce world. The need for speedy and timely delivery is on the rise. But on the other hand, the trucking industry itself faces challenges such as driver retention and shortage. 

 

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Business

SaaS Marketing Hacks To Win As A Competitive Startup

Businesses require diverse software solutions to stay on top of tech trends, but not all organizations can afford custom development. Thankfully, SaaS providers come to their rescue, offering software on a subscription model. Not surprisingly, the demand in the SaaS domain is high, making it a lucrative one for aspiring entrepreneurs. Joining the bandwagon is a great idea, as you need not worry about falling short of demand. Additionally, the profit potential is high in the industry. But you require a viable marketing plan to set yourself apart in the tight landscape. Here are some valuable SaaS marketing hacks to win as a competitive startup.

Leverage the power of content

SaaS customers are often knowledgeable business leaders and decision-makers looking for solutions to enhance their business. They also want to address specific pain points such as employee productivity, customer relationships, and more. Experts at Outreach Monks emphasize the importance of providing valuable content to show how your solution can resolve customer pain points. The best way to do it is to create relevant content that answers the questions they ask through their buying journey.

Offer free trials

Another quick hack to get customers on your side is by offering free trials of your product. They will probably upgrade to a paid subscription if they find your product relevant to their needs. It is the best way to acquire new buyers and retain them for recurring revenue. The good thing about free SaaS trials is that they entail little to no cost because you need not bear the shipping costs. You only need to let the potential buyer use your product to make them stick.

Push ahead with reviews and referrals

B2B leaders often rely on word-of-mouth while buying a product or service for their business. You can push ahead by promoting positive reviews from your clients on your website and review sites. Encourage happy customers to share a good one on social media and review platforms. Also, showcase them on your website’s home page where visitors can see them. Incentivizing clients for referrals is also an excellent strategy to drive new ones to your website. A small offer or discount is enough to drive referrals, while great services may even get them free of cost.

Build trust with SEO ranking

Since SaaS is a B2B offering, the trust factor matters more than anything else. A top-ranking website is an ideal way to build credibility because the audience wants to buy from top sellers. You can win the SEO game by creating top-quality SaaS backlinks consistently. Also, remember that quality matters more than numbers, so prioritize factors like relevance and authority while linking to websites. Guest posting is an ideal strategy when it comes to link-building in this domain because it gives you the advantage of being endorsed by niche leaders.

SaaS marketing need not be a challenge for startups running on tight budgets. Follow these simple and low-cost tips to win the race, no matter how competitive your business landscape is. 

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Business

7 Tips for Succeeding in Your Own Business

Newbies who are only starting their own business often don’t know what to do. Such a situation can lead to undesirable consequences. However, that’s not how things have to be! Sometimes you can learn from others’ mistakes and experiences. When launching a new business, it’s essential to do all possible to ensure its success. Please make use of the best business advice we’ve compiled for you.

 

1. Take care of the technicalities: clean up your Mac

Almost any modern business involves digital technology. So for your business to run like clockwork, take care of your equipment. Start boosting your computer productivity using CleanMyMac X or other apps for problem-fixing and deleting system junk. Such a Mac clean app will help remove unnecessary hidden files, free up space on the hard disk and increase work speed. Everything to save a busy businessman’s time!

 

One more technicality to think about is cybersecurity. So after you clean up your Mac, it’s time to take care of data privacy. Data privacy rules vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, making it hard to follow them. Even if you are in compliance today, that might change overnight if new legislation is passed.

If you deal with the personal information of people who live in a particular state or country, you are subject to that jurisdiction’s data privacy regulations. How can a company tell whether they are dealing with the personal information of an EU resident? It’s pretty hard to tell. That’s why every company needs to implement and enforce stringent policies to protect customer information.

 

2. Research and plan

Do your homework and familiarize yourself with your industry, target market, and competitors before launching your firm. You shouldn’t put money into anything without determining whether there is a market for it and, if so, how many competitors there are. For instance, you can go through the tips for reducing energy usage in shopping malls if you really want to reduce expenses from your retail store.

 

Get to know your genuine degree of drive, your financial risk tolerance, and willingness to do everything for success. Everyone has the same aspiration to amass a fortune; that’s for sure. But how much are you ready to sacrifice? In a typical week, how many hours do you intend to work? How far are you prepared to go to challenge yourself? You must answer all the questions and prepare a plan.

3. Accept the need for alteration

The only constant in business is change. To succeed as a business owner, you need to readily accept and welcome new circumstances. If you feel stuck, consider shifting your viewpoint to examine the issue from a different angle. A new perspective is sometimes needed to see a problem’s solution. Avoid dwelling on the past while you’re up against obstacles; there’s no sense worrying about it now. Instead, give your full attention to the steps you must do right this second to improve your present predicament.

4. No need to start from scratch

Take a look at your competitors’ business models, apps, and other things you can copy rather than recreate. Instead of wasting time and energy attempting to set up a system, just buy one and install it. Whether it is Bitrix24, Macbook cleaner, or other software, make use of it. The smartest thing to do is invest in a few high-quality systems, so you don’t have to mess around with your own.

 

5. Find your way to be productive

Start-up founders must experiment with different productivity methods to discover what works best. It’s important to try other things. This way, you discover a schedule that works for you and make the most of each day. Learning to delegate duties when required is part of figuring out your choice. Suppose you don’t have the time or expertise to handle a particular aspect of your company. Hand it off to someone who can. You’ll be able to use your talents elsewhere with more ease.

6. Don’t judge yourself based on how others act

Examining oneself concerning others is a method to deflate one’s drive and self-assurance. Discouragement is common when people evaluate their success in relation to others. It’s human nature to feel inadequate when compared to people who have come farther along the path. The road to happiness is different for everyone. What helps one person might not affect another.

7. Maintain positive relationships

Building and keeping good relationships with others is crucial for any businessman. Maintaining things on good terms is essential since you never know when you may need support. Further, the quality of your private connections will influence your professional success. If you’re experiencing issues with a customer, it may affect the quality of the job you do for them. Sometimes it might lead to fewer sales. Who needs that? Right, nobody!

Conclusion

The path to success in business is different for everyone. But there are standard rules to follow. Start with research and plan, find your way to be productive, and don’t compare yourself to others. It is also helpful to take care of the technical component of the business and maintain good relations with customers and partners. We hope our simple tips will help you find your unique way to the top.

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Business

It’s All in a Name: 5 Examples Where Branding Has Been Important to a Local Market

Focusing on localisation is an important tactic when maximising revenue streams specific to a local market. Expansion and sustainability become more feasible when businesses are able to make use of geospatial data to improve their KPIs.

Using geospatial tech, businesses need to lean into measurement tools that provide insight into core segments like competitors, demographics, real-time neighbourhood data, and brand-based analytics per region. Finding the best methodology to use branding relative to its local market can be the difference between getting lost in the rush and standing out in a saturated market.

There are numerous case studies that reveal how important proper execution of branding is in a localised setting.

Improving Profitability – Cadbury’s Advent Calendars

There are many metrics used to measure the success of a business, but profit is the most essential one for sustaining the model. After all, you cannot continue to run a business if you’re not making any money. When you are able to find out what your target market wants and looks forward to, you can use this in your own branding and create a demand for it.

Cadbury has been at the top spot in the UK for years. One of the ways they capitalise on this is through their yearly advent calendars. They combine their best chocolate products with little goods that they know will be enjoyed by their target market due to localised research. In turn, the local market is always eager to get the perfect calendar when the Christmas period comes around every year.

Shaping Brand Perception – Bloom & Wild’s “Not for sale” Campaign

How you present yourself affects brand perception, which is crucial when establishing your target market and creating a positive image that results in sales. Various factors immediately impact how people view your business – your name, logo, and your ads.

Let’s take a look at Bloom & Wild, which immediately lets the audience know that they are a flower delivery company. Their “Not for sale” campaign, which spread ads that said they wouldn’t be selling roses because there is more to love than that particular flower, was a response to their research that British individuals find red roses one of their least preferred Valentine’s presents.

When honing in on what your audience is looking for, being creative is an absolute must. Use tools at your disposal to execute this correctly, like a business name generator that establishes a localised domain and provides you with geospatial insights to target your local market.

Increasing Visibility – Nike’s “Nothing Beats a Londoner” Campaign

Good branding also helps you resonate with a local audience. This makes you recognisable and expands your reach by simply putting you at the forefront of your marketing campaigns. When aiming to grow brand awareness, consumers differentiate you from others in your market and it helps foster loyalty.

Nike, despite being a well-established brand, needed to create more visibility in the London market. This was achieved by their “Nothing Beats a Londoner” campaign, which hinged on the local sentiment and environment that Londoners are familiar with. Google searches for “Nike” in London saw a 93% increase. This is a testament to how you can truly get people invested in getting to know your business if your branding is relatable and distinctive.

Building Trust – H&M’s Amsterdam Concept Store

If people don’t trust your brand, they will simply go to your competitor. This is why building trust is essential if you want to create loyalty.

One of the biggest factors that consumers think about now is brand values. H&M exemplified this in their branding efforts in Amsterdam, going as far as establishing a concept store that hinged specifically on the desire of Dutch consumers for sustainable and local services. Here, they offered a “repair and remake” department as well as smart recycling bins that customers can make use of.

Responsive branding based on the habits and buying preferences of local markets can help increase trust in your business.

Beating Competitors – Jollibee’s “Kwentong Jollibee” Campaign

Local markets are inevitably divided by market shares based on your competition. Through branding campaigns, you can let the audience feel more connected to your brand. If it feels more locally relevant, they are more likely to trust and invest in your brand.

One example of this is Jollibee’s Kwentong Jollibee campaign in the Philippines, which used local stories to capture audience affection and incorporate their products. This campaign has amassed more than 44.6 million views and translated to huge conversions, firmly placing Jollibee’s market shares above hard-hitting competitors like McDonald’s and KFC.

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News

Talon boosts Ada’s capabilities through Tamoco partnership

Talon continues to invest in proprietary data management platform, Ada, boosting the platform’s capabilities through a partnership with Tamoco, a sensor-driven location data network. 

The partnership follows Ada’s continued success in helping advertisers to accurately target OOH campaigns on actual observed behaviours, delivering clear return on investment. Managing and activating billions of audience and location data points, Ada generates intelligence about people’s real and recent behaviours, including how they travel, the OOH inventory they engage with and the actions they take afterwards.

Tamoco’s first-party dataset will be available within Ada to support advertisers to accurately measure exposure around OOH inventory. The growth of the Ada platform demonstrates what can be achieved in the OOH space with more precise data and powerful data management tools.

Building on the platform’s existing capabilities, Tamoco are able to provide the same privacy compliant, high quality raw location data, as other trusted providers. The partnership will help to expand Ada’s breadth and depth of location data across the UK, providing advertisers with a deeper understanding of how people live, work and travel.

Barry Cupples, Group CEO at Talon, commented, “Our partnership with Tamoco reflects our continued investment in Ada. The demand for accurate, in depth understanding of audiences is growing and using Ada we are able to actively demonstrate not only how audiences behave but how best to target them efficiently, providing a clear impact on advertisers bottom line.”

Jonathan Conway, Chief Strategy Officer at Talon, added, “This partnership is strategically important for Ada. By working with large amounts of high quality, privacy compliant data, we are able to simplify the way advertisers access critical campaign planning and performance information. It enables us to continuously improve the platform and leverage deeper insights for more OOH campaigns.”

Daniel Angel, CEO at Tamoco continued, “Working with Talon allows advertisers to access detailed location data to attribute and validate their campaigns. The OOH space is evolving quickly and it’s important that data management platforms, such as Ada, continue to support datasets that focus on privacy compliance and accuracy so that advertisers can get a clearer picture of how their OOH advertising works.”