Business.com |
- UPS Dashboard Offers Two-Hour Tracking ETAs for SMB E-Commerce
- U.S. Small Businesses Gain Access to Alibaba's Global Platform
- 5 Money-Saving Ideas for Your Newly-Funded Business
- Mail Solutions to Save You Time and Money
- Choosing a Conference Call Service: A Buyer's Guide
- The 7 Best Ways to Market Your Business Online
- 4 Things to Know Before Becoming A Freelance Writer
- How to Quit a Job (The Right Way)
- How Important Are Job References?
- How to Accept Mobile Credit Card Payments from Anywhere
| UPS Dashboard Offers Two-Hour Tracking ETAs for SMB E-Commerce Posted: 23 Jul 2019 02:05 PM PDT  A new free platform from UPS, My Choice for Business, is a small business dashboard where business owners can set up delivery alerts, track incoming and outgoing packages, and estimate delivery times within two-hour windows. This technology means e-commerce operations and small businesses will have advanced visibility into the shipping process, leading to better customer service, informed staffing and reduced on-hand inventory. Small businesses "can now sign up for this free inbound and outbound visibility solution that allows them to track and manage their shipments, and provide their own clients with a better customer experience," said Kevin Warren, chief marketing officer at UPS. By providing SMBs with visibility for both incoming and outgoing shipments, business owners can prioritize in-house operations and work directly with customers to ensure deliveries are received. In a competitive e-commerce landscape, the opportunity for improved customer service could be a differentiator for some small businesses. The web-based dashboard is also mobile-friendly, and it includes day-before and day-of delivery notifications, depending on an individual business owner's preferences. Access to this platform can be shared among several members, making it an intuitive and versatile tool for small businesses. UPS said features expected before the end of the year include delivery change options, new delivery alerts and ETAs accurate to within 1 hour and 15 minutes. For now, this service is for domestic shipping only, with plans to go international in 2020. The My Choice for Business platform is an extension of the My Choice for Home platform, which the company developed in 2011 and now boasts 60 million members globally. These platforms – the SMB platform being the first of its kind – prioritize transparency in shipping and logistics. "Small business owners can face many challenges related to growth," Warren said. "The UPS My Choice [is] … designed specifically to help SMB customers overcome those challenges by making inbound and outbound monitoring of shipments as simple as possible." With the rise in e-commerce and the emergence of Amazon as an online retailing giant, small businesses need to be wary of choosing the right postage services now more than ever. While UPS's new dashboard is an ideal, free tool for small business, it's important to understand additional mailing resources and equipment to better your business. |
| U.S. Small Businesses Gain Access to Alibaba's Global Platform Posted: 23 Jul 2019 10:49 AM PDT 
For the first time ever, Alibaba.com has opened its e-commerce platform to small- and medium-sized American businesses looking to sell their wares on the company's massive business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce marketplace. Created in 1999 by a group of Chinese students in Hangzhou, Alibaba has grown to become a powerhouse in global e-commerce. During that time, the company has grown to serve more than 10 million active buyers in more than 190 countries and regions. With today's announcement, nearly 30 million U.S. SMBs now have access to Alibaba's massive network of global buyers and sellers. "Alibaba aims to empower entrepreneurs and help them succeed on their own terms," said John Caplan, head of North America B2B at Alibaba Group. "We are reshaping B2B commerce by providing the tools and services needed for U.S. SMB companies to compete and succeed in today's global marketplace." Immediate benefits for U.S. SMBsAccording to the U.S. International Trade Commission, the B2B e-commerce market is worth nearly $24 trillion. Today's announcement not only makes that market more widely available to U.S. businesses, it also brings a host of new tools and services to help them grow, according to officials. Starting today, Alibaba's offerings in the U.S. will allow for easy domestic payments, digital marketing tools and a newly created in-house support team. To further assist small businesses looking to utilize Alibaba.com's new features, the company is going on tour with a series of interactive "Build Up" workshops around the U.S., with its first stop taking place today in Brooklyn, New York. Each stop will be co-produced with local chambers of commerce and B2B organizations. "Small businesses are the engine of the U.S. economy, but they face challenges," said Ken Yancey, CEO of SCORE. "SCORE and our network of mentors are excited about helping U.S. businesses learn about the huge opportunity in e-commerce at these physical and virtual Build Up workshops available to communities across the U.S." Unlike Amazon, eBay and other e-commerce solutions, Alibaba.com announced it would not take any commission on each sale, allowing sellers to keep more of the profits. Rather than skim a little off the top from each transaction, SMBs looking to take advantage of the platform will have to pay a nearly $2,000 membership fee to get started on the platform, which is a stark contrast to the monthly or per-item charges that Amazon requires from its third-party sellers. In the future, officials said they expect American businesses to be able to accept global online payments, improve local and global shipping and logistical capabilities, and increase collaborations with other major e-commerce players. New features for U.S. businessesTo help U.S. sellers succeed on the platform, Alibaba.com added features to streamline the process for both local and global business. U.S. business sellers will be able to take advantage of the following new features:
U.S. businesses looking to buy products will also see new features added to Alibaba.com, including:
While these new features launch today, some larger U.S. companies have already opened storefronts on Alibaba.com, including Office Depot, which announced its partnership with the Chinese company back in March. Other American companies that have joined the Alibaba.com marketplace include 71lbs, BigCommerce, Indeed, TeamViewer and Wellbots. |
| 5 Money-Saving Ideas for Your Newly-Funded Business Posted: 23 Jul 2019 10:00 AM PDT  In the startup world, about 70% of startups closed shop about 20 months after the first round of funding. Out of these, 29% failed after running out of cash, which was the second-most popular reason for startup failure identified in a CB Insights report. Employing smart, money-saving practices isn't just a domain reserved for million-dollar startups in Silicon Valley. Entrepreneurs, especially those with businesses that have just landed a loan or investment opportunity, need to find ways to prioritize expenses and stave off the temptation to splurge. Poor money management remains one of the leading reasons why relationships between entrepreneurs and their investors turn sour, which contributes to the high failure rate for businesses with a history of one or more rounds of funding. While all businesses can benefit from money-saving strategies instituted around the office, newly-funded enterprises need to go an extra mile to keep investors happy. Here are a few ideas to build an efficient, money-saving entity that will not only keep current investors satisfied, but will also improve your chances of getting subsequent rounds of funding. 1. Implement lean management practices from the start.One effective way to save money within the company is by infusing the principles of lean management early on. First popularized within the manufacturing industry as a way to reduce waste and boost efficiency, lean management principles can be applied at all levels of your business and can be one of the best ways to show your investors the practical steps you're taking to run your business efficiently. In addition to reduced waste and improved efficiency, lean management principles can help your business reduce operating costs and eliminate things that don't really add value to your young business, which is something that any investor will appreciate. To get started, eliminate wasteful tendencies around the office, including poorly-run meetings and excess inventory that ties up capital. Automate as much as possible to save time for the most important elements of your business and remember to use free trials and cheaper alternatives when it comes to software and applications. Seek out additional ideas that help you infuse lean management principles into everyday operations for maximum savings. 2. Look for ways to run efficient, measurable marketing campaigns.While marketing remains one of the most important pillars of a growing business, a poorly-designed marketing and advertising campaign can quickly gobble up your newly-found resources, leaving you scampering to restrategize. Indeed, there's no shortage of horror stories when it comes to entrepreneurs who burnt through investor funds via their marketing campaigns. Perhaps the most memorable one was that of Fling, a social media startup that went bankrupt a few years after raising over $21 million in funding. Among many of the company's excesses was a marketing campaign that saw the startup splash money on a wild social media campaign immediately after launch. Even though the campaign saw app user numbers rise by the thousands every day, the numbers took a wild dip after marketing funds ran out, a direct result of the company concentrating on inorganic instead of organic traffic. There are many ways to mess up when it comes to marketing, especially when you have a whole chest of investor funds to play around with. So, to ensure you stay on the safe side, concentrate purely on marketing efforts that are measurable. Measurable marketing involves concentrating your time and money on tactics that generate revenue as opposed to those that generate business – at least early on. Take for instance Facebook Messenger, one of the fastest-growing marketing platforms on the planet. This platform provides a powerful and personal avenue for B2C connections, thanks to the 47% of active Facebook users who access this platform via their mobile phones. Including this and related strategies in your marketing plan provides an affordable way to track the impact of your marketing efforts while creating an avenue for both revenue generation and organic business growth. Because cash reserves are limited, you want to use the limited funds you have for campaigns that generate actionable data that can be used to improve future marketing campaigns. Editor's note: Need a loan for your business? Fill out the below questionnaire to have our vendor partners contact you with free information. 3. Take advantage of tax deductions and exemptions.While taxes can be a painful expense item on an income statement or balance sheet, there are a ton of ways to use tax deductions to make some significant cash savings. Tax deductions include everything from auto expenses and employee benefits to little-known items, such as the interest on your loan, that have been defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as "helpful and appropriate." There are additional savings to be made, thanks to tax reforms that have been sweeping the corporate world over the past couple of years. According to one analysis, the $5.6 million tax exemption that went into effect in 2018 could have significant effects on income and corporate taxes for individuals and businesses, and is something startups should watch out for over the coming years. In addition to the IRS website, the Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a ton of information on tax deductions and exemptions that may apply to your business. Your tax or financial advisor can also help identify opportunities for savings, so make sure there's at least one person on your team keeping tabs on all business expenses and reporting the same as deductions on your returns, helping you save significant sums of cash for your business. 4. Streamline your HR functions.One of the biggest perks of being a business owner is the ability to manage a workforce, which, for newly funded startups, shows investors your determination to achieve your business's goals and objectives. Human resource departments, however, are among the biggest culprits when it comes to financial wastage within an organization. Businesses can lose money via many HR-related elements, including long and expensive hiring processes, high employee turnover rates, duplicate job roles – and perhaps the biggest headache for investors – litigation as a result of poor employee relations. By making your HR department run more efficiently, you can create real opportunities to save money, not only within the HR department, but across different levels of your business structure. One effective way to get started is by employing technology to manage some of the functions that require hands-on labor. Hiring, one of the most resource-intensive elements of a business, can be done online so that the process of applications and interviews can be done without committing a significant amount of resources there. You can also save money by using a cloud-based HR solution to help with employee relations, payroll, training, and as a base for your employee retention program, which is another important money-saving practice you should use for your business. 5. Make technology work for you.In addition to using tech as part of your HR strategy, you can stretch it into other facets of your business – not only to help save money but also to provide accountability and visibility into your business operations, which would offer a significant boost to investor relations. There's literally nothing you can't automate around the office. From billing, procurement and invoicing to file sharing and collaboration, technology provides a host of money-saving opportunities for small businesses. Still, poorly thought-out IT policies can actually cause your business to spend more money than is feasible. Too often, businesses redirect significant chunks of investor funds into the latest tech – including expensive certification and technical training – without conducting proper cost-benefit analysis to determine whether these expenses are worth it. Then, when things go wrong, these businesses often find themselves burning through available funds while trying to fix these problems. For instance, while an integrated-payments system might improve checkout speeds on your website, things like downtime and exposure to vulnerabilities might cost you dearly if you don't have an internal mitigation strategy. Consequently, it is important to identify opportunities that add value before investing in new tech. To this end, ensure you and any fellow founders understand the intricacies around new technology before committing any of your investors' money. Prepare a comprehensive IT strategy that includes everything from BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies to an analysis of how your IT backbone aligns with your company's strategic goals. This way, you reduce the risks associated with poor, costly IT decisions on one hand while keeping your investors happy on the other. Remember, at the end of the day, you don't want to be at pains to explain how the previous batch of funds was used. By instilling elements of agility and efficiency within your business, you'll be more likely to convert your investment into growth and increase your chances at closing a subsequent batch of investment. |
| Mail Solutions to Save You Time and Money Posted: 23 Jul 2019 08:28 AM PDT  Direct mail marketing isn't always considered a viable option in 2019, but direct mail marketing can work. According to Marketing Sherpa, 76% of customers trust direct mail when making purchasing decisions. That's higher than numerous digital marketing methods, including online banner ads, ads embedded in social media and sponsored posts online. Direct mail can be successful in 2019. If your business relies on direct mail or it wants to start relying on direct mail, it's worth investing in small business postage solutions. Many affordable options exist, and nearly all of them can save you time and money. For small to medium-sized businesses receiving frequent mail, you might want to purchase several tools to improve the efficiency of your operation. If your business is looking to ship packages out of its location, you can invest in scales with postage-printing capabilities to avoid the post office altogether. The range of small business postage tools is wide and includes everything from inexpensive letter openers to more costly shipping software solutions. What you decide to purchase depends on your business needs. What to look for in direct mail solutionsWhen looking at direct mail solutions, there are a few key areas to focus on. First, look at how frequently your business sends and receives mail. Do you send direct mail advertisements or information once a week? Do you send mail daily? Your need for mail solutions will vary based on how often you send and receive mail. Businesses that send and receive large quantities of mail may want to invest in shipping software, letter openers and folding machines. Smaller firms that don't use mail frequently don't need those same tools. You'll also want to address what it is that your business is mailing. If you're mailing packages to customers, there might be specific shipping standards your business must follow. If you're mailing marketing materials, you want to make sure you don't spam customers by sending too many items or sending materials too frequently. To make sure you follow guidelines and adhere to all shipping standards, it can be helpful to have direct mail solutions. For example, postage meters print postage directly on envelopes. Using this machine can ensure you don't forget to include postage on your mail. You want mail solutions that align with your business goals. If your goal is to frequently ship items to customers, shipping software and folding machines might be the best solutions for you. If your goal is to legally ship a few items monthly to select customers, you might only need a postage meter. When looking for direct mail solutions, look for the solutions that can make a meaningful difference in your business. Don't buy a mailing solution just for the sake of purchasing something. Direct mail campaigns aren't for everyone, and it's OK if your business uses a different strategy. Finding the right mail solutions for your business requires an understanding of direct mailing best practices and then applying those to your business's strategy. Direct mailing best practicesWhile there's no perfect solution to create effective direct mail campaigns, there are a few best practices.
Much like email marketing, you want your direct mail campaigns to be relevant to the recipient. You don't want to send excessive amounts of mail, and you should include calls to action. Following these rules will help you achieve greater success in your mail campaigns. It's also important to use postage solutions that benefit your business. Take advantage of the many different affordable postage solutions on the market to run your direct mail campaigns more effectively. Postage solutions are affordable, and they can help your mailing systems operate more efficiently. Direct mail is often overlooked in 2019, but it can be well worth the cost when used correctly. If you are searching for postage meters, folding machines or other postage solutions to help improve your mail campaigns, here are a few companies to consider. 1. Data-Pac Mailing Systems (postage meters, shipping software)Data-Pac has been in the mailing industry for more than 35 years. It offers hardware and software solutions that work in tandem to make it easier for SMB to ship parcels without setting foot in the post office. With roughly a dozen hardware systems to choose from, Data-Pac can meet the needs of tiny businesses with modest mailing needs, as well as large businesses that require features like mixed thickness feeders, dual carrier options, and optional weighing platforms. Data-Pac's USHIPSAVER is a shipping software application that allows companies to ship and mail many different types of packages. The shipping software is designed to save roughly $10 per day, according to the company's website. The best way to find the Data-Pac system that's right for your business is to reach out to one of their sales representatives for assistance. 2. Formax (folding machines, software)Formax sells a variety of mailing solutions, including inserters, folders, tabbers, envelope openers and sealers, pressure sealers, mailing software and more. The folding machines Formax sells run the gamut from compact folders like the FD 300, which processes 11-inch and 14-inch paper at speeds of 7,400 sheets an hour, to robust powerhouses like the Atlas-AS Air-Feed Document Folder, which processes up to 27,500 sheets per hour and sports a 7-inch touchscreen control panel. To find out more about the Formax's line of business products, reach out to the sales team. Editor's Note: Considering mailing equipment for your small business? Use the questionnaire below to get information from a variety of vendors for free: 3. FP Mailing Solutions (postage meters, folding machines, software)A true one-stop shop for small business owners, FB Mailing Solutions offers everything a business could need when it comes to mailing, which makes it easy to scale your mailing upwards as your business grows. While many other mailing solutions companies offer a confusing array of customizable options, FP Mailing Solutions separates their hardware by series, simplifying the shopping process. The Small Business Series is perfect for entrepreneurs who need lots of functionality in a small package. From small-space friendly postage meters, like the PostBase Mini Postage Meter, to tiny-footprint folders, like the FPi 600 Folder inserter, FP Mailing's line of SMB products is well designed and varied. Price quotes may be requested directly through the website. 4. MyBinding (letter-folding machines, binding machines)MyBinding sells a variety of different binding and folding machines. The company's offerings for paper-folding machines are extensive. If you're looking for low, medium or high-volume paper-folding machines, MyBinding offers several options in each category. Pricing for the different letter-folding machines varies. Of the different paper-folding machines on sale, prices range from $500 all the way up to the $15,000 range. The letter-folding machines come from several manufacturers, including Martin Yale, Intimus and Dahle. The company also offers a selection of binding machines and supplies. MyBinding claims to offer more binding machines and book-binding systems than any other company on the internet. If you're looking to bind materials prior to mailing them out, MyBinding is a sensible place for your business to look. 5. Intelli-Zone (folding machines)Intelli-Zone sells six folding machines and little else in terms of mailing solutions. However, this company stands apart from the rest because it offers two industry-specific folding machines. The Intelli-Fold DF-304VC and DF-304C are geared toward pharmaceutical folding and instructional documentation. Most folding machines cannot complete the tight, small folds that are required for technical brochures, making Intelli-Zone's offering invaluable to business owners in certain industries. Intelli-Zone also sells more standard folding machines, but its offering is relatively narrow compared to other vendors on this list. 6. Martin Yale Industries (folding machines)Martin Yale Industries offers a broad range of folding machines that are best suited for small businesses, schools, churches and mailrooms. The company's folders range in size from a small, single-sheet-fed, 8.5 x 11-inch (47 x 28 cm) desktop unit to a 12 x 18-inch (30.5 x 46 cm) format with a feed-table capacity of up to 500 sheets. Folders are available with a variety of options, including preset positions for standard folds on manual adjustment machines and preset, pre-programmed folds on electronic automatic machines. The Martin Yale Folding Machines can process from 2,200 to 20,000 sheets per hour. 7. Neopost (postage meters, folding machines, software, address printers)Neopost's mailing systems and letter-folding/insert machines are specifically designed with small businesses in mind. Models range from petite desktop machines built for home offices to larger mailroom designs with built-in scales and touchscreens. The company's postage meters can process more than 140 U.S. Postal Service rates and services. Neopost also offers machines that specifically fold letters, as well as devices than can handle inserts and folding letters. Its small business options can fold from 1,350 to as many as 2,400 letters per hour. Neopost sells address printers as well. The website lists five address-printing systems on its website, which are designed for businesses of varying sizes. 8. Pitney Bowes (postage meters, folding machines, software, letter openers)Pitney Bowes offers several types of postage meters and letter-folding machines, as well as mailing services, inserters, letter openers, sorters, specialty printers and software solutions. The business's letter opener selection includes the DL200 Letter Opener, which can open 250 letters per minute. This type of machine is better geared toward businesses receiving mass quantities of mail. The DL50 model is better designed for smaller operations. While many of the products and services Pitney Bowes offers are targeted toward enterprises, the company offers suitable postage meters and folding machines for SMB as well. The SendPro C200 is compact and powerful and allows entrepreneurs to compare options from three major carriers (including USPS and UPS), print postage, weigh packages, print shipping labels and more. The mailstation2 postage meter acts as a scale and prints postage as well. Pitney Bowes, which has one of the most diverse selections of postage tools of the companies on this list, also offers affordable financing for its mailing solutions; some systems are as low as $36.99 per month. Additional reporting by Mona Bushnell and Chad Brooks. |
| Choosing a Conference Call Service: A Buyer's Guide Posted: 23 Jul 2019 08:24 AM PDT  As the remote workforce grows in 2019, being able to communicate with co-workers around the country is critical. Conference calling services help facilitate that collaboration. While email, instant messaging and video chats all have their place, conference calling remains a primary communication tool in today's work environment. When face-to-face meetings aren't possible, many organizations turn to conference call services to help colleagues communicate and collaborate. Conference calls allow groups of professionals to meet remotely over the phone. Unlike video conference services that require camera-equipped computers and special software, all that's needed for a conference call is a telephone. And since everyone already knows how to place a phone call, conference calling eliminates barriers to a smooth and productive remote meeting. In this guide, we highlight the conference call services we think are the best for businesses in 2019. We also explain how we selected our best picks, how much you should expect to pay for a conference call service, the different types of conference call services and what features to look for when choosing a service. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive list of conference call services in case the options we recommend aren't a fit for your business. Editor's note: Looking for information on conference call services? Use the questionnaire below, and our vendor partners will contact you to provide you with the information you need. Best Conference Call ServicesBest Service Overall: Conference Calling by Vast ConferenceConference Calling by Vast Conference is a robust service that offers everything businesses need, including the option of both reservationless and operator-assisted services. This gives you the freedom to host everyday meetings, as well as large formal conferences when the need arises. The reservationless system supports up to 500 callers at a time. It is available in both monthly and pay-as-you-go pricing plans. The monthly plans allow you to host as many calls as you want each month for one flat fee. Prices range between $14.99 and $39.99 per month. The plans vary depending on the number of people that can be on a call at once and cloud storage space. The pay-as-you-go plan costs 3.5 cents per minute, per caller. The operator-assisted service can handle calls with up to 6,000 participants. This type of service is typically used for large formal conference calls. You have access to an operator who will help you plan and run the call; they go over itineraries, send out email invitations, greet callers and conduct Q&A sessions, among other things. Conference Calling offers a wide selection of valuable features, such as customizable greetings, dial out options, call recording and web controls. In addition, users have access to HD video conferencing tools for face-to-face video calls. This also allows for screen sharing when making presentations. You can read a full review of Conference Calling on our sister site Business.com. Best Free Service: FreeConferenceCall.comFreeConferenceCall.com has everything small businesses need in a conference call service, all for no cost. The reservationless service allows businesses to conduct conference calls with up to 1,000 attendees. Calls can be scheduled in advanced or hosted spontaneously. In addition to the free plan, there is also a paid plan – StartMeeting – that costs $14.95 per month. The biggest differences between the two plans is that those using the free service are presented with ads for FreeConferenceCall.com when they join a call. Ads for the service are also included on email invitations that are sent to participants. The paid plan doesn't display ads. Both plans include call recording, web meeting controls, keypad commands, and the ability to have participants leave a main conference to join a break-out room for a subconference call. FreeConferenceCall.com also lets you host online meetings that allow for screen sharing, chat tools, drawing tools and recording options. The service integrates with Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar and offers a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. You can read a full review of FreeConferenceCall.com on our sister site Business.com. Best Service Within a Phone System: RingCentralRingCentral is an impressive unified communications system that has an equally impressive conference call service built into it. The conference call bridge comes standard on each user's extension and can support up to 1,000 callers at a time. The system allows any user to host a conference call without having to schedule it in advance. It includes free call recording and a Microsoft Outlook integration makes it easy to schedule a meeting. RingCentral offers local dial-in numbers in more than 50 countries for meetings with callers located outside the U.S. The conference call services are included in the RingCentral Office platform, a unified communications system that offers everything businesses need in a phone system. It has a wide range of calling, collaboration and mobile features. This includes voicemail, voicemail-to-email, one-touch calling, call recording, auto-attendants, IVRs and a softphone. It also includes video conferencing and a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Costs for RingCentral Office range from $29.99 to $59.99 per user, per month. You save $10 per user, per month if you pay annually. There is a 30-day free trial. You can read our full review of RingCentral on our sister site Business.com. Best Service for a Remote Workforce: WebexWebex from Cisco is a web conference service that includes conference calling. With this service, participants can connect to a meeting either via their phones or computers. For anyone to join a meeting by phone, the host must join online via their computer or change the meeting settings to allow everyone to connect from their phones. Those on the phone can participate just as if they had joined from a computer. WebEx includes call recording and a call-me tool that allows the system to call you when the meeting is set to begin. Webex is available in three different pricing plans that vary based on the number of people who can attend a conference, how many host licenses you can have, the amount of cloud storage space and the level customer support. Prices range from $14.95 to $29.95 per host, per month. You save 10% by paying annually instead of monthly. A bonus of Webex is that all users have access to its Teams platform. This is a digital workspace designed to facilitate collaboration among employees. It includes group messaging, file sharing and whiteboarding. You can read a full review of Webex on our sister site Business.com. MethodologyTo determine the best conference calling services, we started by looking at a comprehensive list of nearly 30 conference call service providers. We pared that list down by focusing on vendors that had solid online reputations, such as those services that were consistently ranked highly by other websites. We also visited each company's website. If a company stood out to our reviewers, it was added to the final list. We eventually narrowed the pool of contenders to 17 service providers: Arkadin, AT Conference, ConferenceCalls.com, Conference Town, FreeConference, FreeConferenceCall.com, Free Conference Pro, Infinite Conferencing, InterCall, No Cost Conference, PGI, RingCentral, Totally Free Conference, UberConference, Vast Conference, WebEx and Zip Conferencing. Next, the team continued to research each contender by investigating its services, watching tutorials and how-to videos, testing out the service when possible, and reading user comments. After narrowing the list down even further, we contacted the customer support team of the finalists, posing as business owners to gauge the type of service each provider offers its users. In all, they analyzed each system based on the following criteria:
Types of Conference Call ServicesThere are two main types of conference calling services: reservationless and operator-assisted. While the two cover the same basic idea of allowing multiple people to be on one conference call at a time, they vary in how they are used and how many people they can support.
Cost of Conference Call ServicesConference call services typically have two sets of cost structures. Some charge you on a per-call basis, while others charge a flat monthly fee for unlimited use. With pay-as-you-go plans, you a charged a per-minute fee for each caller. For a reservationless service, these fees typically range from 2 to 10 cents per minute. Operator-assisted services are more expensive, where per-minute fees range from 15 to 30 cents. It is important to remember that these per-minute fees are for each participant on the call. For example, a 30-minute reservationless call with eight callers, including the host, would likely cost between $4.80 and $24. A 30-minute operator-assisted call with 100 participants would cost between $450 and $900. Unlimited monthly plans are usually only offered with reservationless services. With these plans, you can host any length of meeting as often as you want. Unlimited monthly plans tend to range from $7 to $60 per month. Many conference call providers offer multiple pricing plans that vary on how many people can join a call at one time. Depending on the service provider you choose, there can be some extra fees. Some providers charge extra for things like call recording, translations, transcriptions and customized greetings. Conference Call Service FeaturesWhen choosing a conference call service, it is important to ensure it offers what your business needs. Among some of the most important features to look for include:
What to Expect in 2020Artificial intelligence will likely see an expanded role in conference calling services throughout the rest of 2019 and into 2020. Currently, several different companies use artificial intelligence to turn phone calls and conference calls into smart calls. Instead of diligently take notes during an important call, you may be able to turn that task over to an artificial intelligence that can take notes for you and provide you with all the key points when the call is over. One phone system and conference call service provider, DialPad, has already introduced this type of technology into its services . Last year DialPad acquired Talk IQ, a provider of speech recognition and predictive analytics technology. With this technology, DialPad, which also offers UberConference, unveiled VoiceAI. The new feature provides users with, among other things, real-time call transcriptions and end-of-call summaries that include action items, follow-ups and important moments. While DialPad is one of the first to build this type of technology into its core platform, we expect other providers to follow suit in 2019. Artificial intelligence is becoming more prominent in a wide range of B2B services and software, and vendors don't want to see all their competitors get a leg up. Conference Call ServicesHere is a full list of conference call services and a summary of what each company claims to offer. This alphabetical list also includes our best picks. AnyMeeting – AnyMeeting is a web conferencing service that includes conference calling for up to 200 callers. Your AnyMeeting account includes a conference call number and PIN codes for you and your attendees. Pro subscribers can provide their attendees a U.S. toll-free number to call for their meetings. As a conference call host, you'll have full call controls, including the ability to mute and unmute attendees, lock the call, and control entry and exit chimes. anymeeting.com Arkadin – Arkadin offers both reservationless and operator-assisted conference calling services. Arkadin Anytime, the reservationless service, hosts meetings with up to 100 participants and features call recording, one-time PINs and phone keypad controls. The operator-assisted service provides a dedicated representative who helps plan and manage your conference call. arkadin.com AT Conference – AT Conference is a completely on-demand conference call service that allows you to conduct conference calls 24/7 using any landline or mobile phone. It has an easy-to-use platform with cloud conferencing tools. AT Conference also offers operator-assisted conference calling services. atconference.com Civicom – Civicom offers both on-demand and operator-assisted conference calling services. The on-demand service supports up to 2,500 callers, while the operator-assisted service can host meetings with as many as 5,000 callers. Features include call recording, full host controls, secure entry, pre-conference green rooms, hands-free conference entry and instant call summary reports. civi.com ConferenceCalls.com – ConferenceCalls.com's audio conferencing is easy to use, and its reservationless conference calls require no contracts or commitments. It has local access coverage in over 20 countries, along with toll-free access and global dial-out options. The reservationless service supports calls with up 50 people and offers call recording. Operator-assisted conference calling is also available. conferencecalls.com Conference Calling – Conference Calling by Vast Conference offers reservationless and operator-assisted conference calling services. The reservationless service can support up to 500 callers at one time, while the operator-assisted service can host calls with up to 6,000 participants. The service features web controls, call recording, custom greetings and outbound dialing. conferencecalling.com Conference Calls Unlimited – Conference Calls Unlimited provides phone conferencing, web conferencing and operator-attended services. The company offers customized pay-per-use and monthly pricing. The on-demand service is available 24/7 and includes call recording. conferencecallsunlimited.com ConferTel – ConferTel offers on-demand, unassisted audio conferencing for everyday use as well as operator-assisted services for large-scale, high-profile conference calls that require special attention and white glove concierge services. Features include call recording, custom greetings and transcriptions. confertel.net ConferenceTown.com – ConferenceTown.com was developed to offer free conference calling to both corporations and casual users. ConferenceTown.com offers a Free Instant Conference option, which allows you to start a conference instantly, without registering or signing up. The service supports up to 5,000 callers at a time and includes call recording for no charge. conferencetown.com FreeConference.com – FreeConference.com offers a complete set of free audio and web conferencing features, including international dial-ins, moderator controls, call summaries, screen sharing, call recording and SMS notifications. The reservationless service can host calls with up to 400 participants at one time. freeconference.com FreeConferenceCall.com – FreeConferenceCall.com is a reservationless service that allows for unlimited calls each month for no cost. The service features HD audio conferencing, screen sharing, video conferencing, audio and visual recordings, customized greetings, security features, calendar integrations and mobile apps. freeconferencecall.com FreeConferenceCalling – FreeConferenceCalling is a reservationless conference call service that allows you to host meetings on-demand with up to 1,000 callers. The service features call reporting, call reports, and an online conference manager. freeconferencecalling.com Free Conference Pro – Free Conference Pro is a free, full-featured audio conferencing service. You can make unlimited conference calls without having to pay for any bridging time. Both on-demand and scheduled conferencing is available. Both options can support as many as 800 callers at one time. freeconferencepro.com Infinite Conferencing – Infinite Conferencing offers reservationless and operator-assisted conference calling services. The reservationless service, which supports up to 100 callers, includes dual passcodes, international dialing, dial out, call recording and mobile apps. infiniteconferencing.com Instant Conference – Instant Conference is a reservationless conference call service that can support as many as 150 participants on each call. The web-based moderator controls let the host monitor attendance and activate call features, such as recording or changing the call's muting configuration. An online control panel displays available Caller ID information, and you can "ping" individual participants to take roll call. instantconference.com InterCall – InterCall's Reservationless-Plus service does not require reservations or operators. You control the conference commands from your telephone keypad, and you can select from English, Spanish or Portuguese for your system prompts. In addition, use the Conferencing Center to manage your account and conference calls online. InterCall also offers customized features and operator-assisted services. http://intercallonline.com/ResPlus No Cost Conference – No Cost Conference provides instant, unlimited, automated conference calls that are free and take place over regular telephone lines (including cell phones) – no computer or internet access is required. The conference call services are available 24/7 with no scheduling. Callers may also access conferences via VoIP services like Skype. The service can host as many as 500 callers at one time. nocostconference.com OnConference – OnConference is a conference call service with toll-free access in more than 100 countries. No reservations or advanced bookings are required, and you can host up to 96 participants. You'll get your own dedicated access codes, and the service features call recording. onconference.com PGI – PGI's GlobalMeet conference calling service offers both reservationless and operator-assisted options. The reservationless service features call recording and web controls. The operator-assisted service helps with planning and running the conference calls. Customer support is available 24/7. pgi.com/globalmeet-audio-conferencing QCONF – QCONF is a reservationless conference call service that features unlimited conferencing minutes, call recording, Outlook and Google integration, branded welcome messages, customized invitations, real-time controls and SMS reminders. qconf.com RingCentral – RingCentral is a business phone system that includes a robust conference calling service. Each user has access to their own conference bridge, which can support up to 1,000 callers at a time. The reservationless service allows users to host conference calls without any advanced scheduling. The conferencing feature integrates with Microsoft Outlook. ringcentral.com Toll Free Conference – Toll Free Conference offers both reservationless and operator-assisted conference calling services. Reservationless meetings can host up to 300 callers, while the operator-assisted service can support up to 6,000 participants at a time. The service features call recording, web-based call management and a conference call reporting platform. tollfreeconference.com Totally Free Conference Calls – Totally Free Conference Calls allows you to host a conference whenever you want. No reservations are required. Free calls can support up to 500 callers at a time; however, for a nominal fee the limit can increase to 10,000. Features include an echo canceler, full web controls, call recording, scheduled replays, presentation mode, Q&A mode and reports of the call's details. totallyfreeconferencecalls.com Turbo Bridge – Turbo Bridge provides a "meet-me" conferencing service, where all parties dial into the system. No special equipment is required, and most callers dial in with a standard landline or mobile phone, though callers could also connect through a computer. The service can host meetings with up to 300 callers at one time. Call recording is available for no extra charge. turbobridge.com UberConference – UberConference is a reservationless conference calling service that allows you to launch meetings from the office, home, or on the go with any device. It features screen sharing, call controls, custom hold music, call-you tools, call recording, dial-out options, international calling, and mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. uberconference.com Webex – Webex is a web conferencing service that allows participants to join meetings via the phone. Once one participant has joined online, all the other participants can join by dialing in. This gives your employees the flexibility to join a web conference even if they're not near a computer. The service features call recording and a call-me tool. webex.com Zip Conferencing – Zip Conferencing offers reservationless and operator-assisted conference calling services. The reservationless service, which can host meetings with up to 300 callers, includes call recording, customizable settings, call blocking and multiple-presenter controls. The operator-assisted service can host meetings with up to 3,000 participants. zipconferencing.com If you'd like your company to be added to the list and possibly considered as a best pick for our next round of reviews, please email your request to: b2bconsiderrequest@business.com. Editor's note: Looking for information on conference call services? Use the questionnaire below, and our vendor partners will contact you to provide you with the information you need. |
| The 7 Best Ways to Market Your Business Online Posted: 23 Jul 2019 08:00 AM PDT  It is useless to think your website will increase in rankings if you just wait long enough. In the era of consumption, everyone wants to get fast results with minimal effort. Only hard work and the use of multiple marketing channels can put your brand in the spotlight. There are no simple ways to implement large-scale and long-term positive transformations. You must do something useful and valuable with your website on a daily basis to earn a higher ranking. Your endeavors should not be chaotic. If you do not understand what you are doing, you risk wasting precious time and resources. You need to develop a strategy to move your brand to the top of search rankings. Here are the seven best ways to market your brand online. Throughout my long digital marketing career, I have personally tried each approach, and can say with confidence that these methods will exceed your boldest expectations if you use them thoughtfully. 1. Share valuable information in your blogBlogging is a great way to improve your brand's reputation and supply your target audience with useful and relevant information. Deep familiarization with your goods and services will increase the number of loyal customers. People tend to trust companies that behave openly and transparently, share their news and insights, and invite the public to look behind the curtain to understand how their business operates. Your content should be high-quality, authoritative and, at the same time, entertaining. Spare your blog visitors from dry and boring instructions. If they want to study something boring, they can find plenty of information elsewhere. Bear in mind that text is not the only suitable format for blogs. You can create detailed and demonstrative video tutorials for YouTube that will be of great use to your target audience. Use videos to review new products, show how your goods can be used, share your experience and provide business tips to aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you share your computer screen or capture real-life scenes, make sure your sound and images are of high quality and your content is pleasant to view. Also, do not forget to insert a link to your website in the descriptions under your videos. Focus on delivering value rather than generating profit. Blogging is a long-term strategy, but it brings lasting effects. Editor's note: Looking for the right e-commerce website design service for your business? Fill out the below questionnaire to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs. 2. Reach out to the community on forumsTrying to advertise your brand to everyone on the web is a waste of time. You will have better success finding parties interested in your goods and services on forums. In this specialized environment, your message will reach recipients who understand its value. Be careful not to get spammy with your comments. Many entrepreneurs enter forums for the purpose of placing links and the topic does not always correspond to their business. This behavior is primitive and frowned upon, and spammers are often banned from the forums. Treat forum communication seriously. Establish yourself as a respected community member, shape an expert image and be ready to share your valuable knowledge with like-minded people. Do not insert your links right away. Your comments should not look promotional. Join a controversial conversation (for example, about B2B vs B2C, pros and cons of some product, the best brand in your niche, etc.) answer other visitors' questions, make suggestions and chat. After forum users begin trusting your opinion, add a link in your signature or messages where appropriate, but only if the forum administration allows you to do so. 3. If you sell on Amazon, advertise your brand on Amazon marketplacesIt can be challenging to create and advertise your own website from scratch, but a popular online marketplace can provide a reliable platform for a smooth start. There is no need to chase success by trial and error. Amazon's administration provides ready solutions and detailed step-by-step instructions on how to market online businesses and hit high sales goals. For example, you can incorporate its comprehensive advertising program, including sponsored products and sponsored brands, into your business strategy. These pay-per-click methods are based on keyword optimization and contextual targeting. You can attract the attention of potential users to certain goods and services, a landing page or your main Amazon store page. It is very convenient to utilize ready-made approaches, since the marketplace's support team is always there to lend a hand to help you overcome challenges. 4. Leverage social mediaIf you want people to associate your brand with entertainment and recreation, advertise where web users have fun and relax, especially social media platforms. Potential customers are less likely to discard your offers when they are in a good mood, after communicating with friends, viewing cute pictures or watching interesting videos. Of course, in the era of information, it is hard to make your messages stand out in a never-ending content feed. It is nearly impossible to achieve sufficient visibility and establish contact with thousands of subscribers by placing posts manually, so you will need special amplifiers and influencers, which are not free. But, the robust influx of clientele that you attract using this marketing strategy can make it worth the money you spend. 5. Take advantage of email marketingIt is very important to distinguish between well thought out digital marketing strategies and annoying spam. In the first case, you support your prospective clients rather than disturbing them. They will most likely enjoy the communication and send you positive feedback. An important challenge is forming an extensive email base. To build your email address book, offer something valuable without expecting anything but an email address in return. Since many entrepreneurs view email marketing as mere spam distribution, very few companies use it successfully, meaning you will not face serious competition. Try not to focus exclusively on selling in your emails. Your messages should be helpful to people interested in your niche, making it easy for them to make well-informed choices. If aggressive calls to action are the first things recipients see, your address may be relegated to a spam folder, never to be seen or used again. It is better to focus on successful business tips or product descriptions. 6. Offer free products and servicesEveryone likes gifts. Free trifles are a great way to shape a positive first impression. It is not obligatory to offer something expensive. An entry-level product or a 15-minute consultation is enough to satisfy potential clients and stimulate their loyalty to your brand. Apart from gaining customers' trust, you can also collect their demographic and contact data, which is a great way to prepare for an email marketing campaign. Apart from this, you can cross-sell. People are likely to buy more if they receive something for free. 7. Use the power of SEOIt can be difficult for a new brand to stand out from the crowd and quickly form loyal clientele. You can accelerate this process by incorporating popular keywords in your texts, meta descriptions and titles. This will strengthen your brand's authority, attract Google's attention to your online resource and generate more traffic. Do not simply stuff your texts with keywords. Make sure your content is of high quality and reader-friendly. Devote attention to both on-page and off-page optimization. SEO should be invisible to your potential clients. They should perceive that your articles and product descriptions were written to deliver helpful information rather than sell. Apart from using popular keywords, make sure your site is fast and mobile-friendly. No one will read your texts if it takes forever for your pages to load. If you do not optimize for mobile, people are likely to drop your website and find a less awkward resource. SEO is not a simple short-term fix. It is a long game, so make your efforts continuous and unrelenting. Success will not come quickly, but with a thoughtful approach, it will be long-lasting. Online marketing is more of a marathon than a sprint, so be patient and move persistently towards your goal. |
| 4 Things to Know Before Becoming A Freelance Writer Posted: 23 Jul 2019 07:00 AM PDT  Freelance writers set their own hours, work with clients they choose, and charge the amount they believe is fair. They dabble in all kinds of work including email marketing, copywriting, editing, and much more. It's true that there are several benefits to stepping into freelance work, but that doesn't mean it doesn't come with its own trials and tribulations. With a recent study showing that 83 percent of freelancers plan to continue their writing careers for at least the next five years, the competition isn't getting any slimmer. When you become a freelance writer, there's no longer a strictly set structure to your everyday routine. You're the only one responsible for creating it. When you become your own boss, you're in charge of making and keeping clients, ensuring that business flows smoothly, and making enough income to live off of. There's a lot to consider before diving into a career of freelance writing, including:
Here's more on what to expect before becoming a freelance writer. 1. Setting clear, firm expectations is a mustWhen you become a freelance writer, you also become your own boss. You no longer have anyone to mitigate issues or take the blow when things get tough. You are the only one responsible for the work you put out and how clients receive it. They are the bread and butter of your business, as they provide you with tasks to complete and monetary compensation. You don't want an avoidable predicament to take place because either party wasn't fully aware of the situation at hand. That's why it's important to set clear expectations from the very beginning. Don't skirt around difficult subjects, especially pay rates. If you expect a specific amount from your client for the work you're providing them, then stick to that amount unless you believe there's room for negotiation. Freelance writers who are pushovers are paid less for even the most high-quality work they do and aren't satisfied with their business because they're being shorted. Some clients take advantage of freelancers' fear of being dropped without warning for another, cheaper freelancer, as this is a common occurrence. Freelancers in other parts of the world where the cost of living is lower can get away with charging less, which makes it more difficult for freelancers with higher-cost living to get jobs with the pay they expect. While it's a privilege to work remotely, it comes with its own set of very real obstacles that cause stress and frustration. It's important to set realistic expectations for your client about the details of the project, the pay you expect, and the amount of time it will take you to complete. Draft a contract and study examples online that other freelancers use with their clients. You should always have a contract in writing with clients so that you're ensured proper compensation within the time limit. Whether you do this with a lawyer or not is up to you. If any issues arise, you can refer back to the contract to come to an agreement that works for both parties. 2. Your income will fluctuateWhen working in freelance, you aren't going to make the same amount of money every month. Whether you become a full-time blogger or write copy for other businesses, you'll face different challenges at first when it comes to your income. You'll have clients whose projects change, you'll take on new clients, and let go of old ones. It's essential to remember that your income will fluctuate so that you can prepare for times when it's low. Set an amount aside for emergencies so you can rest easy knowing that, if you truly need it, the money is there for you to live off of. You should always prepare for the worst when you're your own boss because things happen unexpectedly sometimes, and that's natural for freelance businesses. As long as you take care of yourself and continue to add to your savings, you'll be good during those challenging moments where you aren't making as much as before. As long as you continue hunting for new opportunities, making network connections, and working towards expanding your business, eventually those clients will come your way. 3. Understand that it gets lonelySpending a lot of time by yourself at home to complete work tasks sounds great at first, but once you actually live this reality, it dawns on you just how isolating it can be. Imagine sitting in silence while staring at your computer for five days, at least, a week. The thought of skipping out on coworkers' small talk seems enticing at first, but as human beings, we crave social connection throughout our days, no matter how minimal. Creating trusting and supportive relationships with others is what helped us survive as we evolved into social beings. Studies show that loneliness has negative effects on our health. When people feel lonely, they release higher levels of the stress hormone called cortisol, which can lead to high blood pressure, anxiety and strokes. Prepare for lonely times ahead. Break the monotony of your regular routine and get out of the house. Work at a coffee shop or library and enjoy others' company even if you aren't chatting with them. Sometimes just physically being around other people is enough to feel like you're still a functioning part of society. It's important to put importance into your social life when you freelance because spending time with loved ones is essential to refuel and feel fulfilled. You won't enjoy your work if you feel neglected in other areas of life, so set aside time dedicated to hanging out with friends and family. 4. Stick to one or two nichesAt first, it might sound like a good idea to be a jack of all trades kind of writer, but a generalized approach only works some of the time. If you need a social media marketing expert to further your reach on social, would you rather hire a lifestyle blogger or someone with social media experience? The same goes for freelance writing. If a professional is in search of a political blogger, they don't want to hire someone whose specialties are in marketing, food, and arts and crafts, because it isn't what they're skilled in. Business owners want expert writers who specialize in one or two fields and excel at them. This increases their chances of publishing high-quality, research-backed content that's popular with their target market and improves lead generation. It gives writers the opportunity to net higher-paying clients and build a portfolio they're proud of. If you can't focus on just one, pick a few different niches that interest you and also have demand behind them. Business, technology and digital marketing are constantly expanding and in need of more educated, knowledgeable writers. As freeing and pleasant as it sounds, becoming a freelance writer is about more than working whatever hours you want and avoiding small talk. It's a serious business where you make income, work with clients, and create content based on their specific needs. If not handled with care, you could face disaster down the line. It's essential to set clear expectations of what the job entails and stick to one or two main niches. Realize that this line of work gets lonely at times and the income won't always be as stable as what a nine-to-five provides. Having a plan helps ensure you're prepared for whatever's to come so that your writing business reaches its goals. |
| How to Quit a Job (The Right Way) Posted: 23 Jul 2019 05:30 AM PDT  There are many reasons why you might want to leave a job, whether you're ready to take the next step in your career, planning on starting a new business or are unhappy in your current position. Once you realize you're ready to move on, though, it's important to prepare to leave and resign from your role in the right way. Not only do you want to set yourself up for a smooth transition, but you should avoid burning any bridges on the way out the door. How exactly do you quit the right way? These steps will ensure your transition is stable and your relationships are preserved when you leave your job. 1. Consider your reasons for quittingBefore you even consider how to leave a job, you'll want to take some time to think things through. Weigh the pros and cons of staying in your current job versus quitting. Consider factors, such as compensation, work-life balance, work environment, long-term goals and the overall trajectory of your career. Critically analyze the reasons you think you want to make a career change and whether those reasons are best served by your resignation. "Put your head down and deeply assess your current and future conditions to make sure you are making the right decision at the right time," said Sophie Miles, CEO and co-founder of elMejorTrato. "Remember that there is no hurry if you still need time to mature your idea or your new business." If you're uncertain about furnishing your resignation, sleep on it. There's no harm spending a few more weeks mulling it over before settling on a decision. Once you've chosen to quit your job, though, it's important to develop a concrete plan that best serves your future. 2. Have a plan in placeOnce you've decided that you do, in fact, want to quit your job, you need to develop a plan that helps ensure your own stability and clarifies your next moves. Everyone's situation will be different when making a career change: Some people will begin a job search, while others have already secured full-time employment. Some people will strike out on their own as entrepreneurs or independent contractors; others will look to develop a new skill set altogether. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but regardless of your situation, you should have a plan in place. "Never leave a job without a plan. Make sure you have your next step sorted, and, ideally, build in a buffer so you have some time off between gigs to reboot," said Tim Toterhi, a business coach at Plotline Leadership. "If that's not possible, do the math. Make sure you have enough to cover expenses and healthcare during the transition." Ideally, you've already got something lined up whether that's a new job or a business plan. Quitting your job without a new job offer, at the very least, is a risky move. If you're still in the midst of a job search, consider staying in your current position until you secure full-time employment or even part-time work. If you're leaving to work on your small business full time, you should already have a comprehensive business plan that will guide the growth of your company well into the future. 3. Inform your manager or employerIf you're engaged in a job search or have attended an interview or two, it's not necessary to inform your boss. However, once you've decided to leave and put a specific transition plan in place, you should have an informal conversation about your intentions. Once job hunting turns into job-hopping, letting your boss know becomes imperative. Most people know to furnish your resignation along with two weeks' notice, but having an informal conversation with your boss is a good way to prepare them for the formal process. It also shows that you respect them enough to give them an advanced heads up, which can go a long way to preserving relationships. After all, you never know what will happen down the road. Old co-workers are often a source of new opportunity, so it's best to be kind and respectful. "Talk with your current boss and explain how much you enjoyed working with them and how much you have grown at the position/company," said Brittany Kline, personal finance expert for The Savvy Couple. "You also want to express [that] you want to help make the transition for the next hire … as easy as possible and what you can do to help." Once you've broached the subject with your boss, you can draft your formal resignation letter. 4. Send a formal resignation letter and two weeks' noticeYou've thought it over and decided that it's the right time to move on. You've put a concrete transition plan in place and discussed your intentions with your boss. The next step, submitting a formal resignation letter and two weeks' notice, makes things official. In addition to sending a formal resignation letter, you should double-check to see if your company has any additional guidelines on how to leave a position. "The professional way [to leave] would be to follow the protocol," Kline said. "Make sure you do everything properly if your company has a set of guidelines. Contacting human resources and making sure you know what the steps look like to leave your current position are huge." What is the best way to go about delivering your resignation, though? Should you just fire off an email and be done with it? Generally, the best option is to set up a face-to-face meeting, even if you already had an informal discussion with your boss. Again, professionalism and respect are key here. A face-to-face meeting shows that you appreciate the gravity of the situation and gives you another opportunity to offer your assistance in preparation for the upcoming transition. "Ask your boss for a meeting and have a typed resignation letter in hand," said Helen Godfrey, a career counselor and founder of The Authentic Path. "Be gracious. Focus on how you appreciated the opportunity to work at the company and how you have grown from your job." 5. Help prepare training materials for your replacementIf you want to leave on good terms, work to make the transition smooth for the company as well. Prepare training materials that will help your replacement hit the ground running. Any notes, instructions or tips you can leave for your replacement are helpful to get them up to speed. You can also offer to schedule a one-on-one meeting with your replacement prior to your last day. "Offer to help interview and train someone new. Essentially, if you want to leave on the best terms, offer to make the transition as seamless as possible," said Stephanie Dennis, career coach and host of the podcast Career Talk: Learn – Grow – Thrive. Just as you took the time to create a transition plan of your own, it's important to offer to be an integral part of your company's transition plan. There is no better training resource than the person who has done the job, so availing yourself to your company to prepare your own replacement is an invaluable offer. 6. Continue working as usual through your final dayWork hard until your resignation is official. It could be tempting to kick back and take it easy; after all, you're leaving the company, so what's the big deal? But your reputation is on the line, which is one of the most valuable assets you have. Keep doing great work through your final day, and your colleagues will remember you for it. That could be valuable in the future. "Don't think of your last days on the job as biding time. Focus on what you can contribute that goes beyond expectations," Toterhi said. "Refresh old relationships, lend a hand to that junior associate, and pull one last rabbit out of the hat for your boss. Think of yourself as a rock star. Go out on a high note and leave them wanting more." Completing all your pending projects and delivering high-quality work ensures that you'll leave a good impression on your boss and co-workers. In the modern business world, your network is more accessible than ever, so keeping your contacts pleased is key to future success. Moreover, it's the ethical thing to do. 7. Review benefits and paid time off informationFinally, you should review your employee handbook to ensure you understand everything you can about your benefits and other job perks as you leave. For example, how long does your insurance last once you resign? Do you get paid for unused paid time off and, if so, how much? These types of logistical considerations have a way of falling through the cracks, but doing your due diligence could make your life easier after you've left the company. "Check in with your insurance carrier, seeing when your insurance ends, double-checking your employee handbook on PTO paid out when you leave," said Lisa Fedrizzi, managing director, team lead of HR & talent at Cheer Partners. "Have all your information handy, or, if you are unsure, write all these questions down and be prepared to ask in your exit interview with HR. If HR does not do an exit interview, request one to confirm all your information." Mistakes to avoid when quittingThere are several common mistakes people make when leaving a job. These mistakes can ruin your reputation or plague your ability to successfully grow in your new role. Avoid these missteps in the final days of your job, and your transition should continue smoothly:
All good things come to an end, but be sure to end on good termsWhether your job is good, bad or ugly, leaving with grace and professionalism will serve you well. Planning ahead ensures you won't find yourself in an unstable position after leaving. Giving your boss advanced notice prior to your formal resignation shows respect and consideration. Working hard up until your final day and offering to help train your replacement also goes a long way to leaving on good terms. Burning bridges is never wise, especially in business. You never know where you might end up in the future, or who you might end up working with. If you're striking out on your own and launching your own business, your old company might even end up becoming a partner or a client. Even if you never benefit from leaving your company on good terms, you get the benefit of having an impeccable character, maintaining a positive reputation and taking the ethical approach to growing your career. |
| How Important Are Job References? Posted: 23 Jul 2019 04:50 AM PDT  During the interview process for any new job, your hiring manager will likely ask for a list of professional references. Although this may seem like a trivial matter, who you list as your references can have a big impact on your ability to land the job. It is important to carefully select relevant job references who are familiar with your work and can attest to your abilities. Contrary to what many job seekers may believe, most hiring managers will eventually contact your references. This typically occurs near the end of the hiring process or after a job offer has been extended. During a reference check, a potential employer is not necessarily looking to dig up dirt on you; they are, however, looking to verify the information you have given them and learn what it is like to work with you. While it is unlikely that a hiring manager will refuse to hire you based on one poor reference, it is not impossible. Therefore, it is important to choose references who can speak honestly about your skills and abilities. Hopefully, that honesty matches up with your claims. Sue Andrews, business and HR consultant at KIS Finance, said that employers need to know if your resume accurately represents your skills and experience, so they often rely on references to back up your claims. "Even if you have interviewed really well and passed any tests, you still need a positive reference to back this up," she said. "After all, the interviewer has probably only met you for a few hours, whilst a reference can comment on your performance and behavior over a much longer period of time and verify the facts." Why you need professional references to get a job (most of the time)While experts we interviewed had mixed opinions about whether you need references to get a job, most of them leaned toward yes. Since employers typically use references to make hiring decisions, a lack of professional references can hurt your chances of getting a job and can even lead an employer to choose another candidate instead of you. "References can help a hiring manager who is teetering between two candidates, affirm a gut feeling or possibly provide insight into a question mark," said Claudia Johnson, director of internal recruiting at professional search and staffing firm Addison Group. Although you should typically avoid personal references, they can be used in leu of professional references on select occasions. For example, if you don't have previous work experience, or your previous employer has a "no reference" policy, Andrews said you can use a character reference from a teacher, or someone else in a position of authority who knows you well. A list of credible references should always be a tool in one's job-hunting toolbox, but there is the slight possibility that your references may not be contacted, depending on the company you are applying to. "It may also be the company's policy not to ask for references," said Johnson. "I see this a lot with larger firms who may have other steps in place, such as certain tests and cross-department or role interviews." Regardless of the company's policies, it is still wise to have access to your professional references, just in case. When and how employers check your referencesAndrews said most employers will wait until they are at the final shortlisting stage before contacting references. When they do, she said, it is usually in writing or via email, but some employers may also call. According to Johnson, hiring managers will typically ask for three professional references, and the references you provide should each offer unique value to the employer. "Candidates should provide a mix of references, including someone they previously reported to, a peer, and/or somebody from a different department that they worked closely with," said Johnson. When employers speak with these references, they will be checking the claims in your resume and interview. Andrews said to resist the temptation to exaggerate your skills and experience, as it could backfire on you during this stage. What questions a hiring manager may ask your referencesThere are several questions a hiring manager can ask your references. According to Andrews, hiring managers typically verify how the reference knows you, then they move on to questions about your tenure. "They'll want to verify any information that you've provided, such as job titles, key responsibilities and potentially pay, to make sure that this stacks up against what you've told them," said Andrews. "They'll also want to check out any claims that you've made, such as projects that you've undertaken or results that you've delivered." They can ask questions related to your past job performance, employment dates, punctuality, strengths, weaknesses and ability to work as part of a team. They may even provide details on the job you're applying for and ask the reference if they think you would be a good fit. "A key question that most will ask is whether the person giving the reference would rehire you and why," said Andrews. "For this reason, it's always best to try to leave a job on good terms, even if you're leaving because you don't like working there, as you want to have left a positive impression behind." Who to list as your professional referencesAs Johnson said, you should include a mix of professional references who can emphasize your positive attributes. For example, a manager can attest to your punctuality and abilities to meet deadlines, whereas a co-worker can attest to your teamwork skills. A current or former client can speak on behalf of your customer service skills, and a supervisee can comment on your management abilities. Andrews said the best job references are from direct managers who know you well and can speak confidently and positively about your abilities. "You want someone who is familiar with your work and can talk knowledgeably about your achievements," Andrews said. "If possible, avoid asking for a reference from someone whose own written or verbal skills are lacking, as this could mean a less-than-enthusiastic reference." If you are applying for a new job without informing your current employer, it's OK to exclude their information from your reference list, at least until the final interview stages. "Once the new employer is at the final decision stage, they will probably want a reference from your most recent manager," said Andrews. "In this case, you can ask for a firm job offer to be made first, which can be subject to a good reference." Why bad references can hurt your job prospectsIt is important to ask someone for their permission before adding them to your reference list, and remember to give them a heads-up when you are applying for a new job. Inform them of the position you are applying for and which qualities you would like to be highlighted. Johnson said this notification will prepare your reference for what's to come, minimizing the risk of being caught off guard and accidentally giving you a less-than-stellar reference. A "bad reference" is often imagined as a spiteful past employer who says slanderous things about you. However, due to employee defamation laws, it is uncommon for previous employers to spread negative lies about candidates. Instead, a bad reference is typically someone who is ill-prepared, quiet or unresponsive. If a reference speaks in vague terms or gives short responses, it may reflect poorly on you. According to Andrews, most hiring managers will understand if a reference isn't as positive as you had hoped, so long as you have a genuine explanation for the discrepancies. "Maybe you just didn't get along with a particular manager, or perhaps they are still aggrieved that you left the organization," said Andrews. "However, if there's a pattern to the references, such as reports of poor performance or being difficult to manage, then this will be very damaging to your job prospects." Therefore, it is important to choose your job references carefully. Andrews advised that prospects who foresee any potential issues with a reference or past employer should always inform the hiring manager upfront, preventing surprises down the line. |
| How to Accept Mobile Credit Card Payments from Anywhere Posted: 23 Jul 2019 04:50 AM PDT 
As customers act, small businesses react. With customers wanting to make purchases quickly and easily, small businesses are turning to mobile credit card readers to make it easier for customers to pay from anywhere with just a swipe. By coupling your smartphone or tablet with a credit card reading add-on, it's easy to process transactions – whether you're at a conference, a client's remote work site or simply at home. You can even take your products on the road to trade shows and accept payments at the show by using your mobile device and mobile credit card reader. You don't have to bring a bulky credit card terminal to every event, as your mobile phone and the add-on device take up minimal space and can allow your business to make money. It's a simple process that helps make payment processing easier for small businesses. Editor's note: Looking for a credit card processor for your business? Fill out the below questionnaire to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs. But the market is crowded with a dizzying array of options for merchants looking for an easier way to accept credit cards. Learning how to accept mobile credit card payments isn't overly challenging, but it requires an understanding of the process and the major players in the market. It's important to take the necessary steps when seeking the right mobile card reader for your business. 1. Own a businessIt might sound obvious, but most mobile credit card payment providers require applicants to prove they have a business before they can sign up to use the service. The good news for business owners is that these platforms were designed with small businesses in mind. That means virtually any business of any size can get approved whether you own a boutique, run a handyman service or sell wool socks you knit in your spare time. While a mobile credit card processor makes the most sense for businesses that move around or host events, that's not the only type of business that can benefit from the device. [Are you looking for the right credit card processor for your business? Check out our reviews and best picks.] "Small business owners, street vendors, and businesses that set up at events throughout the year can benefit greatly from mobile processors, but brick-and-mortar stores should still consider it if they want the option of paying away from the cash register as well," said Nathan Grant, credit industry analyst at Credit Card Insider. The smallest businesses have the most to gain by opting for mobile credit card readers, which are cheaper and far more portable than traditional options. Businesses that don't accept credit cards are virtually guaranteed to miss out on some sales. If you own a small business, you've checked off the first step of the process to obtain a mobile credit card reader. Again, it seems obvious, but it's important you follow the guidelines and rules to ensure you're given a card reader. 2. Pick a mobile deviceBefore you pick up a mobile credit card reader, you'll need at least one compatible mobile device. But don't worry – there are options for virtually every mobile platform, including iOS, Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone. One major benefit of modern credit card readers is that they work with the devices you already own. That means there's no need to carry around additional hardware, aside from the reader add-on itself. Most credit card readers attach to your device via the headphone jack or charger port and are small enough to fit in your pocket. If you'd prefer to process payments without a separate adapter, many services allow users to complete a transaction by manually entering credit card information into any internet-connected phone. But for the sake of convenience, lower fees and privacy, most small businesses should spring for a card reader add-on. Some services require the use of a mobile app. Downloading that app will allow you to properly use either an internet-connected mobile device or the mobile credit card reader. Each business is a little different with how it uses its payment gateway, so be sure to know what offering you're receiving. Most devices accept both debit cards and credit cards, but for the sake of clarity, it's not a bad idea to confirm with the company before purchasing the processor. Some customers may prefer to pay with a debit card, so it's helpful to ensure there aren't any added complications with using different card types. The process for paying may also be different with a debit card. Make sure you know the intricacies of each payment type to better understand the potential customer experience. 3. Pick a credit card processing companyChoosing the right service for your business is the most complicated part of the process. You'll have to include the startup costs, fees and compatibility in your business plan. The best credit card processing companies offer competitive transaction fees, a fast and free application process, and a high approval rate. Many of the leading services offer similar functionality, but fees and other costs vary widely. And some lack a few basic features, like the ability to capture a written signature or void transactions directly from your mobile device. "The primary differences between traditional processors and mobile processors are the costs and fees associated, which depend on which types of payment you want to be able to accept for your business," Grant said. For small businesses, fees are a critical consideration. Will your business save money by offering transactions through mobile credit card readers, or will the added convenience for customers hurt the business's financial bottom line? If your business can't find a way to use a mobile credit card reader, it might be worth using more traditional credit card processing solutions. Grant offered a solution for small businesses worried about the fees associated with a mobile card reader: "If you want to be able to offer mobile payment methods but worry it could cut into your business, consider setting a minimum payment for credit purchases." Let's say you run a local candy shop, and you're at a community event downtown. Consider requiring a minimum purchase of $10 if a customer wants to pay using a credit card. This way, the fees for your mobile card reader will only apply if a customer at the event buys $10 or more worth of product. You can accept cash for all purchases under $10. If fees are a concern, there are ways to work around them to better serve your business. When it comes to selecting the best credit card processing service, it's important to look at the fees each company offers. It's also important to look at the different features each company offers. Find a credit card processing company that best lines up with your business's needs and then make a decision on which company to use. 4. Secure your deviceBefore you process your first credit card payment, take a few minutes to ensure your device is secure and all software is updated. That includes checking to make sure you have installed the latest updates to your mobile operating system. Only install apps from trusted sources. Apps that you download from the Apple App Store, Google Play, BlackBerry World or Windows Phone Store are probably fine; apps downloaded from elsewhere on the internet may not be. During business hours, consider keeping the device you use for mobile transactions locked with a password. If the device is lost or stolen, you'll rest easy knowing your data is safe. Keeping data safe is an often-overlooked aspect of using mobile credit card readers, but it should be an important thought for businesses. If your mobile card reader gets hacked, the ensuing fallout could damage your small business's reputation. Always work to protect your customer data. Recently, 7-Eleven Japan dealt with a mobile payment processing issue. The company launched a mobile payment app, but the app had a flaw and a hacker was able to make $500,000 worth of purchases on the cards of roughly 900 customers. Security should be a priority when accepting payments via your mobile device. 5. Set up shopYou're almost there. Most services will ship you a free card-reader attachment for your mobile device when you sign up. Once you've received your reader, you'll probably have to download a corresponding app for your device. Each app is different, but most will have to be set up. You will likely be able to specify whether to display a field for tips and prompt customers to enter their email address, among other options. If you're taking the credit card reader to an event as your main way of accepting payments, test it out before attending the event. Losing out on sales because you didn't set up your payment processor correctly would make for a negative event. Avoid that frustration by taking the time to properly set up and test your device before accepting payments from customers. Make sure customers can pay without issue. 6. Promote your new mobile credit card payment optionWhat good is having a new mobile payment option if nobody knows about it? Potential customers might steer clear of your business if they think it isn't equipped to accept credit cards. You want them to know that it's easy to pay for your products. Make sure to mention that you're now accepting credit cards. And if customers visit your place of business, put up a sign explaining the new payment option. You can also use your website and social media outlets to spread the word, especially if you're attending events or trade shows. Share that you'll accept credit cards at the event to better appeal to customers. The bottom lineMobile credit card readers can be a good investment for businesses, especially businesses that host or attend events frequently. When finding the right mobile credit card processor for your business, scrutinize general pricing, fees and security measures. The goal of accepting credit card payments on your mobile phone is to make it easier for customers to pay from anywhere. If you keep that goal in mind while also aiming to reduce costs and increase data security, your business will be in a good place. Additional reporting by Brett Nuckles. |
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